An Epic Flight - Flying the Ilyushin IL-76 Cargo Transporter to Iraq
This week, I flew on the SilkWay Ilyushin IL-76 transporter from Baku to Erbil, Iraq. The flight involved a strong team of 5: 2 pilots, a flight engineer, a radio controller, a navigator, a loadmaster, and 2 technicians. Before takeoff, the captain and loadmaster introduced the cockpit and cargo cabin, featuring a crane system and ramp system for loading without infrastructure. This IL-76TD-90 model is equipped with new stage 4 noise compliant Perm PS90 engines, replacing the older Soloviev D-30 engines. The journey lasted 2.5 hours, and after delivering the cargo, we returned to Baku empty. The view from the navigator seat through the glass nose was spectacular. #IL76 #SilkWay #Aviation #CargoFlight #Erbil #Baku
2025-07-16T18:34:38Z
What are eVTOL aircraft, and can they fly against the hype?
In April 2024, a Japanese company took delivery of an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, otherwise known as an eVTOL. Called Prosperity 1 and built by Chinese manufacturer AutoFlight, the aircraft is one of the very first examples of a production model eVTOL sold commercially. Fifteen years ago, the notion of an eVTOL was just a concept, with skeptics branding the idea as science fiction. Today, the sale of Prosperity 1 marks a major milestone in the development of what's known as Advanced Air Mobility, and with it, the prospect of air taxis becoming a reality by the end of the decade. But who's responsible for introducing eVTOL, and how has this revolutionary method of travel evolved? Click through and launch this gallery that explains more about eVTOL aircraft.
2025-04-25T12:10:07Z
The Full Lufthansa B747-8 First Class Experience + First Class Terminal
After arriving in Frankfurt from Dubai on the Lufthansa B747-400, I visited the Lufthansa First Class Terminal, which features restaurant dining, shower and bedroom facilities, a cigar room, and an extensive whisky selection. I traveled to the plane in a Porsche Panamera as part of the lounge transfer. The flight to Los Angeles was operated by the B747-8 in Retro livery (D-ABYT). Onboard, I experienced the Lufthansa First Class service, including welcome amenities and champagne. The menu featured caviar and vodka as a starter, followed by sea bass as the main course. I sat in Seat 1A, located in the nose area of the aircraft, offering good privacy and a view over the cockpit. Enjoy the scenic view over Greenland and Western USA before landing in Los Angeles. I also shared tips on flying Lufthansa First Class affordably. #Lufthansa #FirstClass #Travel #Aviation
2025-07-16T20:34:39Z
Celtic deities and legendary heroes
Celtic cultures dominated the vast majority of Western Europe, Northern Europe, Ireland, and the British Isles for millennia in ancient times. Throughout these stretches of time, as in any ancient culture, colorful and vibrant stories and traditions came about, and tales of great kings, queens, warriors, deities, and other beings that fell somewhere in between were passed along and held close to the hearts of Celts across Europe. Some had influences so powerful and enduring that they were even adopted in the pantheon of later cultures, as was the case with the Romans. The stories of these Celtic characters and heroes prove to be some of the most interesting and enjoyable remnants of a world long lost to time. Intrigued? Read on to find out more about some of the essential personalities of ancient Celtic lore.
2025-04-17T06:03:13Z