Cargolux has dispatched 75,000 face masks and 44,000 sanitary wipes on its flight to Zhengzhou to combat the coronavirus.

The shipment was made in coordination with Luxembourg’s Ministry of Mobility and Public Works.

Luxembourg-based all-cargo airline Cargolux says the products are intended for distribution amongst the airline’s business partners in its Zhengzhou hub as a mark of support in these challenging times.

“This donation is a token of our appreciation for the long-lasting partnerships we have enjoyed over the years. Our business partners in Zhengzhou have shown unwavering dedication and support for our operations.”, president and CEO of Cargolux, Richard Forson commented.

Aviation sector fighting the virus

The aviation industry is fighting to prevent the spreading of the coronavirus. On 2 February, Qatar Airways Cargo delivered its first batch of critical medical relief to Shanghai that included 100,000 medical-grade N95 respiratory masks and 2,700 medical-grade disposable latex gloves.

Medical supplies donated by Chinese communities worldwide will be flown by Qatar Airways Cargo freighters through its global network of 170 destinations to its China cargo gateways in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Macau.

Impact on air cargo

Restrictions enforced by countries due to the coronavirus are expected to have an impact on the air cargo sector. IATA’s director general and CEO, Alexandre de Juniac commented: “With all the restrictions being put in place, it will certainly be a drag on economic growth. And, for sure, 2020 will be another challenging year for the air cargo business.”

Cargolux says it is continuously monitoring the situation in China and has adapted its flight schedule to adjust to the market situation. The airline says its service to China is expected to increase over the coming weeks to accommodate the resumption of factory production.

According to Cargolux, the flights will be operated in accordance with the WHO and other regulatory bodies’ recommendations in addition to Cargolux’s own restrictions that include no crew layovers in China.

Learn more about Cargolux.