Antonov An-124 Ruslan at Willie

[Matt Ottosen]

An Antonov An-124 Ruslan arrived at Willie today.  When Dave Loera talked with the flight crew they told him that they would be here for six days.  The following link is for today's arriving flight, I don't know if the flight number will remain the same:

http://flightaware.com/live/flight/VDA4099

I know there are some photographers that missed today's arrival that would love a chance to capture the departure.  Maybe some of you east valley guys can keep the group updated here.

[redsox223]

I would appreciate any info. I havent been out to IWA in a while and wouldnt mind catching this bird.

[Rob Silliman]

I would appreciate any info. I havent been out to IWA in a while and wouldnt mind catching this bird.

Mitchell,

It is parked almost as far from the 'knoll' as possible.  Here are some pictures I took yesterday (I don't expect I will be able to get back out to catch the departure - unless they don't leave until Saturday);

http://www.flickr.com/photos/rob-the-org/sets/72157622369383192/

Rob

[Joe Copalman]

Word is that the An-124 will be departing "some time before noon" this Friday.  I'd recommend watching FlightAware for anything going out of Willie rather than the track for the inbound flight, as they may use a different flight number. 

http://flightaware.com/live/airport/KIWA

[redsox223]

If so, what locations would you suggest to get a view.

[Joe Copalman]

Depends on the time of day and the direction they depart.  Check your AzAP email for more info.

[Bubak]

JOE please send me mail on Antonov An-124 Ruslan too!

Thank Zdenek

[Joe Copalman]

Will do Zdenek!

Also - I'm hearing from another guy on Fencecheck that it will be departing on Saturday. 

[John S]

Hey guys,  nothing on FlightAware as of 8:20 Friday morning.  I am going to email a contact I have at the airport that always seems to know the departures of such things, he informed of the last time an An-124 was there that I knew about, about 3 years ago, I found out it it was the a couple other times after that.  I will get a time out if I find out anything.

John

[John S]

Ok, email is off, I will try to post here by phone if I get a reply, will also tweet it to azaerophoto.

John

[Dave S.]

Gents,

Looks like she's scheduled to depart at 8:30 tonight (Friday, 9/18), according to this article from azcentral.com:

http://www.azcentral.com/community/gilbert/articles/2009/09/18/20090918gr-antonov0919-CP.html

Dave

[jslugman]

Well that dog ain't gonna' hunt. 

[John S]

No reply email, also nothing in FlightAware at 8:30 pm, maybe will get lucky with an morning takeoff.  I think last time I saw one here it was either 8 or 9 am.

I'll go by there on my way home, be about 10:15 pm.

John

Update---
It was still there at 10:30pm.  Anyone going to be there in the morning? 

[Rob Silliman]

You can't hide the noise of that thing taking off - or the sight of it if it is still on the ramp.

Rob

[Joe Copalman]

Article is based on old info.  Initial departure was supposed to be today (Friday), but was changed to Saturday a few days back.