New humanitarian partnerships are on the fly in some parts of Africa where access to healthcare is often hindered by poor infrastructure and vast distances.
This joint initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize humanitarian logistics to provide medical supplies wherever necessary. The project combines Frontières' operational expertise in humanitarian aviation with Windracers' heavy-duty aircraft technology, an integrated, proprietary autopilot system and mission control software.
At the heart of this stage is the Windracers Ultra Mk2. This is a long distance self-flight cargo aircraft with a weight that can transport useful loads of up to 150 kg over a range of up to 1,000 km. The Windracers platform is dual use, multi-mission, and offers an optional 3-door drop bay floor for safe and accurate parachute when needed. Over the coming weeks, and thanks to cold chain innovations, it will undergo trials focused on providing remote vaccines and other temperature-sensitive medical supplies.
By integrating local training, regulatory compliance and environmental sustainability, Aviation aims to become the Frontières-Windracers partnership. This innovation provides a path to providing more efficient, greener and more equitable aid.
The project represents a potential turning point for humanitarian logistics in Africa. By combining operational experiences with cutting-edge drone technology, we develop solutions that are innovative and based on the realities of the field. It's about providing access to healthcare regardless of distance. Stephane Blandino, Project Manager at Aviation Sans Frontières
“We're committed to providing a range of services to our customers,” said Stephen Wright, founder and group executive chairman of Windracers. I developed Ultra with this idea in mind. We have already introduced this in Malawi. It has established a dedicated operating foundation to support humanitarian and development missions. This contract with Aviation Sans Frontières is based on that experience and we are extremely proud that the Windracers team will have the opportunity to work with Aviation Sans Frontières to make this mission a reality. ”
