1 00:00:01,802 --> 00:00:05,771 Narrator: Weighing over 859,000 pounds fully loaded, 2 00:00:05,773 --> 00:00:10,275 This is one of the biggest heavy cargo planes in the world -- 3 00:00:10,277 --> 00:00:13,779 The antonov 124 ruslan. 4 00:00:13,781 --> 00:00:19,485 Its mission is to haul freight weighing nearly 265,000 pounds 5 00:00:19,487 --> 00:00:23,322 Thousands of miles to any place on earth. 6 00:00:26,127 --> 00:00:28,694 What design innovations allow engineers 7 00:00:28,696 --> 00:00:32,664 To build an aircraft this large, 8 00:00:32,666 --> 00:00:36,301 And what technologies allow the antonov 124 9 00:00:36,303 --> 00:00:39,304 To transport mega loads of cargo? 10 00:00:39,306 --> 00:00:41,540 We unlock the engineering secrets 11 00:00:41,542 --> 00:00:46,545 That make this aircraft the king of heavy lifters. 12 00:00:46,547 --> 00:00:50,883 From its four super-sized thrust-boosting engines 13 00:00:50,885 --> 00:00:53,619 To a tough skeleton forged from light, 14 00:00:53,621 --> 00:00:57,489 Yet super-strong materials, 15 00:00:57,491 --> 00:01:02,027 To reveal what it takes to build the ultimate super-plane. 16 00:01:05,099 --> 00:01:08,100 -- Captions by vitac -- www.Vitac.Com 17 00:01:08,102 --> 00:01:11,136 Captions paid for by discovery communications 18 00:01:12,239 --> 00:01:17,676 Kourou in french guiana, south america -- 19 00:01:17,678 --> 00:01:21,013 Home to the european spaceport, 20 00:01:21,015 --> 00:01:22,915 From which the european space agency 21 00:01:22,917 --> 00:01:25,184 Launches all of its satellites. 22 00:01:28,255 --> 00:01:32,224 Up to 12 rockets blast off from this launch pad every year. 23 00:01:34,762 --> 00:01:38,063 They carry into orbit telecommunication, weather, 24 00:01:38,065 --> 00:01:44,336 And observation satellites critical for 21st century life 25 00:01:44,338 --> 00:01:47,639 Back on earth. 26 00:01:47,641 --> 00:01:50,042 French guiana's equatorial position 27 00:01:50,044 --> 00:01:53,345 Makes use of the earth's slingshot effect, 28 00:01:53,347 --> 00:01:54,680 Which is the energy created 29 00:01:54,682 --> 00:01:57,850 By the planet's rotation around its axis. 30 00:01:57,852 --> 00:02:01,620 This helps rockets get into space faster using less fuel. 31 00:02:03,958 --> 00:02:07,593 But the satellites aren't actually built here. 32 00:02:07,595 --> 00:02:09,061 Prior to a launch, 33 00:02:09,063 --> 00:02:12,631 Each satellite must be shipped to kourou already constructed. 34 00:02:15,836 --> 00:02:19,271 This high resolution earth observation satellite, 35 00:02:19,273 --> 00:02:25,110 Costing over $100 million, is the next craft bound for space. 36 00:02:25,112 --> 00:02:27,179 It's under construction at this factory 37 00:02:27,181 --> 00:02:32,017 In toulouse, France, 4,163 miles away. 38 00:02:32,853 --> 00:02:35,687 Workers assemble the satellite in this dust-free, 39 00:02:35,689 --> 00:02:39,658 Temperature-controlled laboratory. 40 00:02:39,660 --> 00:02:43,262 Project manager sophie lay needs the satellite in kourou 41 00:02:43,264 --> 00:02:46,932 Within the next 48 hours in preparation for its launch. 42 00:02:46,934 --> 00:02:49,968 Reliable transportation is a unique challenge. 43 00:03:07,054 --> 00:03:10,355 The satellite ships in a custom-built sealed container 44 00:03:10,357 --> 00:03:12,191 That prevents outside contaminants 45 00:03:12,193 --> 00:03:14,059 From entering and temperature changes 46 00:03:14,061 --> 00:03:17,529 From ruining its sensitive components. 47 00:03:17,531 --> 00:03:20,766 Transporting this massive box to kourou by truck or ship 48 00:03:20,768 --> 00:03:23,168 Could take weeks and put the satellite 49 00:03:23,170 --> 00:03:25,604 At risk of damage or malfunction. 50 00:03:25,606 --> 00:03:27,906 Sophie's best option is to fly it 51 00:03:27,908 --> 00:03:30,342 To the launch site in a cargo plane. 52 00:03:34,181 --> 00:03:38,483 Yet hauling a box this large is a huge engineering challenge. 53 00:03:40,054 --> 00:03:46,725 It measures 14 feet wide, 13 feet tall, and 28 feet long. 54 00:03:49,063 --> 00:03:51,396 Together with the satellite support equipment, 55 00:03:51,398 --> 00:03:57,369 The total cargo load weighs nearly 93,000 pounds. 56 00:03:57,371 --> 00:04:01,940 The solution is this -- 57 00:04:01,942 --> 00:04:05,377 The antonov 124 ruslan. 58 00:04:05,379 --> 00:04:10,315 This revolutionary cargo aircraft is 226 feet long, 59 00:04:10,317 --> 00:04:13,418 It has wings that span more than three tennis courts, 60 00:04:13,420 --> 00:04:19,124 And a huge 35,314 square-foot cargo bay. 61 00:04:19,126 --> 00:04:23,595 This mega-plane transports more super-sized commercial cargo 62 00:04:23,597 --> 00:04:26,898 Than almost any other aircraft in the world. 63 00:04:26,900 --> 00:04:29,635 The plane is built with innovative technology 64 00:04:29,637 --> 00:04:31,470 Hidden under the hood 65 00:04:31,472 --> 00:04:35,574 To carry the world's heaviest air-freight. 66 00:04:35,576 --> 00:04:38,076 Its lightweight fuselage is strong enough 67 00:04:38,078 --> 00:04:43,215 To carry nearly 265,000 pounds of cargo. 68 00:04:43,217 --> 00:04:45,250 An ingenious kneeling mechanism 69 00:04:45,252 --> 00:04:49,187 Helps load extra-large shipments. 70 00:04:49,189 --> 00:04:52,758 Powerful and efficient engines propel the plane further 71 00:04:52,760 --> 00:04:54,760 On a single tank of fuel. 72 00:04:57,631 --> 00:05:02,934 All these elements combine to make the antonov 124 ruslan 73 00:05:02,936 --> 00:05:05,370 The ultimate cargo plane. 74 00:05:08,809 --> 00:05:13,545 4:00 p.M. -- Toulouse airport, France. 75 00:05:13,547 --> 00:05:18,850 The 124's flight crew prepares the aircraft for takeoff. 76 00:05:18,852 --> 00:05:22,087 Load master oleksiy pervishko and his team 77 00:05:22,089 --> 00:05:25,857 Must ensure the plane is in top condition to fly. 78 00:05:41,709 --> 00:05:45,310 Ahead lies a grueling mission. 79 00:05:45,312 --> 00:05:47,179 First, the crew must load 80 00:05:47,181 --> 00:05:51,416 The nearly 93,000-pound satellite cargo. 81 00:05:51,418 --> 00:05:54,353 They must then fly the 124 nonstop 82 00:05:54,355 --> 00:05:59,825 Nearly 4,500 miles across the atlantic ocean 83 00:05:59,827 --> 00:06:04,763 To reach cayenne, french guiana 10 hours after leaving France. 84 00:06:06,033 --> 00:06:11,370 Next, the crew must unload the cargo onto trucks. 85 00:06:11,372 --> 00:06:13,939 These vehicles will transport the satellite one hour 86 00:06:13,941 --> 00:06:15,774 Northwest to kourou, 87 00:06:15,776 --> 00:06:18,377 Where engineers will prepare it for launch. 88 00:06:21,582 --> 00:06:23,248 The antonov's unique feature 89 00:06:23,250 --> 00:06:27,853 Is its 35,314 square-foot cargo bay. 90 00:06:27,855 --> 00:06:31,223 That's 5,297 square feet bigger 91 00:06:31,225 --> 00:06:33,725 Than those of many rival heavy lifters. 92 00:06:33,727 --> 00:06:39,030 It's large enough to carry 50 average-size cars. 93 00:06:39,032 --> 00:06:42,300 To create this much room, the antonov's designers placed 94 00:06:42,302 --> 00:06:47,038 The aircraft's 240-foot-long wings on top of the fuselage. 95 00:06:49,843 --> 00:06:53,879 But building an aircraft body strong enough to carry this load 96 00:06:53,881 --> 00:06:57,983 Is a huge engineering feat. 97 00:06:57,985 --> 00:07:02,053 The wings of most commercial aircrafts connect in a wingbox 98 00:07:02,055 --> 00:07:05,323 In the center of the fuselage. 99 00:07:05,325 --> 00:07:09,628 This strong box supports the aircraft's body. 100 00:07:09,630 --> 00:07:12,998 By positioning the wingbox above the fuselage, 101 00:07:13,000 --> 00:07:16,268 The antonov gains a larger cargo hold, 102 00:07:16,270 --> 00:07:19,938 But risks catastrophic structural failure. 103 00:07:19,940 --> 00:07:22,007 The antonov's wings, four engines, 104 00:07:22,009 --> 00:07:27,813 And full fuel tanks weigh over 330,000 pounds. 105 00:07:27,815 --> 00:07:32,484 This huge load puts massive stress on the fuselage. 106 00:07:32,486 --> 00:07:34,386 If the aircraft is airborne, 107 00:07:34,388 --> 00:07:39,324 The dead weight of nearly 265,000 pounds of cargo 108 00:07:39,326 --> 00:07:41,426 Could rip the plane apart. 109 00:07:44,097 --> 00:07:46,465 To solve the problem, engineers must strengthen 110 00:07:46,467 --> 00:07:50,602 The fuselage ribs directly beneath the 124's wings. 111 00:07:52,840 --> 00:07:55,774 On traditional aircraft, engineers rivet together 112 00:07:55,776 --> 00:08:00,879 Thin strips of aluminum to build tough support frames. 113 00:08:00,881 --> 00:08:03,148 But the size and weight of the 124 114 00:08:03,150 --> 00:08:05,250 Could overstress the rivet line 115 00:08:05,252 --> 00:08:09,321 And put the plane at risk of structural collapse. 116 00:08:09,323 --> 00:08:12,090 So, here, at the antonov aircraft facility 117 00:08:12,092 --> 00:08:14,392 In kiev, ukraine, 118 00:08:14,394 --> 00:08:17,696 Vitaliy zatsekovniy's team builds lightweight 119 00:08:17,698 --> 00:08:20,899 Mega-components designed for maximum strength. 120 00:08:23,570 --> 00:08:26,571 Workers fabricate super-sized load-bearing parts 121 00:08:26,573 --> 00:08:29,107 For the antonov from these solid blocks 122 00:08:29,109 --> 00:08:33,512 Of aerospace aluminum called billets. 123 00:08:33,514 --> 00:08:36,214 The special alloy is as strong as steel, 124 00:08:36,216 --> 00:08:38,149 But three times lighter. 125 00:08:48,362 --> 00:08:51,997 High-powered, computer -controlled water-jet cutters 126 00:08:51,999 --> 00:08:55,567 Carve each 10-inch-thick 16-foot-long billet 127 00:08:55,569 --> 00:08:57,202 Into rough shapes. 128 00:09:00,407 --> 00:09:04,376 Next, special machines cut way the excess metal 129 00:09:04,378 --> 00:09:06,511 According to a precise design 130 00:09:06,513 --> 00:09:10,115 To make each component even lighter. 131 00:09:10,117 --> 00:09:12,317 The finished piece is a perfect balance 132 00:09:12,319 --> 00:09:14,219 Between strength and weight. 133 00:09:16,657 --> 00:09:19,624 Workers bolt together up to four cut billets 134 00:09:19,626 --> 00:09:23,061 To make a special load-bearing structure called a frame. 135 00:09:27,000 --> 00:09:29,067 Engineers install six primary 136 00:09:29,069 --> 00:09:34,072 Reinforcing frames directly beneath the antonov's wings. 137 00:09:34,074 --> 00:09:35,941 Each frame can support the weight of more 138 00:09:35,943 --> 00:09:39,711 Than one million pounds. 139 00:09:39,713 --> 00:09:41,880 That's more than double the combined weight 140 00:09:41,882 --> 00:09:47,052 Of the aircraft's wings, engines, and full fuel tanks. 141 00:09:47,054 --> 00:09:49,721 For extra strength when carrying heavy cargo, 142 00:09:49,723 --> 00:09:54,359 Engineers install another 117 secondary frames. 143 00:09:56,330 --> 00:09:59,197 They encase this skeleton with aluminum panels, 144 00:09:59,199 --> 00:10:03,234 Machined with integrated reinforcing ridges. 145 00:10:03,236 --> 00:10:06,538 These panels spread the load forces across the aircraft. 146 00:10:06,540 --> 00:10:11,576 ♪ 147 00:10:11,578 --> 00:10:18,617 At toulouse airport, oleksiy's team finishes prepping the 124. 148 00:10:18,619 --> 00:10:21,319 The monster plane is ready to be loaded up 149 00:10:21,321 --> 00:10:24,222 With its precious satellite. 150 00:10:24,224 --> 00:10:27,559 What technology makes it possible for this aircraft 151 00:10:27,561 --> 00:10:31,396 To carry giant loads of cargo, 152 00:10:31,398 --> 00:10:33,431 And what is the secret that keeps this plane 153 00:10:33,433 --> 00:10:37,636 Airborne for thousands of miles without needing to refuel? 154 00:10:37,638 --> 00:10:43,908 ♪ 155 00:10:54,855 --> 00:10:58,089 Narrator: In toulouse, France, the ground crew prepares 156 00:10:58,091 --> 00:11:00,792 The antonov 124 cargo plane 157 00:11:00,794 --> 00:11:06,331 To fly a $100 million satellite nearly 4,500 miles 158 00:11:06,333 --> 00:11:11,569 To kourou spaceport in french guiana for launch. 159 00:11:11,571 --> 00:11:13,872 At the satellite factory in toulouse, 160 00:11:13,874 --> 00:11:17,042 A team lifts the 22,000-pound sealed box 161 00:11:17,044 --> 00:11:21,079 Containing the precious cargo onto the back of a low loader. 162 00:11:23,817 --> 00:11:26,651 The convoy has just four hours to deliver the box 163 00:11:26,653 --> 00:11:28,286 To toulouse airport. 164 00:11:30,590 --> 00:11:33,558 The pressure is on as the 124's crew 165 00:11:33,560 --> 00:11:35,727 Prepares the aircraft for loading. 166 00:11:39,800 --> 00:11:43,001 The ruslan's rear doors swing open to load cargos 167 00:11:43,003 --> 00:11:45,070 Up to 12 feet tall 168 00:11:45,072 --> 00:11:49,407 And 21 feet wide into the back of the plane. 169 00:11:53,613 --> 00:11:58,950 But this satellite shipping box is over 13 feet tall. 170 00:11:58,952 --> 00:12:02,721 So, how will the antonov team get this oversized box 171 00:12:02,723 --> 00:12:04,322 Into the plane? 172 00:12:09,096 --> 00:12:14,065 The answer is due to its innovative technology. 173 00:12:23,677 --> 00:12:28,179 The 124 has a second huge loading door. 174 00:12:28,181 --> 00:12:30,915 Three giant hinges connect the nose section 175 00:12:30,917 --> 00:12:33,284 To the top of the plane's fuselage. 176 00:12:35,288 --> 00:12:39,390 A pair of hydraulic rams pushes the nose forward. 177 00:12:39,392 --> 00:12:41,426 In less than 60 seconds, 178 00:12:41,428 --> 00:12:45,563 The front of the antonov completely opens up 179 00:12:45,565 --> 00:12:52,303 To reveal a doorway 21 feet wide and 14 feet tall, 180 00:12:52,305 --> 00:12:56,808 Just big enough to fit the satellite box through. 181 00:12:56,810 --> 00:13:00,645 The next step -- lowering the antonov's onboard ramp. 182 00:13:05,318 --> 00:13:08,453 The antonov's opening is nine feet above the ground. 183 00:13:10,557 --> 00:13:12,023 Deployed from this height, 184 00:13:12,025 --> 00:13:17,128 The gradient of the 29-1/2-foot onboard ramp is 20 degrees. 185 00:13:19,232 --> 00:13:23,168 Pushing the 13-foot-tall satellite box up this incline 186 00:13:23,170 --> 00:13:25,804 Creates a challenge for the crew. 187 00:13:25,806 --> 00:13:27,105 The top of the box 188 00:13:27,107 --> 00:13:31,543 Could hit the top of the antonov's cargo bay. 189 00:13:31,545 --> 00:13:34,479 If it clears the gap, the 28-foot-long box 190 00:13:34,481 --> 00:13:36,414 Will reach its tipping point. 191 00:13:39,252 --> 00:13:41,252 And there's a risk it could crash down 192 00:13:41,254 --> 00:13:43,254 Onto the cargo bay floor, 193 00:13:43,256 --> 00:13:46,024 Damaging the fragile satellite inside. 194 00:13:49,830 --> 00:13:52,730 Logistics manager yorann marc must ensure 195 00:13:52,732 --> 00:13:56,701 The delicate satellite makes it to kourou in one piece. 196 00:14:14,287 --> 00:14:17,856 The team can't risk damaging the satellite during loading. 197 00:14:17,858 --> 00:14:21,159 Any malfunction could affect the rocket launch and land 198 00:14:21,161 --> 00:14:23,394 The crew with a hefty bill. 199 00:14:29,536 --> 00:14:32,537 At the satellite factory near the toulouse airport, 200 00:14:32,539 --> 00:14:36,908 Workers secure the oversized box to the low loader. 201 00:14:36,910 --> 00:14:40,445 Once loading is complete, the ground team departs. 202 00:14:40,447 --> 00:14:44,048 It will arrive at the airport in just one hour. 203 00:14:44,050 --> 00:14:47,785 The box must not slam into the ceiling of the cargo bay 204 00:14:47,787 --> 00:14:51,356 Or crash down onto the floor during loading. 205 00:14:51,358 --> 00:14:54,893 To prepare the antonov for all types of mega-cargo, 206 00:14:54,895 --> 00:14:56,661 Engineers equip this super-plane 207 00:14:56,663 --> 00:15:00,098 With an innovation to alleviate complications. 208 00:15:04,671 --> 00:15:09,641 The hydraulic system helps the antonov kneel down. 209 00:15:09,643 --> 00:15:12,443 The motors power two five-and-a-half-foot-long 210 00:15:12,445 --> 00:15:14,979 High-tensile steel jackscrews 211 00:15:14,981 --> 00:15:18,016 Attached to the front landing gear. 212 00:15:18,018 --> 00:15:22,020 When they twist, they rotate the landing gear forwards, 213 00:15:24,024 --> 00:15:25,657 Jacking down to the ground 214 00:15:25,659 --> 00:15:30,061 Nearly 400,000 pounds of aircraft. 215 00:15:30,063 --> 00:15:32,997 The process lowers the antonov's opening to stand 216 00:15:32,999 --> 00:15:35,466 Just four feet above the ground 217 00:15:35,468 --> 00:15:40,305 And reduces the ramp's angle to just eight degrees. 218 00:15:40,307 --> 00:15:42,974 This should stop the tall box from hitting the cargo bay 219 00:15:42,976 --> 00:15:44,976 Ceiling as the team loads it. 220 00:15:48,615 --> 00:15:53,151 In toulouse, load master oleksiy initiates the kneeling system. 221 00:15:55,588 --> 00:15:59,657 Gas turbine auxiliary power units pressurize the hydraulics. 222 00:16:01,795 --> 00:16:05,263 The screws begin to turn, 223 00:16:05,265 --> 00:16:08,800 The huge aircraft bows down, 224 00:16:08,802 --> 00:16:13,972 And rests its nearly 400,000-pound empty weight 225 00:16:13,974 --> 00:16:18,076 On study outrigger feet. 226 00:16:18,078 --> 00:16:21,412 Oleksiy's team unfolds the internal ramp. 227 00:16:24,751 --> 00:16:27,552 Next, they add an extension ramp 228 00:16:27,554 --> 00:16:31,289 To make the angle with the cargo bay floor even shallower. 229 00:16:35,228 --> 00:16:43,534 As night falls, the team carrying the satellite 230 00:16:43,536 --> 00:16:46,270 Arrives at the airport. 231 00:16:46,272 --> 00:16:50,775 This 155,000-pound crane lifts the sealed box 232 00:16:50,777 --> 00:16:52,810 From the low loader onto the ramp. 233 00:16:55,181 --> 00:16:57,982 A winch fixed inside the 124 234 00:16:57,984 --> 00:17:02,787 Slowly pulls the satellite into the hold. 235 00:17:02,789 --> 00:17:06,257 Now comes the moment of truth. 236 00:17:06,259 --> 00:17:07,959 Will the box fit? 237 00:17:10,263 --> 00:17:12,230 The clearance between the top of the container 238 00:17:12,232 --> 00:17:16,300 And the ceiling of the aircraft is extremely small. 239 00:17:21,107 --> 00:17:26,844 The box slips through the gap with just inches to spare. 240 00:17:26,846 --> 00:17:30,415 The crew loads the three smaller boxes containing the equipment 241 00:17:30,417 --> 00:17:33,885 Needed to prepare the satellite for launch. 242 00:17:33,887 --> 00:17:37,055 Next, they use super-strong steel chains 243 00:17:37,057 --> 00:17:42,293 To secure the cargo to the 124's titanium floor. 244 00:17:42,295 --> 00:17:45,897 The antonov is loaded up and ready to go. 245 00:17:50,136 --> 00:17:53,871 Ahead lies the antonov's next challenge -- 246 00:17:53,873 --> 00:18:00,278 Flying nonstop across nearly 4,500 miles of open ocean. 247 00:18:00,280 --> 00:18:04,015 What engineering secret allows this super-heavy plane 248 00:18:04,017 --> 00:18:08,920 To soar through the skies without stopping to refuel, 249 00:18:08,922 --> 00:18:10,755 And what technology keeps the plane 250 00:18:10,757 --> 00:18:14,325 Stable in the most extreme weather conditions? 251 00:18:14,327 --> 00:18:16,727 [ thunder rumbles ] 252 00:18:28,808 --> 00:18:34,212 Narrator: 5:00 a.M. -- Toulouse airport, France. 253 00:18:34,214 --> 00:18:37,949 Pilots prepare the super-sized antonov 124 cargo plane 254 00:18:37,951 --> 00:18:40,785 For takeoff. 255 00:18:40,787 --> 00:18:45,123 In its hold -- a special temperature-controlled box 256 00:18:45,125 --> 00:18:48,793 Carrying a $100 million satellite 257 00:18:48,795 --> 00:18:53,397 Bound for kourou spaceport in french guiana. 258 00:18:53,399 --> 00:18:57,869 To get there, the 124 must fly nearly 4,500 miles 259 00:18:57,871 --> 00:18:59,770 Across the atlantic ocean. 260 00:19:02,408 --> 00:19:05,610 Navigator anatolii abdulhiev is in charge 261 00:19:05,612 --> 00:19:07,678 Of keeping the aircraft on course 262 00:19:07,680 --> 00:19:09,814 Throughout the entire journey. 263 00:19:23,096 --> 00:19:26,230 The antonov must carry enough fuel to complete the trip 264 00:19:26,232 --> 00:19:28,366 Without stopping to refuel, 265 00:19:28,368 --> 00:19:32,403 Since there's nowhere to fill up over the atlantic. 266 00:19:32,405 --> 00:19:34,305 Building engines both large enough 267 00:19:34,307 --> 00:19:36,374 To thrust the antonov forward 268 00:19:36,376 --> 00:19:39,177 And efficient enough to fly long distances 269 00:19:39,179 --> 00:19:41,913 Is a huge engineering challenge. 270 00:19:45,351 --> 00:19:48,152 The antonov's four engines produce more thrust 271 00:19:48,154 --> 00:19:52,356 Than seven f-16 fighter jets. 272 00:19:52,358 --> 00:19:54,892 They push the monster plane through the sky 273 00:19:54,894 --> 00:19:59,330 At 528 miles per hour. 274 00:19:59,332 --> 00:20:01,499 But the more powerful the jet engines, 275 00:20:01,501 --> 00:20:05,136 The more fuel they consume. 276 00:20:05,138 --> 00:20:13,244 A regular jet engine burns fuel up to 3,632 degrees. 277 00:20:13,246 --> 00:20:16,147 Exhaust gases propel the aircraft forward 278 00:20:18,284 --> 00:20:21,118 While rotating turbines connected to compressors 279 00:20:21,120 --> 00:20:22,753 At the front of the engine. 280 00:20:25,725 --> 00:20:30,328 These force more air into the combustion chamber, 281 00:20:30,330 --> 00:20:34,232 Causing the fuel to burn at a higher temperature. 282 00:20:34,234 --> 00:20:37,702 This standard system makes jet aircraft fast 283 00:20:37,704 --> 00:20:41,205 And also very thirsty. 284 00:20:41,207 --> 00:20:43,608 The 124 could run out of fuel way 285 00:20:43,610 --> 00:20:45,543 Before reaching french guiana, 286 00:20:45,545 --> 00:20:48,145 If fitted with just regular jet engines. 287 00:20:51,217 --> 00:20:53,050 This aircraft's propulsion system 288 00:20:53,052 --> 00:20:55,186 Must be super-efficient to stand 289 00:20:55,188 --> 00:20:58,189 A chance of reaching kourou on one tank of fuel. 290 00:21:00,827 --> 00:21:03,594 It's here at the antonov's maintenance hanger 291 00:21:03,596 --> 00:21:06,397 Where engineers give the planes regular check-ups 292 00:21:06,399 --> 00:21:10,835 To ensure the 124's engines are working at maximum capacity. 293 00:21:13,973 --> 00:21:20,411 Chief engine mechanic pavlo kirzhner oversees the operation. 294 00:21:20,413 --> 00:21:23,714 Big overhauls strip away the engine's outer casing 295 00:21:23,716 --> 00:21:28,919 To reveal their secret for maximum efficiency. 296 00:21:28,921 --> 00:21:30,955 First, the antonov's designers 297 00:21:30,957 --> 00:21:34,458 Attach a seven-foot-fan to the front of each engine. 298 00:21:37,030 --> 00:21:40,765 Each fan weighs nearly 6,700 pounds. 299 00:22:03,423 --> 00:22:08,492 Next, engineers wrap each engine in a symmetrical ducting system. 300 00:22:08,494 --> 00:22:13,464 The ducting encases half the length of each 16-foot-long jet. 301 00:22:16,169 --> 00:22:19,403 The antonov's designers then install an extra turbine 302 00:22:19,405 --> 00:22:22,406 At the back of the engine. 303 00:22:22,408 --> 00:22:25,543 This turns a shaft connected to the giant fan, 304 00:22:28,247 --> 00:22:31,716 Made from 33 angled blades of titanium. 305 00:22:34,320 --> 00:22:38,255 The spinning fan pushes more air into the engine's compressors. 306 00:22:41,094 --> 00:22:44,195 It also blows air at high speed through the ducting 307 00:22:44,197 --> 00:22:47,098 And out the back of the engine. 308 00:22:47,100 --> 00:22:50,067 This system doubles the engine's thrust 309 00:22:50,069 --> 00:22:53,738 Without increasing its fuel consumption 310 00:22:53,740 --> 00:22:57,808 To give the antonov's engines more bang for their buck. 311 00:23:00,413 --> 00:23:06,283 In toulouse, the ground crew finished pumping 39,625 gallons 312 00:23:06,285 --> 00:23:11,789 Of jet fuel into 13 compartments inside the 124's wings. 313 00:23:24,704 --> 00:23:27,204 It's time to go. 314 00:23:27,206 --> 00:23:30,541 The four monster turbo-fan engines fire up. 315 00:23:32,512 --> 00:23:35,679 The massive aircraft taxis to the runway. 316 00:23:39,051 --> 00:23:43,754 The pilot accelerates the antonov 162 miles per hour. 317 00:23:47,860 --> 00:23:51,195 The giant plane takes to the skies. 318 00:23:54,534 --> 00:24:00,538 But up ahead, new challenges await the 124 and its crew. 319 00:24:00,540 --> 00:24:03,340 How does this super-plane stay airborne 320 00:24:03,342 --> 00:24:06,177 During life-threatening turbulence, 321 00:24:06,179 --> 00:24:08,579 And what secret technology stops it 322 00:24:08,581 --> 00:24:11,715 From skidding off the runway when it lands? 323 00:24:26,666 --> 00:24:31,569 Narrator: Soaring 31,000 feet above the atlantic ocean, 324 00:24:31,571 --> 00:24:36,941 The antonov 124 mega-plane carries a $100 million satellite 325 00:24:36,943 --> 00:24:40,377 Bound for french guiana. 326 00:24:40,379 --> 00:24:43,214 The spacecraft ships in a special dust-proof, 327 00:24:43,216 --> 00:24:47,017 Temperature-controlled box to protect it from damage. 328 00:24:49,188 --> 00:24:53,991 The box must be delivered to project manager sophie lay 329 00:24:53,993 --> 00:24:56,260 And sealed inside this clean room 330 00:24:56,262 --> 00:24:58,462 At the european space center in kourou 331 00:24:58,464 --> 00:25:01,999 Within five hours to prepare it for launch. 332 00:25:13,913 --> 00:25:16,247 Onboard the antonov, 333 00:25:16,249 --> 00:25:19,450 Logistics manager yorann marc checks the status 334 00:25:19,452 --> 00:25:22,953 Of the box's air-conditioning system every half hour. 335 00:25:22,955 --> 00:25:26,757 The temperature must remain within strict limits. 336 00:25:26,759 --> 00:25:28,792 Changes in temperature can damage 337 00:25:28,794 --> 00:25:31,128 The satellite's sensitive components. 338 00:25:50,716 --> 00:25:53,350 The antonov is 310 miles from french 339 00:25:53,352 --> 00:25:56,320 Guiana's international airport in cayenne. 340 00:25:58,558 --> 00:26:04,128 This part of the plane's journey is the most treacherous. 341 00:26:04,130 --> 00:26:08,299 Here, close to the equator, wet, warm air from the atlantic 342 00:26:08,301 --> 00:26:14,171 Creates towering thunderclouds and powerful storms. 343 00:26:14,173 --> 00:26:16,640 Extreme winds buffeting the antonov 344 00:26:16,642 --> 00:26:21,145 Could shake the satellite box, break its seal, 345 00:26:21,147 --> 00:26:25,349 And let in damaging dust and moisture. 346 00:26:25,351 --> 00:26:27,117 Its critical this mega-plane 347 00:26:27,119 --> 00:26:29,587 Maintains a smooth and level flight 348 00:26:29,589 --> 00:26:32,256 For the rest of the journey to cayenne. 349 00:26:32,258 --> 00:26:36,360 But in super-strong winds, the 124's design can leave it 350 00:26:36,362 --> 00:26:40,064 Vulnerable to a dangerous motion called dutch roll. 351 00:26:40,066 --> 00:26:45,169 ♪ 352 00:26:45,171 --> 00:26:48,172 This can occur when a strong wind gust tips and aircraft 353 00:26:48,174 --> 00:26:50,007 To one side. 354 00:26:50,009 --> 00:26:52,943 Wing drag then skews its yaw, 355 00:26:52,945 --> 00:26:56,680 The angle at which it flies forward through the air. 356 00:26:56,682 --> 00:26:58,949 Pilots can reduce speed to stop the roll 357 00:26:58,951 --> 00:27:02,753 And maintain stable flight. 358 00:27:02,755 --> 00:27:06,790 But the design of a super-huge high-wing cargo aircraft 359 00:27:06,792 --> 00:27:09,660 Intensifies the impact of dutch roll. 360 00:27:09,662 --> 00:27:13,397 It has a low center of mass and a high lift point. 361 00:27:13,399 --> 00:27:18,168 So, when wind tips the aircraft, it swings back the other way. 362 00:27:18,170 --> 00:27:22,573 The plane sways back and forth like a pendulum. 363 00:27:22,575 --> 00:27:24,308 In extreme circumstances, 364 00:27:24,310 --> 00:27:27,211 The stresses on the aircraft can become too much. 365 00:27:29,849 --> 00:27:31,448 In the worst-case scenario, 366 00:27:31,450 --> 00:27:33,817 Extreme winds blasting the aircraft 367 00:27:33,819 --> 00:27:37,021 Could shake loose its heavy cargo. 368 00:27:37,023 --> 00:27:39,657 An unsecured load inside the antonov 369 00:27:39,659 --> 00:27:42,059 Could have deadly consequences. 370 00:27:45,131 --> 00:27:48,265 April, 2013. 371 00:27:48,267 --> 00:27:52,836 This boeing 747 cargo plane suddenly stalls and crashes 372 00:27:52,838 --> 00:27:55,305 To the ground shortly after takeoff. 373 00:27:58,644 --> 00:28:02,713 All seven crew members on board are killed. 374 00:28:02,715 --> 00:28:06,984 The investigation revealed that nearly 177,000 pounds of cargo 375 00:28:06,986 --> 00:28:10,654 Inside the plane broke loose. 376 00:28:10,656 --> 00:28:13,691 The aircraft's balance pivoted backwards, 377 00:28:13,693 --> 00:28:16,593 And the 747 fell from the sky. 378 00:28:19,331 --> 00:28:23,333 The antonov's secret for beating strong winds 379 00:28:23,335 --> 00:28:26,437 Is linking its control surfaces 380 00:28:26,439 --> 00:28:29,406 To an ingenious automatic steering system. 381 00:28:33,713 --> 00:28:37,715 A pair of sensors mounted in the antonov's tail 382 00:28:37,717 --> 00:28:40,184 Measures the aircraft's roll and yaw. 383 00:28:42,621 --> 00:28:44,321 The data is sent to the computer 384 00:28:44,323 --> 00:28:46,824 Controlling the aircraft's flight surfaces. 385 00:28:49,829 --> 00:28:53,297 When wind rolls and twists the plane, 386 00:28:53,299 --> 00:28:55,699 The computer moves the rudder and elevator 387 00:28:55,701 --> 00:28:57,367 To counteract the motion 388 00:28:59,972 --> 00:29:04,675 And maneuvers the aircraft back to level flight. 389 00:29:04,677 --> 00:29:08,512 This system works independently of the pilot 390 00:29:08,514 --> 00:29:10,881 And keeps the antonov stable 391 00:29:10,883 --> 00:29:13,317 In the most challenging weather conditions. 392 00:29:17,757 --> 00:29:20,290 With the system engaged, 393 00:29:20,292 --> 00:29:23,093 The 124 carves through the powerful winds 394 00:29:23,095 --> 00:29:26,530 Close to the equator. 395 00:29:26,532 --> 00:29:29,767 The satellite is safe and secure in the hold. 396 00:29:32,471 --> 00:29:38,242 The antonov is now just 186 miles from cayenne airport, 397 00:29:38,244 --> 00:29:41,011 But new challenges lie ahead. 398 00:29:41,013 --> 00:29:45,149 What is the engineering secret that brings this massive plane 399 00:29:45,151 --> 00:29:48,285 To a full stop on the runway, 400 00:29:48,287 --> 00:29:51,355 And what is the technology that allows the crew 401 00:29:51,357 --> 00:29:53,991 To unload cargo super-fast? 402 00:29:53,993 --> 00:29:59,897 ♪ 403 00:30:10,810 --> 00:30:14,578 Narrator: 125 miles off the south american coast, 404 00:30:14,580 --> 00:30:18,282 The antonov 124 mega-plane prepares for landing 405 00:30:18,284 --> 00:30:22,619 At cayenne airport, french guiana. 406 00:30:22,621 --> 00:30:27,958 Onboard -- nearly 100,000 pounds of fragile satellite equipment 407 00:30:27,960 --> 00:30:32,863 Bound for the european space center in kourou. 408 00:30:32,865 --> 00:30:35,732 At the airport, project manager sophie lay 409 00:30:35,734 --> 00:30:39,269 Waits for the plane's arrival. 410 00:30:39,271 --> 00:30:43,307 Her team is gearing up to load the satellite onto this truck 411 00:30:43,309 --> 00:30:45,475 To transport it to the space center 412 00:30:45,477 --> 00:30:48,412 43 miles northwest of the airport. 413 00:30:58,424 --> 00:31:01,658 Nine thousand eight hundred forty-two feet in the air, 414 00:31:01,660 --> 00:31:05,863 The 124's pilots lock in their approach. 415 00:31:05,865 --> 00:31:08,098 The antonov must follow a precise path 416 00:31:08,100 --> 00:31:10,567 And speed to the runway. 417 00:31:10,569 --> 00:31:13,437 Fifty-nine percent of all aviation accidents 418 00:31:13,439 --> 00:31:16,573 Happen during the landing sequence. 419 00:31:16,575 --> 00:31:18,842 The heavier the load a plane carries, 420 00:31:18,844 --> 00:31:21,111 The faster it must go to stay in the air 421 00:31:21,113 --> 00:31:24,047 And the faster its speed at touchdown. 422 00:31:24,049 --> 00:31:28,418 The 124 must maintain a steady 174 miles per hour 423 00:31:28,420 --> 00:31:30,754 To reach the runway. 424 00:31:30,756 --> 00:31:36,727 That's 31 miles per hour faster than the average passenger jet. 425 00:31:36,729 --> 00:31:39,596 Stopping a super-sized aircraft travelling at this speed 426 00:31:39,598 --> 00:31:42,799 On the runway is a big engineering challenge. 427 00:31:42,801 --> 00:31:47,905 ♪ 428 00:31:47,907 --> 00:31:50,140 On the brakes of a traditional aircraft, 429 00:31:50,142 --> 00:31:55,045 Calipers grip a solid steel disc on the vehicle's wheel axle. 430 00:31:55,047 --> 00:31:57,080 When the calipers engage, 431 00:31:57,082 --> 00:31:59,583 The friction turns the axle's kinetic 432 00:31:59,585 --> 00:32:02,519 Or movement energy into heat. 433 00:32:02,521 --> 00:32:04,554 The system is perfect for stopping light 434 00:32:04,556 --> 00:32:07,124 And slow-moving vehicles. 435 00:32:07,126 --> 00:32:11,361 The nearly 728,000-pound antonov touches down 436 00:32:11,363 --> 00:32:15,532 With a kinetic energy of over 230 formula 1 cars 437 00:32:15,534 --> 00:32:17,434 Travelling at full speed. 438 00:32:19,772 --> 00:32:22,439 Turning this amount of energy into heat 439 00:32:22,441 --> 00:32:26,143 Could soften the steel brake discs by so much 440 00:32:26,145 --> 00:32:28,512 That they won't be able to stop the antonov 441 00:32:28,514 --> 00:32:30,514 From hurtling off the runway. 442 00:32:33,052 --> 00:32:36,053 The dense jungle surrounding cayenne's two-mile-long 443 00:32:36,055 --> 00:32:38,588 Landing strip adds to the pressure. 444 00:32:40,893 --> 00:32:46,029 Overrunning the runway could end in disaster. 445 00:32:46,031 --> 00:32:49,132 2012 -- moscow. 446 00:32:49,134 --> 00:32:51,635 Car dash cam footage captures the moment 447 00:32:51,637 --> 00:32:56,473 A tupolev tu-204 aircraft overshoots the runway 448 00:32:56,475 --> 00:33:01,178 And slams into a road at 118 miles per hour. 449 00:33:01,180 --> 00:33:05,749 Five crew members aboard the plane lose their lives. 450 00:33:05,751 --> 00:33:10,620 Investigators conclude the jet's brakes failed during landing. 451 00:33:13,192 --> 00:33:15,292 To prevent an accident like this, 452 00:33:15,294 --> 00:33:17,761 Designers build in a super-heat-resistant 453 00:33:17,763 --> 00:33:21,665 Braking system to bring this mega-plane to a stop. 454 00:33:21,667 --> 00:33:28,739 ♪ 455 00:33:28,741 --> 00:33:31,408 Here, at antonov's maintenance hanger, 456 00:33:31,410 --> 00:33:34,578 A critical inspection of this aircraft's landing gear 457 00:33:34,580 --> 00:33:39,483 Reveals the machine's secret for shedding heat. 458 00:33:39,485 --> 00:33:43,353 Chief mechanic petro danylov leads the maintenance team. 459 00:33:45,691 --> 00:33:51,628 The 124 has 20 51-inch wheels at the rear. 460 00:33:51,630 --> 00:33:57,734 Each 350-pound wheel is attached to a four-foot-long axle. 461 00:33:57,736 --> 00:34:00,871 Each axle has five brake discs. 462 00:34:00,873 --> 00:34:04,174 Vents on the wheel hub channel air onto the discs. 463 00:34:21,693 --> 00:34:26,830 ♪ 464 00:34:26,832 --> 00:34:29,466 The antonov's designers build in a special material 465 00:34:29,468 --> 00:34:31,435 To cool the brakes even more. 466 00:34:34,773 --> 00:34:40,777 They swap conventional steel brakes for carbon discs. 467 00:34:40,779 --> 00:34:44,481 Carbon absorbs far more heat energy than steel, 468 00:34:44,483 --> 00:34:48,652 So the material won't melt when braking. 469 00:34:48,654 --> 00:34:52,222 They stack five discs onto each of the axles 470 00:34:52,224 --> 00:34:55,258 Holding the antonov's 20 rear wheels. 471 00:34:55,260 --> 00:34:56,493 [ tires screech ] 472 00:34:56,495 --> 00:34:58,695 Spreading the heat energy produced by friction 473 00:34:58,697 --> 00:35:00,330 Over more discs 474 00:35:00,332 --> 00:35:04,668 Makes the system even more resilient. 475 00:35:04,670 --> 00:35:08,004 The brakes pulse on and off to prevent tires 476 00:35:08,006 --> 00:35:11,808 From locking up and skidding on wet runways, 477 00:35:11,810 --> 00:35:14,211 Bringing the plane to a full stop. 478 00:35:14,213 --> 00:35:20,083 ♪ 479 00:35:20,085 --> 00:35:24,221 At cayenne airport, the mighty cargo plane comes into view. 480 00:35:27,426 --> 00:35:30,460 Its time for the antonov's brakes to do their job. 481 00:35:30,462 --> 00:35:35,732 ♪ 482 00:35:35,734 --> 00:35:38,268 [ tires squeal ] 483 00:35:38,270 --> 00:35:44,407 The plane's 20 51-inch rear wheels touch down on the runway. 484 00:35:44,409 --> 00:35:47,911 The brakes heat up to 1,022 degrees 485 00:35:47,913 --> 00:35:52,115 As their steel calipers grip carbon discs to slow the plane. 486 00:35:52,117 --> 00:35:59,556 ♪ 487 00:35:59,558 --> 00:36:04,528 The giant 124 decelerates 488 00:36:04,530 --> 00:36:06,830 And taxis towards the terminal. 489 00:36:09,168 --> 00:36:12,335 Now comes the antonov's final challenge -- 490 00:36:12,337 --> 00:36:15,338 Unload the satellite onto the waiting convoy 491 00:36:15,340 --> 00:36:18,608 As fast as possible. 492 00:36:18,610 --> 00:36:20,944 What special technology allows this plane 493 00:36:20,946 --> 00:36:25,081 To shift bulky cargo quickly, 494 00:36:25,083 --> 00:36:27,450 And will the antonov's precious delivery 495 00:36:27,452 --> 00:36:30,487 Make it to the space center in one piece? 496 00:36:45,571 --> 00:36:49,072 Narrator: At cayenne airport in french guiana, 497 00:36:49,074 --> 00:36:53,977 The antonov 124's crew prepares to unload the mega-plane's 498 00:36:53,979 --> 00:36:57,714 Precious satellite cargo onto waiting vehicles. 499 00:36:59,851 --> 00:37:02,285 The satellite must reach this clean room 500 00:37:02,287 --> 00:37:06,122 At the european spaceport 37 miles away in kourou. 501 00:37:10,562 --> 00:37:14,231 The operation must run like clockwork to get the satellite 502 00:37:14,233 --> 00:37:18,735 To the clean room within the next three hours. 503 00:37:18,737 --> 00:37:21,438 First, load master oleksiy pervishko 504 00:37:21,440 --> 00:37:24,274 And his team must unload the lighter boxes 505 00:37:24,276 --> 00:37:26,409 Carrying the satellite's support equipment 506 00:37:26,411 --> 00:37:28,545 Through the plane's rear doors. 507 00:37:30,716 --> 00:37:32,649 Using a forklift to shuttle the boxes 508 00:37:32,651 --> 00:37:33,917 Individually from the cargo 509 00:37:33,919 --> 00:37:38,521 Hold to the convoy will take too much time. 510 00:37:38,523 --> 00:37:39,889 The antonov needs a way 511 00:37:39,891 --> 00:37:42,892 To unload directly onto the waiting trucks. 512 00:37:45,297 --> 00:37:47,564 An engineer's designed this heavy hauler 513 00:37:47,566 --> 00:37:49,633 With a special piece of technology 514 00:37:49,635 --> 00:37:51,935 To allow for super-fast offloading. 515 00:37:51,937 --> 00:37:55,472 At the end of the antonov hanger in kiev, 516 00:37:55,474 --> 00:37:59,576 Maintenance checks reveal this aircraft's secret. 517 00:37:59,578 --> 00:38:02,612 A pair of overhead gantry cranes travel 518 00:38:02,614 --> 00:38:06,149 Along 154-foot ceiling-mounted rails 519 00:38:06,151 --> 00:38:09,019 That run the full length of the cargo bay. 520 00:38:09,021 --> 00:38:13,890 Each crane is equipped with two 15-horsepower electric winches. 521 00:38:13,892 --> 00:38:16,526 Working together, the four winches can lift up 522 00:38:16,528 --> 00:38:20,063 To 66,138 pounds. 523 00:38:22,401 --> 00:38:26,169 At cayenne airport, the first convoy truck 524 00:38:26,171 --> 00:38:29,439 Reverses into position beneath antonov's tail. 525 00:38:32,010 --> 00:38:37,981 The crane extends to the tail section as the rear doors open. 526 00:38:37,983 --> 00:38:41,584 The winch cables extend over 20 feet to the ground. 527 00:38:43,588 --> 00:38:46,289 This allows the plane to unload from the cargo bay 528 00:38:46,291 --> 00:38:48,625 Straight onto the back of a truck. 529 00:38:53,498 --> 00:38:55,465 The first challenge for oleksiy's team 530 00:38:55,467 --> 00:38:59,135 Is to lower the support equipment boxes one by one. 531 00:38:59,137 --> 00:39:04,674 ♪ 532 00:39:04,676 --> 00:39:10,113 ♪ 533 00:39:10,115 --> 00:39:14,551 Moving the support equipment takes one hour. 534 00:39:14,553 --> 00:39:17,954 The next challenge -- unloading the satellite box. 535 00:39:17,956 --> 00:39:23,026 ♪ 536 00:39:23,028 --> 00:39:25,929 The plane once again flips up its nose 537 00:39:25,931 --> 00:39:27,764 And kneels on the ground. 538 00:39:32,471 --> 00:39:35,638 Oleksiy deploys the antonov's built-in ramp. 539 00:39:40,278 --> 00:39:43,413 His team constructs the ramp extension. 540 00:39:45,550 --> 00:39:49,319 Another three-kilowatt winch holds the box's weight 541 00:39:49,321 --> 00:39:51,821 As the crew guides it down to the ramp. 542 00:39:54,726 --> 00:39:58,561 A 65-foot-tall crane lifts the precious delivery 543 00:39:58,563 --> 00:40:00,597 Onto the back of a low loader. 544 00:40:05,270 --> 00:40:06,903 Mission accomplished. 545 00:40:09,708 --> 00:40:12,108 The satellite convoy hits the road 546 00:40:12,110 --> 00:40:18,448 ♪ 547 00:40:18,450 --> 00:40:22,318 And arrives at the european spaceport right on schedule. 548 00:40:24,356 --> 00:40:28,158 Over the next four weeks, scientists test 549 00:40:28,160 --> 00:40:30,727 And refuel the satellite 550 00:40:30,729 --> 00:40:36,232 Before loading it onto a 164-foot-tall ariane 5 rocket. 551 00:40:36,234 --> 00:40:43,373 [ speaking foreign ] 552 00:40:43,375 --> 00:40:50,280 Six weeks after delivery, the satellite blasts into space. 553 00:40:50,282 --> 00:40:54,584 It will fly and map the earth from 656,000 feet 554 00:40:54,586 --> 00:40:58,021 Above the surface for the next 20 years. 555 00:41:02,527 --> 00:41:11,835 The antonov 124 ruslan is bigger and carries heavier cargo 556 00:41:11,837 --> 00:41:15,405 Than any other fleet of transport plane in the world. 557 00:41:18,143 --> 00:41:23,713 Built into its mighty frame are a series of ingenious inventions 558 00:41:23,715 --> 00:41:28,785 That make it the pinnacle of mega-life plane design. 559 00:41:28,787 --> 00:41:31,154 Super-strong and light components 560 00:41:31,156 --> 00:41:34,791 Keep the fuselage rock-solid. 561 00:41:34,793 --> 00:41:37,193 Giant jackscrews kneel the plane 562 00:41:37,195 --> 00:41:41,331 To carry enormous loads of cargo. 563 00:41:41,333 --> 00:41:43,600 Thrust-boosting turbo-fan engines 564 00:41:43,602 --> 00:41:47,237 Push the plane through the sky with maximum efficiency. 565 00:41:49,341 --> 00:41:52,909 Gyroscopes and super-pressurized hydraulics 566 00:41:52,911 --> 00:41:57,647 Keep the aircraft steady in the strongest winds. 567 00:41:57,649 --> 00:42:00,950 And carbon disc brakes bring this monster plane 568 00:42:00,952 --> 00:42:02,685 To a complete stop. 569 00:42:05,590 --> 00:42:11,094 This giant aircraft carries the biggest, bulkiest air 570 00:42:11,096 --> 00:42:16,799 Freight further than almost all its rivals. 571 00:42:16,801 --> 00:42:23,673 The antonov 124 ruslan is built to be the ultimate.