TRANSPORT OF HUMANITARIAN AID AND TECHNICAL AND MATERIAL RESOURCES: AIR BRIDGE H1-H5 DURING THE AUGUST 2023 FLOODS

Abstract

This article deals with the transport of humanitarian aid, and material and technical resources in the context of establishing an air bridge between Slovenj Gradec Airport and the off-airport location of Mežica Sports Park. The aim of the paper is to describe the situation, the organization of security, and the work methods at the H5 site in order to analyse the frequency of take-offs and landings and the type of aircraft used in the period from 4 to 15 August 2023, and to propose improvements. The paper is based on primary data sources, the descriptive method, descriptive statistical analysis and the case study method. During the period under consideration, a total of 76 aircraft landings and take-offs took place at H5. Aircraft assistance was provided by Austria, Hungary, Germany, Serbia, and Spain. Due to the international composition of the crews of the participating aircraft or the technical characteristics of the individual aircraft, the organization and execution of the flight operations presented a parti­cular challenge to the planners and participants, and required detailed planning and preparation. Due to the high intensity of aircraft take-offs/landings and the different technical characteristics of the aircraft, it was necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft operations, to strictly follow the basic safety rules, and to ensure a controlled approach to the aircraft. No serious injuries were reported during the „air bridge“ activities.