Astral moves vital relief supplies to Bunia

Astral Aviation Ltd has launched the transportation of 100 tonnes of vital humanitarian relief supplies from Nairobi, Kenya, to Bunia in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) using its Boeing 737-400 Freighter.

The cargo originated in Europe and was flown from Liège to Nairobi aboard a Boeing 747 freighter operated by interline partner Network Airline Services before being transferred to Astral Aviation for onward delivery to Bunia. The tailored airlift solution was required because Bunia Airport is unable to accommodate widebody freighter aircraft.

The operation highlights the critical role of collaboration in humanitarian logistics. Astral Aviation acknowledged the support of partners including Scan Global Logistics, AVICO Group, Network Airline Services, Celebi Aviation, airport authorities, regulators, and other stakeholders who helped facilitate the mission.

Astral Aviation has extensive experience supporting humanitarian efforts across Africa, including responses to Ebola, COVID-19, and cholera outbreaks. The airline continues to prioritize safety, security, regulatory compliance, and crew welfare in all its operations.

As humanitarian needs persist across the continent, the company emphasized the importance of strong partnerships and African-led logistics solutions in ensuring aid reaches affected communities quickly, safely, and efficiently.

Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation, said, “This operation highlights the importance of strong partnerships across the air cargo and logistics value chain. No single organization can address humanitarian challenges alone. The successful movement of these relief supplies from Europe to Eastern DRC reflects the power of collaboration between airlines, freight forwarders, logistics specialists, airport stakeholders, and humanitarian partners working towards a common objective.”

Safety, security, and regulatory compliance remain top priorities throughout the operation. Astral Aviation has coordinated closely with aviation regulators, public health agencies, airport authorities, and ground handling partners in both Kenya and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to ensure adherence to all operational, safety, security, and biosecurity standards. The airline has also maintained a strong focus on crew welfare and the safe, secure handling of cargo at every stage of the mission, said Philip Omondi, Head of Safety and Quality at Astral Aviation.