PEACHTREE CITY, Ga., Jan. 20 (UPI) -- U.S. and Azerbaijani air service companies are working together to transport outsized cargo loads for the U.S. military.
An agreement between World Airways and Silk Way Airlines has been signed and freight services are in effect as of this month, said Global Aviation Holdings, the parent company of World Airways.
"Silk Way's experience and expertise in handling outsized cargo, especially to non-traditional destinations, is a great addition to our military support program," said Rob Binns, Global's chairman and chief executive officer. "We are pleased to be teaming with them for this critical cargo service."
World Airways has supported the U.S. military since 1955, providing passenger and cargo services. It flies B747-400 freighters and MD-11 passenger and cargo aircraft. North American Airlines, another Global Aviation subsidiary, also flies military cargo and personnel.
Azerbaijan's Silk Way Airlines operates scheduled and charter flights Iraq, Afghanistan and other destinations worldwide using Russian-made Ilyushin-76s, Antonov An-12s and Boeing 747-400 freighters.
Cargo carried includes heavy industrial equipment, materials for construction, vehicles and equipment for the oil and gas industry.
"World Airways complements Silk Way's capabilities given its many years of experience dealing with the U.S. Military," said Silk Way Airlines President Zaur Akhundov. "We are looking forward to offering additional services to the U.S. military that are naturally complementary to World, North American, and Silk Way's existing routes as well as the natural advantages offered by the Baku hub."
