Giant Antonov An-124 cargo plane lands in Tikkakoski for NATO exercise, draws record crowds, and completes mission with Pirkkala takeoff

One of the world’s largest aircraft, the Ukrainian-made Antonov An-124, landed at Tikkakoski Airport in Jyväskylä on Midsummer’s Eve. The massive cargo plane touched down at approximately 2:30 PM, drawing attention from local residents, including families who gathered to witness the event. Ilta-Sanomat reports that hundreds of onlookers lined the roadside, with some describing the aircraft’s arrival as producing a thunderous roar, prompting one observer to note that ear protection would be necessary for future viewings (Ilta-Sanomat). Helsingin Sanomat estimates that the crowd may have reached as many as a thousand spotters, with attendees noting a festive Midsummer atmosphere and the need for informal traffic coordination due to the large turnout (Helsingin Sanomat).