United Cargo, a humanitarian aid organisation, Airlink Inc., and U.S.-based NPO, Good360, partnered to bring crucial relief supplies to the thousands of people affected by the devastating Kona Low storms in Hawaii.
Following back-to-back storms across Maui and Oahu and the subsequent displacement of more than 10,000 residents whose homes were lost or damaged in the many severe flash floods and landslides, United Cargo, Airlink, and Good360 quickly began coordinating relief response.
On April 10, a United Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner left Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) bound for Kahului Airport (OGG).
On board were tons of essential items such as generators, baby wipes, hygiene supplies and goods all donated to Good360 to provide immediate relief and support efforts to fortify impacted communities against additional storms. The ongoing dangerous weather continues to disrupt power, housing, and access to services.
Chris Busch, United Managing Director, Cargo, Americas, explained: “When disaster hits, the speed at which emergency aid supplies are brought in is crucial to mitigating further consequences.
“Our long-standing partnership with Airlink Inc. means that we now have a well-orchestrated response process whenever a crisis occurs.
“United Airlines ensures that the cargo capacity is made available and supplies are quickly built up, cleared for transport, and loaded. ‘Good leads the way’ – never more so when we can actively contribute to helping people in need.
“It was our duty and honour to support Good360 and Airlink Inc. in the Kona Low response operations.”
Paloma Adams-Allen, Airlink President & CEO, said: “This is the power of aviation and partnership, personified.
“These critical shipments are reaching families in Hawaii faster and more efficiently, thanks to United generously airlifting the cargo we coordinated with Good360.
Paloma Adams-Allen, Airlink President & CEO, said: “We are proud to provide vital supplies for communities during these historic floods, and remain in constant communication with our trusted partners on the ground and in the air, ready to prepare and assist in the next disaster.
A representative from Good360 added: “This shipment of generators and baby wipes will make a tangible difference for affected families in the coming days.
“We are connecting local nonprofits with the products they know their communities need most, ensuring the right resources reach the right people at the right time.”