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Nearly $300 million is needed to finish the construction.
Back in the Soviet times, Antonov had plans to build a minimum of ten such ercord-holding cargo aircraft, but an ambitious space program, for which Mriya had been designed, was curtailed.
For 29 years, the unfinished An-225 aircraft, the twin sister of the legendary Mriya that successfully hauls oversized loads across the globe has been awaiting construction completion, according to RFE/RL's Ukrainian service.
"As a museum exhibit in the middle of a huge hangar, stands a fuselage that has been preserved in perfect condition. The aircraft's frame and tail have also been built, now standing idle at the Antonov's workshop. Inside the unfinished Mriya one can also see parts of its structural units," the report says.
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Back in the Soviet times, Antonov had plans to build a minimum of ten such ercord-holding cargo aircraft, but an ambitious space program, for which Mriya had been designed, was curtailed.
"Today, Mriya is 70 percent ready. Antonov's specialists and designers are ready to complete the construction withina few years, that's if they secure funding. In order for the second Ukrainian Mriya to take off, nearky $300 million is needed, however no one can name the exact amount," the report says.T
New equipment is supposed to be installed as well as modern digital flight devices.
For several years already, the talks have been ongoing with China on the completion of the unique aircraft. At the same time, Antonov assures that the An-225 will not be sold. The Company is now seeking ways toward the plane's joint use with foreign partners.