Operating a cargo flight from Newburgh - USA to Kiev, the flight was carrying approximately 100 tons of clothing for the children of Chernobyl. Our stop at Luton was not just for fuel. It gave the airport operator the opportunity of assessing whether mega-large aircraft like the AN124 could be handled efficiently.

Needless to say, this type has operated in and out of Luton many times since. My flying career began on 12th October 1990 on a mission between Vienna and Riyadh. This was the beginning of a long standing working relationship with the AN124. To date, I have gathered in excess of 460 flying hours on this type.