Following massive explosions leveling the Port of Beirut and nearby portions of the city in August, Airlink partnered with Qatar Airways to transport critical medical supplies to local hospitals.
The explosions, which left 200 dead and 6,500 people injured, overwhelmed healthcare systems already burdened by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, Airlink and Qatar Airways transported free-of-charge nearly 7,000 pounds of supplies for Cleveland-based nonprofit MedWish International. The organization redirects surplus medical supplies and equipment to provide humanitarian aid to individuals in need.
“The tragedy in Beirut put a massive strain on the local healthcare system, which is struggling to provide care to the thousands who have been injured as a result of the blasts,” said MedWish International Executive Director Carolina Masri. “Airlink’s team has been incredible and with their help we were able to quickly ship critically needed supplies to seven affected hospitals and hope to assist Beirut throughout the long-term recovery process.”
As part of its mission to mobilize the aviation community in times of disaster, Airlink and its partner airlines have transported relief workers and more than 65,000 pounds of aid for 12 nonprofit organizations responding to the Beirut crisis. The organizations are not only providing relief to those impacted in Beirut, but also addressing increased human vulnerability due to Lebanon’s ongoing economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.
