Virgin’s emergency cargo

Gatwick-based Virgin Atlantic is playing its part in flying in crucial medical supplies needed by the NHS.

Working in conjunction with the Virgin Group’s not-for-profit foundation, Virgin Unite, a series of special charter flight have operated over the last several weeks from Shanghai to London, bringing in essential medical supplies and PPE equipment for the National Health Service.

Dominic Kennedy, managing director of Virgin Atlantic Cargo, commented: “We are incredibly grateful to the NHS for everything they are doing for the nation in extremely challenging circumstances, as they respond to the COVID-19 crisis. We’re pleased we can play a part in supporting them, by bringing crucial supplies into the UK.  With special thanks to the British Embassy in Beijing, the CAA and the UK Government in expediting clearances to make this possible.  Thanks also to Guy’s and St Thomas’ for their support in helping to organise this.”

The emergence of COVID-19 has led to Virgin Atlantic operating cargo-only flights, a first for the airline since its launch in 1984.  Normally the airline transports over 200,000 tonnes of freight, but in the bellies of its wide-bodied aircraft.  With these flights the CAA has organised special exemptions from the imposed travel restrictions for pilots and cabin crew.

www.virginatlantic.com

www.virginatlanticcargo.com

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