Volga-Dnepr carries satellites for affordable internet project

Volga-Dnepr Airlines has successfully completed the first delivery of satellites for the OneWeb constellation project that aims to provide affordable internet access across the globe.
In cooperation with Volga-Dnepr’s partner, Bolloré Logistics, one of the airline’s An-124-100 freighters delivered six satellites from their manufacturing facility in Toulouse, France, to Cayenne in French Guiana.
The satellites were transported in two special containers, with an overall payload of approximately 30 tonnes.
On arrival in French Guiana, OneWeb’s sophisticated equipment was delivered to its final point of destination in Kourou, with the first satellite launch scheduled for the middle of February. The satellites will operate in near-polar, 1,200km LEO orbit.
Axel Kaldschmidt, global Director Aerospace of Volga-Dnepr Group, said: "As an air cargo operator, we understand all too well how important stable internet access is, with customers relying on real-time cargo shipment data, airline specialists communicating through internet systems to guarantee cost-effective and timely deliveries, and innovative technologies being facilitated through the development of internet solutions."
In 2018, the company performed more than 55 flights carrying satellites and related equipment, contributing to the development of the space industry.