Avianca Cargo the latest airline to run cargo-only PAX flights

Avianca Cargo has become the latest carrier to operate cargo-only flights using passenger aircraft to support supply chains which have been disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Yesterday (March 27), Avianca Cargo used a Boeing 787-800 passenger aircraft to transport nearly 20 tons of essential cargo in the bellyhold, from Colombia to John F Kennedy International. There were no passengers onboard the aircraft.

The crew and ground staff were provided with protective clothing, antibacterial gel, gloves, digital thermometers and cleaning kits to maximise their safety. The crew also deep cleaned the aircraft after the cargo had been delivered to ensure it is safe for future use.

“Achieving this operation has been a major logistical challenge for Avianca,” said Kurt Schosinsky, managing director of Avianca Cargo.

“Prioritising the safety of our personnel and operation, we have adapted to the regulations of the different countries to continue to provide our cargo services uninterrupted.

“With this first flight on a passenger aircraft, we managed to transport about 20 tons of necessities on each journey.” 

Avianca Cargo currently has six A330-200F freighters, as well as five aircraft from its affiliated company AeroUnion: three A300-600s, and two B767-200s. The carrier’s fleet serves airports in Dallas, Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Miami, Madrid, Brussels and other major Latin American cities.

• Virgin Atlantic operates it first cargo-only charter

• Air Canada sets booking policy for cargo-only passenger aircraft

• Etihad to operate cargo-only service utilising B787-10 passenger aircraft

• Virgin Atlantic operates it first cargo-only charter

• Airlines fill passenger seats with cargo to meet demand