Qatar Airways Cargo and disaster response nonprofit Airlink have been teaming up to coordinate shipments to several disaster-stricken countries around the world.

Since renewing its strong partnership in April 2022, Qatar Airways Cargo and Airlink have delivered 58 shipments on behalf of 22 organisations offering US$2.1 million in transportation relief, mobilising 351 tonnes of humanitarian supplies to seventeen countries.

In a statement, Qatar Airways Cargo said this translates to an estimated 5.8 million people worldwide.

Much-needed aid has been sent to several countries, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Philippines, Sudan, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Lebanon, Jordan, Bangladesh, Türkiye, and Syria.

The types of cargo flown are medicines, medical supplies, hospital beds, solar equipment, nutritional supplements, water and sanitation supplies, tarps, blankets, hygiene kits, and food assistance.

"Partnerships are very crucial, especially when they are for a noble cause. We are glad to support our trusted and qualified partner Airlink to transport humanitarian cargo, thereby impacting millions of lives globally," said Guillaume Halleux, chief officer of cargo at Qatar Airways, adding that airfreight plays a critical role in responding to crises and supporting the work of governments and NGOs around the world.

"With our extensive network, charter capabilities and extensive, young and modern fleet, as well as support from our dedicated teams worldwide, we are able to support disaster-stricken areas swiftly," he added.

As part of the renewed contract that is in effect until April 2025, the cargo carrier is expected to mobilize 500 tonnes of relief supplies free of charge.

Steve Smith, president and CEO of Airlink, noted that the partnership allows both companies to bring aid to millions of people.

"The reach of Qatar Airways Cargo network, and the commitment of the Qatar team, has made it possible for Airlink and our partner network of humanitarian organizations to greatly expand the number of places and people we can help," Smith said.

During the pandemic, Qatar Airways Cargo introduced its WeQare programme, its sustainability programme, which consists of a series of positive and impactful actions based on the core pillars of sustainability — environment, society, economy and culture. 

The carrier has launched four chapters so far under this programme, with more chapters to be launched in the coming months. Airlink has a strong Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework as well that perfectly aligns with Qatar Airways Cargo's ESG framework.