by Sahar Elkabbash
Qatar Airways Cargo has launched a ‘1 Million Kilos’ initiative as a part of its We Qare sustainability project, which focuses on economy, environment, society and culture.
From this month until the end of December 2020, charities will be able to use the services of Qatar Airways Cargo to transport humanitarian aid and medical supplies all over the world, free of charge. Up to 1 million kilos of freight allowance have been earmarked for the project.
Guillaume Halleux, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways, says: “This action was triggered by the COVID-19 crisis. The pandemic is a tragedy for millions of people, and we looked for ways how we, as an airline, could help those in the greatest difficulty.
“This solution — shipping 1 million kilos of cargo free of charge — is a firm commitment for Qatar Airways Cargo. More than just words, we wanted to act and to adopt a comprehensive approach based on actions for the future.”
According to the World Bank, air freight rates generally range from $1.50 to $4.50 per kilogram, while the value of air cargo typically exceeds $4 per kilogram. So for charities on a tight budget, the project could save significant funds.
The Qatar Airways Cargo fleet includes two Boeing 747–8 freighters, 21 Boeing 777 freighters and five Airbus A330 freighters, which serve more than 60 freighter destinations worldwide. The airline describes the project as “unprecedented” and says that Qatar Airways Cargo is “pioneering the future, sustainable and socially responsible air cargo industry”.
