IAG Cargo supports transport of 34 tonnes emergency aid to Pakistan
Largest single movement weighed 8 tonnes; flight operated by a special team who all have a connection with Pakistan.
IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has donated capacity to transport 34 tonnes of emergency aid to Islamabad, Pakistan.
A large consignment of over eight tonnes of vital aid was transported on September 25 including non-perishable food, tents, clothing and medical supplies, says an official release from IAG Cargo. "This flight was operated by a team of specially selected cabin crew who all have a personal connection to Pakistan."
All aid transported has been donated by key charity partners including Football for Peace and Khalsa Aid, the release added. "A further 21 tonnes of aid will be flown to Pakistan over the next few weeks."
In addition to sending supplies, British Airway, part of the IAG Group, has also redirected 100 percent of its on-board collections to the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) appeal, raising over £176,800.
"We have all seen the devastating impact of the horrendous floods in Pakistan that are impacting the lives of so many," says John Cheetham, Chief Commercial Officer, IAG Cargo. "The air cargo industry has always played a key role in providing the rapid response humanitarian crises require and I'm pleased that with the support of the teams at IAG Cargo, British Airways, and charities including Khalsa Aid and Football for Peace, we're able to contribute towards the significant relief being given to those in need."
Carrie Harris, Director of Sustainability, British Airways, adds: "Everyone at British Airways is deeply saddened by the humanitarian crisis in Pakistan and our thoughts are with everyone affected. As well as working with IAG Cargo to offer the free transportation of vital emergency aid, we have also redirected the funds raised from our on board collections to support the relief efforts in Pakistan. In just four weeks our customers and colleagues have generously helped raise over £176,000 for the DEC's Pakistan appeal. Our thanks to everyone who has supported so far. We're continuing to work through all our community investment channels to offer further support where it's needed."