Volga-Dnepr Airlines, a Russian cargo airline, previously owned the largest fleet of Antonov An-124 aircraft globally. An-124 is a massive cargo plane nicknamed "Condor" due to its wingspan resembling that of a bird. It was designed in the 1980s by the Antonov design bureau. The An-124 holds the title of the world's largest civil cargo aircraft.
By Abhijeet
The Antonov boasts an impressive cargo capacity, being able to carry up to 150 tonnes (depending on the variant) of oversized and super-heavy cargo. Unfortunately, due to sanctions imposed on Russia following the Ukraine invasion, Volga-Dnepr's An-124 fleet has limited operations. One of its An-124 aircraft was seized by the Canadian government in Toronto last year and is currently the subject of a legal dispute.
A Volga-Dnepr-owned Antonov An-124 aircraft that has been grounded at Toronto Pearson Airport (IATA Coad - YYZ), Canada, since the beginning of the war in the nation is set to be "confiscated" by Ukraine.
Following a visit to Canada by the Ukrainian government to meet with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister Christa Freeland, the action is part of a new set of Canadian sanctions on Russia.
Recently, Ukrainian prime minister Denys Shmyhal said: “A new package of sanctions against Russia from Canada. Particularly against the Volga-Dnieper company. Preparing to confiscate the An-124 aircraft and other assets of the aggressor in Canada and transfer them to the benefit of Ukraine.”
Since February 27, 2022, the An-124 (RA-82078) has been grounded at Toronto Pearson Airport due to limitations placed on Russian aircraft by the Canadian government in reaction to the conflict. The An-124 was ordered to be seized by the Canadian government in June of last year, with the understanding that it would thereafter be turned over to Ukraine. In response, the Russian government condemned Canada's decision to confiscate the aircraft as "shameless theft." Subsequently, Volga-Dnepr is said to have written a letter to Canadian officials requesting a peaceful resolution of the conflict, but threatening legal action in the event that no compromise could be reached.
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