Exactly a year on from the destruction of the Antonov An-225 Mriya, Microsoft Flight Simulator brings the legendary aircraft to the acclaimed flight simulation video game. The new downloadable content (DLC), released on February 27, 2023, allows virtual pilots to experience the unique challenge of flying this giant aircraft while contributing to its revival. All proceeds from the $19.99 DLC will be donated to the rebuilding effort for the An-225 Mriya.
The virtual replica of the Antonov An-225 Mriya features highly detailed 3D models of the aircraft’s cockpit, cabin, and exterior, as well as accurate flight dynamics and avionics systems.
“Antonov took an active part in the digital re-creation of the An-225,” an Antonov spokesperson told AeroTime in an emailed statement. “The specialists had the opportunity to visit [chief pilot Dmytro] Antonov and several other Antonov pilots in Leipzig, where they flew the digital re-creation in Microsoft Flight Simulator. They made many useful remarks that helped in the final polish of the aircraft.”
“For sound, the original recordings of the An-225 from Antonov were received from Antonov, and [game designers] were allowed to record the An-124, which has the same engine,” Antonov added. The An-225 Mriya and the An-124 Ruslan are both powered by the Progress D-18T turbofan, manufactured by the Ukrainian engine maker Motor Sich.