Virgin Atlantic has operates its first ever cargo only charter, transporting medical and pharmaceutical goods from London to New York
As the transatlantic passenger flight ban bites Virgin Atlantic operated its first ever cargo only charter amidst the operational challenges brought by the Covid-19 upon the aviation industry.
The VS698 from London Heathrow for New York JFK on 22nd March created history for the airline as it departed with two pilots, one cabin crew member and a hold filled with 12490 kilograms of pharmaceutical and medical supplies.
With many airlines cancelling flights, there has been a dramatic decrease in cargo space available but global trade continues, and the Virgin Atlantic cargo team continues to operate helping both regular and new customers keep their freight moving around the world.
Dominic Kennedy, managing director of Virgin Atlantic Cargo said: “Watching Virgin Atlantic’s inaugural cargo-only charter take off yesterday at London Heathrow added to a feeling of immense pride towards the herculean effort of our Cargo team. Making the flight happen, in such short notice and in such challenging times, reaffirms the fact that we have one of the best teamsin the sky supporting supply chains across the globe.”