Bulgarian weightlifter Hristo Muskov has set a new Guinness world record for pulling an aeroplane. He moved a Bulgaria Air Airbus A320 20 metres in 23 seconds at Vasil Levski Airport in Sofia.

The previous record belonged to Briton Mark Jeans. On 28 February 2021 in the UK, he pulled a plane of the same model, weighing more than 40 tonnes, the same 20 metres in 31.3 seconds.

In Muskov's attempt, the plane weighed 44,460 kg. Under Guinness rules, it was weighed an hour before the start. Without fuel the aircraft weighs 41,712 kg, and for the attempt it was loaded with the minimum 2,700 kg.

A Bulgaria Air first officer gave the technical details. The plane was built in 2014, has 180 passenger seats and a maximum take-off weight of 78 tonnes. It is more than 37 metres long, with a wingspan of almost 36 metres.

The first officer described it as an impressive experience to watch a man move such a heavy aircraft with his own strength.

After the record, Muskov said in an interview that the uncertain weather made his preparation hard. Strong winds blew before the attempt, but they then died down, which let him beat the record.

In training he pulled the plane in 24 seconds, and after that he felt sure of his strength. He says training results are no guarantee of success in an official attempt.

Muskov ranks mental preparation among the main factors for success. He says motivation, confidence and control of emotions count as much as physical shape. So before such attempts he stays away from the media and from most of his team, to focus.

Next year he and his team are considering new attempts. He wants to beat one or two more Guinness records for pulling cars.

His next idea is to pull a vessel of 150 to 200 tonnes from a seated position. The attempt could take place in the ports of Varna or Burgas.