Antonov An-22 facts for kids

Antonov An-22, a giant cargo plane.

The Antonov An-22 (also known as the Cock by NATO) is a super-sized Soviet cargo airplane. It was built to carry very heavy and large items. Both regular airlines and the military used this powerful aircraft. It first flew in 1965. The Soviet airline Aeroflot began using it for flights in 1967. Later, a newer and even bigger plane, the An-124, took over its military jobs.

About the Antonov An-22

The Antonov An-22 is one of the largest propeller-driven airplanes ever built. It was designed to transport huge and heavy cargo. This included military vehicles, equipment, and supplies. It could also carry humanitarian aid to places that were hard to reach.

A Giant of the Skies

When the An-22 first flew, it was the biggest transport aircraft in the world. It has four powerful engines. Each engine has two propellers that spin in opposite directions. This design helps the plane create a lot of thrust. It allows the An-22 to take off with very heavy loads.

What it Carried

The An-22 was designed to carry a lot of different things. It could transport large trucks, tanks, and even parts of rockets. Its huge cargo bay made it perfect for moving oversized items. It played an important role in moving military equipment for the Soviet Union. It also helped with civilian transport needs.

First Flights and Use

The An-22 made its first flight in 1965. It was a big step forward in aviation. Two years later, in 1967, the Soviet airline Aeroflot started using it. This showed that the plane was not just for military use. It could also help with civilian cargo transport. The An-22 was known for its ability to land on rough runways. This meant it could deliver goods to many different places.

Images for kids

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  First prototype of the An-22, pictured in 1991 at Gostomel Airport.

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  An-22. Front view

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  An-22. Bottom view

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  Soviet 1965 post stamp showcasing the An-22 success at the Paris Air Show.

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  Drawing of the An-22's proposed amphibious variant

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  Side profile

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  An-22 of the Russian Air Force

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  View of an An-22 from behind.

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  Dorsally projected diagram of the Antonov An-22 Antheus.

See also

In Spanish: Antonov An-22 para niños