Antonov An-22 Antei

08 Jan 2026 · © Unknown

The An-22’s contra-rotating propellers and immense size make it visually and acoustically unique. This particular airframe is preserved outdoors, likely at the Technik Museum Speyer in Germany.

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Aircraft

An-22 Antei AN22

Classic Antonov design in blue and white

Manufacturer

Antonov

Insights

Aviation History

The Antonov An-22 'Antei' is the world’s largest turboprop-powered aircraft and was designed as a Soviet strategic airlifter. Only a small number were built; it set multiple records in the 1960s and 1970s for largest airlift and speed for its weight class.

Fleet Rarity

Extremely rare, fewer than a dozen left in any form; most retired, a handful preserved. Last in military service in Russia and Ukraine.

Record Flights

Set multiple records for airlift payload and non-stop distance for propeller-driven aircraft; operational routes included missions across Russia, Europe, and Africa.

Safety & Events

No major high-profile incidents in recent years. Known for operating humanitarian and military missions. Multiple units preserved in museums.

Future Outlook

Mostly preserved in museums or static display. Rarely, a functional example may appear at airshows.

Specifications

4 × Kuznetsov NK-12MA turboprop engines

Engine

64.4 meters

Wingspan

57.9 meters

Length

5,000 kilometers (fully loaded)

Range

650 kilometers per hour

Speed

Up to 80,000 kilograms cargo, or approximately 29 crew and passengers

Capacity

250,000 kilograms

MTOW

12.53 meters

Height

Each engine produces 15,000 shp (shaft horsepower)

Thrust

Up to 125 dB (not ICAO certified for modern standards, known as one of the loudest turboprops)

Noise

No registration visible in the image. Aircraft is not currently operational – museum exhibit.