Antonov Airlines has flown four Apache AH-64E Attack Helicopters from Phoenix to Hindan Airforce Base on behalf of Boeing.
An AN-124-100 transported the helicopters, which had a total payload of 39 tonnes including their dismantled rotor blades, from Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport to the Indian air base.
Antonov and Boeing engineers collaborated closely on mission planning in real-time during the loading process.
Jon Roland, Boeing program manager says: “The Antonov Airlines team was responsive and willing to support deadlines while applying for the complex overflight permits required for military cargo. Antonov Airlines partnered with us to secure the required clearance and permissions, creating a cooperative environment to ensure smooth delivery.”
Amnon Ehrlich, commercial director Antonov Airlines USA says: “We worked out how to best use the available space during loading to safely transport the cargo. We also took into consideration the high summer temperatures in Arizona while planning the move. The loading started in the early hours to avoid the high temperatures. Following a night-time departure, the mission was completed 24 hours later.”
