Ruslan International, using an AN- 124-100 freighter supplied by Volga- Dnepr Airlines, has helped to play a pivotal role in the latest stage of testing of the new Airbus A380.

The giant Airbus aircraft had to undergo further cold weather tests in Iqaluit, Canada’s northernmost city, last month as part of its certification programme. Iqaluit’s cold weather conditions attract major aircraft manufacturers and military groups as part of the certification process for new aircraft and helicopters that requires them to function properly at temperatures of between -40¡ãC and +40¡ãC.

In support of the project, Ruslan International carried a variety of ground handling equipment on board one of its 120-tonne capacity AN-124s from the US. The cargo included ground power units for the A380, airstart and air conditioning units, tug and towing equipment, lubricants and ancillary items. Dennis Gliznoutsa, vice president sales of Ruslan International, said: "This project is obviously in support of the new A380 programme. Operating into Iqaluit, however, also helps to demonstrate the unique capability of the AN-124 because the airport is very restricted by weather and runway conditions."

Volga-Dnepr previously carried Pratt & Whitney engines for the new Airbus A380 aircraft from the US to Toulouse, France and Rolls Royce engines from East Midlands in the UK.