The world’s leading airlines are backing a landmark UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) initiative to prioritize delivery of Covid-19 vaccines, essential medicines and other critical supplies across the globe, the organization said Monday, February 15.

More than 10 airlines are signing agreements with the UN agency to support its ‘Humanitarian Airfreight Initiative’, which will also act as a global logistics preparedness mechanism for other humanitarian and health crises over the longer term. 

“Delivery of these life-saving vaccines is a monumental and complex undertaking, considering the sheer volumes that need to be transported, the cold chain requirements, the number of expected deliveries and the diversity of routes” said Etleva Kadilli, Director of UNICEF Supply Division.

Airlines covering routes to over 100 countries will support the COVAX Facility – the global effort aimed at equitable access to Covid-19 vaccines. In addition to prioritizing the shipments of life-saving supplies, the airlines will take measures, such as temperature control and security, while also adding freight capacity to routes, as needed.