This archive report was first published on 5 June 2020.
On 19 May 2020, Qatar Airways and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) signed a historic partnership to deliver humanitarian relief to displaced communities globally. The two-year agreement, which will run through May 2022, marks a significant synergy between the airline and the UN agency.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect communities worldwide, Qatar Airways is committed to providing aid to those in need. With a fleet of over 200 aircraft, the airline will utilize its hub-and-spoke network at Hamad International Airport in Doha to transport essential supplies, including water, medical care, and hygiene materials.
Speaking about the partnership, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker said: “We are incredibly proud to join efforts with UNHCR to provide relief aid to people and communities most in need. By having a robust international network, we are pleased to be able to give a helping hand to support this great cause.”
UNHCR's Senior Advisor and Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries, Khaled Khalifa, added: “Our primary focus at UNHCR is to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of the most marginalized and vulnerable members of society. This partnership with Qatar Airways is crucial in helping us achieve this goal.”
Under the partnership, Qatar Airways will provide air cargo services for up to 400,000Kgs of essential supplies, which will be distributed to UNHCR operations worldwide. The airline's freight division has significantly increased operations to support global trade and the transport of essential supplies and relief goods to impacted regions.
