Antonov Airlines’ UK team is to take over sales and operations of its aircraft following the news that Ruslan International will cease operations on 31 December 2016.

Dreamlifts Ltd (trading as Antonov Airlines) is managed by experts from the outsize and heavyweight cargo industry and Antonov Company says it expects a seamless transition for customers and a continuation of its service.

Antonov Company president, Oleksandr Kotsiuba says: “Antonov Airlines’ activities are supported by Antonov Company’s in-house design and development capabilities providing unrivalled expertise for the most challenging logistic projects. As the maintenance authority and life extension authority, we will continue to offer these proven and reliable airframes to the market for many years to come.”

“We look forward to working with the experienced and exciting team in the UK, and can see a bright future going forward with our customers.”

Antonov is celebrating the 110th anniversary of the birth of company founder, Oleg Antonov. Antonov operates seven AN-124s, the AN-225 Mriya with its 250 tonne payload and the world’s largest turboprop, the AN-22 Antei.