A Dream That Took Flight… and Captured the World’s Heart
Ukraine is famous not only for its rich culture, Cossack history, and delicious borscht — but also for amazing aviation.
One of the greatest engineering achievements in the world was created in Kyiv: the AN-225 “Mriya”, the largest and most powerful aircraft ever built.
A Bit of Tech Magic:
Length: 84 meters
Wingspan: 88.4 meters (almost the size of a football field!)
Maximum takeoff weight: over 640 tons
Engines: 6 massive engines
Built by Antonov Design Bureau in the 1980s, Kyiv, Ukraine
Why was it built?
The AN-225 was originally designed to transport the Soviet space shuttle “Buran”. It carried rocket parts and the shuttle itself between launch sites.
Later, it became a global cargo legend, transporting huge turbines, trains, humanitarian aid, and even medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What happened to “Mriya”?
During Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the AN-225 was destroyed during fighting at Hostomel Airport near Kyiv.
It was a heartbreaking loss — not just for Ukraine, but for aviation lovers around the world.
But here’s the good news:
Antonov has announced plans to rebuild the AN-225 using preserved parts and modern technology.
Amazing Facts:
Set 240 world records
Its cargo bay was so large that a truck could drive inside
First flight: December 21, 1988
Carried the heaviest air cargo ever: 253 tons!
Why does it matter?
The AN-225 “Mriya” (which means “dream” in Ukrainian) was not just a plane — it was a symbol of Ukrainian strength, innovation, and pride. It proved that Ukrainian engineers can create something no one else in the world could.
And now, a new “Mriya” may rise again.
