The Antonov An-225 Mriya is a large cargo aircraft designed by the Ukrainian company Antonov in the 1980s. It was originally built to transport the Buran space shuttle and is known for its impressive size, featuring six engines and a maximum payload capacity of 250 tons. The An-225 holds several world records for cargo transport and is recognized as the heaviest aircraft ever built. Its unique design includes a distinctive nose that can be raised to facilitate loading and unloading of oversized cargo, making it a vital asset for heavy-lift operations worldwide.