British Airways, IAG Cargo, and multiple aid organizations have joined forces to deliver 34 tons of critical supplies to Pakistan following the devastating flood crisis. British Airways’ customers have also donated over £176,000 to the cause through onboard collection.
On Monday (October 3, 2022), British Airways announced that in partnership with IAG Cargo and multiple aid organizations, the carrier has delivered 34 tons of emergency aid to Islamabad, Pakistan, following the devastating flood crisis. The nationwide flooding has impacted more than 33 million people, approximately 15 percent of Pakistan’s population, and nearly 500,000 people have been displaced. The Government of Pakistan estimates that around one-third of the country is under water, an area the size of the UK. Schools, roads crops and jobs have all been devastated, and conditions are expected to worsen as rain continues, leaving many communities without clean water, food and shelter.
In Monday’s announcement, British Airways’ Director of Sustainability, Carrie Harris, said,
“We’re all 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 onboard collection envelopes to support the relief efforts in Pakistan. In just four weeks our customers and colleagues have generously helped raise more than £176,000 for the DEC’s Pakistan Flood Appeal. Colleagues across the airline have been donating via Payroll Giving. We’re continuing to work through all our community investment channels to offer further support where it’s needed.”
Also commenting on the relief efforts, IAG Cargo’s Chief Commercial Officer, John Cheetham, added,
“We have all seen the devastating impact of the horrendous floods in Pakistan that are impacting the lives of so many. 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.”
British Airways' Pakistan Aid Flight Cabin Crew With Company CEO, Sean Doyle - Courtesy British Airways
The largest single consignment of aid, more than eight tons, was transported on Sunday, September 25, 2022, and included food, tents, clothing and critical medical supplies. The flight was operated by a team of specially selected cabin crew members who all have a personal connection to Pakistan. All of the aid was carried free of charge by British Airways and IAG Cargo, and has been donated by key charity partners, including Football for Peace and Khalsa Aid. An additional 21 tons of aid will be flown to Pakistan over the next few weeks. British Airways has also been working with the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) to help aid workers get to Pakistan.
Source: British Airways