
The Cavok Air-operated Antonov An-12BK, UR-KDM msn 02348107, at Wellcamp (Lenn Bayliss)
Australian Aviation’s Lenn Bayliss took these photos of a 48-year-old Antonov An‑12BK landing in Wellcamp on 18 December.
Cavok Air-operated UR-KDM, msn 02348107, departed Kuala Lumpur at 7:32am on 17 December and landed in Darwin at 4:27pm, before continuing on to Wellcamp the next day.
Entering into service in 1959, the An‑12 was the go-to medium-range cargo transport for the Soviet air forces for close to three decades. It was effectively a major rival to the US Lockheed C-130 Hercules.
It was also renowned for its short runway capabilities, high-mounted wings, raised tail and strong lifting qualities.

The Cavok Air-operated Antonov An-12BK, UR-KDM msn 02348107, at Wellcamp (Lenn Bayliss)
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2 comments
Just like there was no real alternative to a C-130 for the Western powers, there was no other option to the An-12 for those buying from the Eastern Bloc. Both aircraft have their advantages and disadvantages, but for real world, rough strip heavy haulage, nothing matches the Hercules.
A12 of Covak Air flew over Liverpool U.K. 2 days ago on its way from Rep. of Ireland to Vigo in Portugal..