15 January 2010

BA offers to fly aid to Haiti

British Airways has offered aid agencies an aircraft to fly emergency supplies and equipment to earthquake hit Haiti.

A Boeing 747 with capacity for up to 50 tonnes of cargo is standing by to fly out tomorrow (Saturday) crewed by volunteer pilots and cabin crew.

The airline has also pledged £300,000 from its UNICEF Change For Good passenger donations scheme and the £250,000 cost of the aircraft including fuel costs.

BA chief executive Willie Walsh said: "The situation in Haiti is desperate and we must do what we can to help.

"We have a Boeing 747 crewed and ready to fly and volunteer staff from across the airline prepared to support the rescue effort.

"Time is of the essence and we must move swiftly to help those devastated by this disaster."

*See linked Haiti news.

by Phil Davies

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Your Comments (3)

BA

Great news BA, well done...

By James Roberts, Monday, January 18, 2010
It may encourage others

Why shouldn't BA make such an announcement both for an attempt to gain positive PR and encourage others to do the same. Do you blame Royal Caribbean for their announcements about aid through Labadee as well?

By Ian Henderson, Friday, January 15, 2010
Is it just the cynic in me...

...or does anyone else think this is a bit of a publicity stunt on the part of BA to try and improve their damaged image? Yes, the situation in Haiti is dreadful and help is needed - but true charity doesn't need to be announced in a press release!

By Shuna Marr, Friday, January 15, 2010