Two Chinese-built Shaanxi Y-8 landed at Malta International Airport this afternoon, a rare a treat for plane spotters.

The type is considered as being China’s most successful military and civilian transport aircraft.

It is believed that the aircraft are on a delivery flight to the Venezuela Air Force.

The Shaanxi Y-8 is based on the Russian Antonov An-12 and entered service in 1981. It has since been upgraded several times.

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