Antonov Airlines recently transported a bladed rotor, which is typically used in power generation, from Ghana to India and back again.
The task involved the carrier and Rhenus Project Logistics USA — both members of The Heavy Lift Group (THLG) — chartering one of Antonov Airlines’ AN-124 aircraft to carry the 54-tonne 10.50m long, 3.89m wide, 4.13m high rotor to India for repair works, before moving it back to Ghana.

Antonov Airlines said it developed technical instructions and Rhenus Project Logistics USA assisted the client in redesigning the skid to ensure the bladed rotor fitted inside the fuselage.

The carrier also used loading equipment designed by its in-house engineering team, while cranes used for loading and unloading were arranged by Rhenus Project Logistics USA “to ensure the highest levels of safety for the teams and cargo”.

Vladyslav Ishchuk, commercial executive at Antonov Airlines, said: “This transport operation required well-coordinated preparation and actions from both partners to fly such outsized and heavy cargo safely.”

“Antonov Airlines showcased its flexibility by providing the AN-124 aircraft on the required dates during an extremely busy period for the customer to minimise any disruption that could have been faced.”

Ritesh Nair, global sales director at Rhenus Project Logistics USA, added: “Rhenus Project Logistics USA and Antonov Airlines have an association going back over 15 years, which has involved multiple charter performances for mutual clients and is a testimony to the strength and expertise members of THLG bring to their clients.”