COVID altered the way the industry operates. There was high demand for ferrying medicines, making some airlines convert grounded passenger aircraft into freighters. Cargo became a primary revenue source for many airlines.
-CT Bureau
Time is of the essence in emergency relief operations, and most nations have established a robust mechanism to ensure rapid response. The international standard for emergency aid delivery is typically within 72 hours of a disaster. However, cargo carriers in coordination with the governments respond within 24 to 48 hours, reducing the response time and increasing the effectiveness of the aid provided.
Airlines and cargo carriers in the Middle East are expanding their air cargo networks, leveraging the region’s central location and proximity to major markets. This swift response is facilitated by a 24x7 hotline manned by dedicated personnel and direct access to the operations control centre. This set-up allows cargo carriers to plan and operate new flights soon thereby ensuring aid reaches those in need without delay.
A network of partner operators is on standby to assist with missions that require specific expertise or equipment, such as military aircraft, which carriers have access to through its extensive connections. The industry has faced various hurdles over the years, from natural disasters to geopolitical events. Its ability to adapt and respond is essential for global recovery.
After the earthquake in Southern Türkiye and Syria, airlines delivered over 3,500 tonnes of aid from more than 90 countries, operated 350 relief and repatriation flights, and transported over 130,000 responders. Supplies included winter jackets, blankets, hygiene items, food, generators, tents, and medical supplies. As Kingdom of Saudi Arabia aims to triple cargo volume to 4.5 million tonnes, with Riyadh and Jeddah becoming key global connecting hubs, we examine the role of this vital aspect of cargo shipments.
Etihad Cargo’s crucial role in global humanitarian aid
Stanislaus Brun, Vice President, Etihad Cargo
Etihad Cargo has played a vital role in providing humanitarian aid during emergencies, organising 250 charters in the past 12 months in collaboration with the UAE government and ferried 1,500 tonnes of aid globally, addressing crises such as flooding in the Philippines and Nairobi, and Ukraine and Gaza conflicts. We deliver a range of essentials. Our rapid response mechanism, established with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs delivers aid within 24 to 48 hours, faster than the global standard of 72 hours.
During COVID, we operated 200 charter flights to 30 destinations. These efforts highlight our commitment to global humanitarian logistics. Etihad Cargo’s efforts stress our role in global relief, providing timely aid across continents. Abu Dhabi’s commitment to supplying aid is evident through its integrated ecosystem, where Etihad Cargo plays a vital role.
Role in boosting local economies and removing HAZMAT waste
Michael Rasin, Director & General Manager, Miebach Consulting, DMCC
Air cargo is the lifeblood of logistics in times of natural disasters. It excels at ferrying food, medicines, sanitation kits quickly. It offers better access and high capacity to remote areas and disaster zones thus mitigating impact and supporting communities. In post-disaster revival, air cargo plays a vital role in boosting local economies, removal of HAZMAT waste and restoring communication links.
During COVID, Dubai has emerged as a major air cargo hub due to its strategic location and advanced airport infrastructure. This facilitated distribution of vaccines and medical supplies to Africa, Middle East and Asia. Emirates SkyCargo transported more than 600 million doses of COVID vaccines. These vaccines flew from 35 origins to 80 destinations globally. This supported some of the most vulnerable communities in the world. Dubai will continue to be a competitive hub.
Our disaster management strategy allows us to respond swiftly
Ben Lambert, Head, Air Freight, Middle East & Africa, DHL Global Forwarding
DHL Global Forwarding has been pivotal in delivering critical aid, underscoring air cargo’s vital role in relief efforts. Our disaster management strategy leverages our international reach and logistical expertise. This infrastructure allows us to respond effectively and efficiently to global humanitarian crises. During COVID, DHL’s Ubuntu flights ferried PPE, medical supplies, and pharma to Africa.
DHL’s GoHelp Programme, including ‘Disaster Response’ and ‘GARD’ initiatives showcase our dedication to humanitarian logistics. We can mobilise up to 300 tonnes of aid daily and employ ‘speedballs’—emergency supplies packed in polypropylene bags and delivered via helicopter airdrops to hard-to-reach areas. With 300 million people needing humanitarian assistance in 2024, our preparedness is crucial. The GoHelp programme, featuring Get Airports Ready for Disaster, ensures airports are prepared for crises. Our DRTs can be deployed in 72 hours.
Disruptions, transportation can complicate emergency aid situations
Supriya Salve, Strategic Director, Vegat Logistics Services LLC, Dubai
With its rapid transport capabilities, air cargo delivers lifesaving supplies, medicines, and vital equipment to devastated areas, saving countless lives. Its reach enables relief organisations to respond swiftly and effectively, bringing relief amidst chaos. The outcome of such operations often includes the provision of immediate medical assistance, clean water, food, and shelter, aiding in the recovery and rebuilding process for communities in need.
To create an impact while handling a crisis in a dangerous territory, several actions can be taken. Logistical issues, such as transportation and supply chain disruptions, can complicate emergency response efforts. Some obstacles when carrying out relief operations include limited resources and personnel, communication challenges, inadequate planning and coordination, unpredictable nature of emergencies, access constraints to affected areas, potential security risks, and the need to prioritise and take rapid decisions under high-pressure situations.
Our resilience, adaptability was emphasised during Dubai floods
Fahmi Almughairy, Co-Founder, Win Sustainably
Absolutely. As the founder of QALIL, a business dedicated to managing the sales and delivery of surplus food in Dubai, our mission is for supporting our community during emergency. During heavy rains in April, certain areas in Dubai became inaccessible, which impacted logistics. Despite these challenges, we were committed to ensuring that food supplies reached those in need, while maintaining the quality of the products. With our partner network, we worked tirelessly in a bid to navigate the flooded streets and disrupted routes.
Our company utilised alternative transportation methods and rerouted the deliveries in order to ensure that food security was not compromised. We managed to keep a daily delivery of an average 4,500 kg to 5,000 kg of surplus food. The consistent supply of food was ably supported by many families and businesses. This experience highlighted the resilience and adaptability of our logistics operations in maintaining food supply chains even in the face of natural disasters.
We handle humanitarian aid efforts along with UN organisation
Mohammed Bilal Saleem, Manager, Operations & Documentation
The value of air cargo in humanitarian aid cannot be overstated. Air transport enables Blue Bell Shipping to deliver emergency relief swiftly to disaster-stricken areas, often where access by land or sea is compromised. This capability enhances our ability to respond quickly to emergencies. We take pride in experience of handling aid and relief shipments along with The World Food Programme of the United Nations.
Our commitment lies in ensuring delivery of crucial supplies essential for emergency response efforts. We prioritise swift transportation of relief operations Blue Bell Shipping plays a crucial role in alleviating suffering and assisting communities in overcoming adversity through our expertise in cargo logistics and unwavering dedication. We contribute to the collective effort of building resilience and promoting recovery worldwide by delivering hope and practical assistance during their most vulnerable moments.
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