Words by Isabel O’Brien
A new international initiative, the Food and Farm for Health project, will harness the power of air cargo to tackle two urgent global challenges: limited access to healthcare and struggling agriculatural economies.
The project, led by Pharma.Aero, the International Air Cargo Association (TIACA), the Cool Chain Association and the UK-based Humanitarian Logistics Association, aims to improve medical supply routes and boost trade with global markets for farming communities in low- and middle-income countries.
At the heart of the initiative is an innovative logistics model: using air cargo flights to deliver vital pharmaceuticals and medical supplies into underserved regions, while utilising return flights to export perishable agricultural produce, such as fruit, vegetables and flowers-from local farmers to Western markets. This twofold approach not only accelerates the delivery of life-saving medicines, but also creates new economic opportunities for rural farmers, making trade routes more efficient and cost-effective.
Frank Van Gelder, Secretary General, Pharma.Aero, described the project as a response to a “critical gap” in both healthcare provision and economic opportunity. “By utilising available cargo space on return flights, we create a more cost-effective, efficient trade route. This approach not only ensures faster access to essential medicines and vaccines, but also opens new market opportunities for farmers, boosting local economies and providing better access to international markets,” he said.
Steven Polmans, Chair, TIACA, emphasised the broader significance for the air cargo sector: “Air cargo is more than a mode of transport – it’s a critical lifeline for economies and communities across the globe. From Kenya’s flower exports supporting millions of jobs to India’s seafood sector driving billions in trade, our work confirms that airfreight is a catalyst for opportunity, health and resilience.”
The project will also undertake a global analysis of air cargo movements, assessing their economic impact and their role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, otherwise known as SDGs. Experts in pharmaceutical logistics, humanitarian supply chains and temperature-sensitive freight will collaborate to provide evidence-based recommendations for sustainable change.
The Food and Farm for Health project reflects a growing trend: the integration of logistics innovation with global health and development aims, seeking to deliver both economic and humanitarian benefits where they are needed most.
