Chapman Freeborn and NATCO Global Transport Solutions & Projects have successfully coordinated an Antonov AN-225 cargo charter to transport a 170-ton load from Switzerland to Bahrain.
The joint operation to move a gigantic GT13E2 gas turbine rotor, a generator rotor and other outsize technical equipment to the Middle East was the first time the world’s largest fixed-wing aircraft has visited Zurich Airport.
It is the second time that Chapman Freeborn has brought the giant Antonov AN-225 Mriya freighter to Europe in recent months. In June, the global aircraft charter specialist delivered a 140-ton load to EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg – representing another first for an AN-225 operation.
The project in Zurich was closely observed by Pedro Oliveira from NATCO and Eugen Renfer from Covio SA Aviation Services, Chapman Freeborn’s representative in Switzerland.
The six hour loading process involved both the AN-225’s ramp-loading apparatus in addition to two heavy-lift cranes. The largest of the pieces handled was a gas turbine rotor weighing 97.5 tons and measuring over 13 metres in length.
Following the loading of the cargo, the aircraft departed on schedule and flew to Bahrain via Athens and Cairo for refuelling.
Commenting on the successful operation, Eugen Renfer said:
“For Chapman Freeborn, coordinating outsize cargo charters is a daily occurrence and we have extensive experience managing complex operations. Nevertheless, projects involving the world’s largest aircraft are always a very impressive spectacle.
“We are very proud to work with our partners to ensure the smooth running of this transportation project. The success is down to the close coordination and commitment of all of the parties involved.”
About Chapman Freeborn
Chapman Freeborn was established in the UK in 1973 and the group now comprises of over 30 offices around the world.
The company specialises in the charter and lease of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft for a wide ranging client base including major international organisations, NGOs, multinational corporations, governments, and a host of industries around the globe.
Chapman Freeborn is dedicated to adding real value to clients and suppliers. The company was voted Air Cargo Charter Broker of the Year at the World Air Cargo Awards for six consecutive years. Industry publication Air Cargo News also named Chapman Freeborn as its Cargo Charter Broker of the Year 2012 and 2013.
In addition to cargo charters and on board courier (OBC) services, Chapman Freeborn offers specialist passenger services including private jet and helicopter charters for executive travel and large aircraft for crew rotations and international group travel.
Chapman Freeborn has over 450 employees worldwide and is currently ranked 32nd in the Sunday Times HSBC Top Track 250 list of Britain’s biggest mid-market private companies.
For more information visit: chapmanfreeborn.aero