Volga-Dnepr's sequential loading reduces ground handling time by six hours

Nov 27, 2018: All cargo carrier Volga-Dnepr Airlines has performed another unique delivery involving the sequential loading of two IL-76TD-90VD freighters to expedite the cargo’s arrival in China.

In its official release, the airline stated, “Volga-Dnepr’s specialists successfully used the airline’s unique technology and special loading equipment to complete the loading of both flights using an extension ramp, ensuring the transportation was completed within the shortest time frames.”

Volga-Dnepr’s team was able to decrease the overall loading time for both flights at their departure and arrival airports by six hours or 40 percent.

Both charters originated in Orebro, Sweden, and were destined for two cities in China. The shipment consisted of sensitive equipment and its dimensions of 6700?3200?2750mm and total weight of 21 tonnes added to the complexity of the loading process.

“With two charter flights operating from the same airport, Volga-Dnepr was able to accelerate the delivery time by organising sequential loading procedures involving aircraft towing and avoiding having to dismantle the loading ramp between flights,” added the airline.

It also gained approval for two neighboring parking slots at the apron, timing the loading/offloading with airport authorities and the customer’s representatives, obtaining flight permits for overflown countries, coordinating the aircraft arrival time, and ensuring availability of a mobile crane, pushback tugs and loading equipment.

In addition to the contribution of Volga-Dnepr’s personnel, the flights also benefited from the airline’s ability to transport equipment essential for loading procedures from its close by operating base in Leipzig, Germany.