Antonov-124 Lands at K.I. Sawyer
GWINN — Plane enthusiasts, airport staff and more received a nice surprise at K.I. Sawyer today from a very large guest.
After a slight delay, Spectators at K.I. Sawyer International Airport were pleased when a giant aircraft landed on the runway. The Antonov–124 arrived safely after having to circle the runway for nearly an hour. Its mission was to store a helicopter and bring it back to its homeland, in South Korea. Due to the size of the plane, a large runway was needed.
“Marquette’s got the longest runway in the state of Michigan, so that’s why they come here,” said Dean Whipple, one of the spectators. “It’s got the longest runway for this jet so that’s pretty cool.”
The fourth largest plane in the world, measuring 226 feet from nose to tail, can hold over 330,000 pounds of cargo, but, even in the high winds, landed as softly as a butterfly.
“It’s interesting how large that aircraft is and it came in so smooth,” said Whipple. “You just wouldn’t expect something that big to be able to fly; it’s a huge, mammoth craft it really is.”
Due to security reasons, access into the plane was prohibited, but spectators were thrilled nonetheless. One of only 55 made, the large aircraft was a spectacle to behold for yoopers and out–of–towners alike.
“I always brag about the U.P., I love the U.P. This is one of the nice things about the U.P., you see things that you don’t see elsewhere. And this is one of them. It’s kind of corky, but I like it, it’s pretty cool,” said Whipple.
The plane will be leaving at 12:30 on Thursday morning. It’s short stay won’t soon be forgotten.