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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPu1Dj81-EE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mka-_wAh2mM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8govwHJfA-c
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8p5CgNxE2j0
Having arrived at 14:40 from Karachi, bringing in RAF Puma helicopters from Afghanistan, the 32 year old strategic airlift cargo aircraft spent just under 4 hours on the ground, before taxiing to runway 25 for departure back to Kyiv.
Having lined up for departure, the 225, with its 6 turbofan engines started its engine runs (normal procedure prior to takeoff). Being stood directly behind the aircraft, this power and the subsequent jetblast was extremely powerful and as can be seen on the video, was an immense battle to keep the camera straight and level!
Then takeoff thrust was applied! WOW!! Not only did the jetblast send us and our cameras flying, it also caused the perimeter fence to collapse, leaving the runway exposed! Many lay on the grass behind to shield from the blast whilst we ran for cover and attempted to catch the rotation!
After the aircrafts departure the Royal Air Force Police were quickly on the scene to access the damage, all in good humour!