SunExpress transports earthquake relief supplies to Turkey

Antalya-based SunExpress has operated 236 relief flights to Turkey, transporting supplies and rescue workers to areas hit by the recent devastating earthquakes.

The joint venture of Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines has taken 5,600 rescue workers and medical personnel to the region affected by the quakes – and evacuated nearly 12,500 people affected by the disaster.

Working with Turkish authorities, SunExpress has donated and transported more than 188 tonnes of humanitarian aid supplies from around Turkey to the affected region.

More: Jet2holidays mobilises Turkey earthquake emergency aid support

Max Kownatzki, SunExpress chief executive, said: “Everyone in the SunExpress family is devastated and shocked about the horrific tragedy that happened in Turkey and Syria.

“There was absolutely no question that we would immediately jump to action to the best of our abilities and help the brave and hard-working rescue teams and those affected by the earthquakes.

“We have converted our regular passenger flights to relief and rescue air travel so that medical and material aid can arrive and evacuations can be done as quickly as possible.

“We have also created an airbridge from Germany to Turkey in order to transport the countless donations we are receiving to further support the relief efforts.”

Other airlines such as Virgin Atlantic have also transported supplies to the disaster zone, while operators such as Jet2holidays, Tui and Intrepid Travel have also offered support and funds.

More: Virgin Atlantic transports supplies to help Turkey earthquake relief effort