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More than 27 tons of emergency supplies have been flown from the Dominican Republic to Venezuela in a coordinated logistics operation supporting communities affected by recent earthquakes.

DP World, working through Air Cargo Hub Punta Cana, partnered with UniWorld Air Cargo, Grupo Velutini and Athiopica to complete two humanitarian relief flights between Punta Cana and Caracas.

The shipments included medical equipment, medicines, infant care products, hydration beverages, canned food and rescue supplies. The partners said the cargo reflected urgent needs identified following the disaster.

The operation placed air cargo infrastructure, consolidation services and aircraft capacity at the centre of the emergency response. When roads, warehouses and local distribution networks face disruption, the ability to assemble and move relief cargo quickly can become as important as the donated goods themselves.

Punta Cana Hub Coordinates Relief Cargo

Air Cargo Hub Punta Cana coordinated logistics management, cargo processing and operational support for the flights. The hub is a joint logistics platform developed by DP World and Grupo Puntacana.

Grupo Velutini, working with Athiopica, handled the collection, sorting, repackaging and consolidation of donated supplies. UniWorld Air Cargo provided the aircraft capacity needed to carry the shipments to Venezuela.

The operation effectively created a temporary relief supply chain, connecting collection points in the Dominican Republic with communities requiring assistance in Venezuela.

Like pieces in a relay race, each partner was responsible for a separate stage. Donations had to be collected, checked, packed, processed at the airport, loaded onto aircraft and transferred to organizations capable of distributing them after arrival.

A delay at any one point could have slowed the entire movement.

Integrated Logistics Supports Emergency Response

Manuel Martínez, CEO of DP World’s operations in the Dominican Republic, said logistics had a wider role than simply transporting cargo.

“At DP World, we believe logistics is about more than moving cargo. It is about connecting people and supporting communities, particularly when it matters most,” Martínez said.

He said the company and its partners used their infrastructure and operational experience to move essential supplies quickly and efficiently.

Martínez also credited the cooperation between the companies and organizations involved, describing the initiative as an example of what different sectors could achieve by working toward a shared objective.

The relief flights demonstrate how existing commercial cargo platforms can be redirected during emergencies. Warehousing, cargo handling, customs coordination and aircraft availability are normally used to support trade, but the same systems can provide an immediate response route when disaster strikes.

Volunteers Prepare Shipments for Caracas

Luis Emilio Velutini, CEO of Grupo Velutini, said BlueMall was established as a collection centre for donated goods.

Grupo Velutini participated throughout the preparation process, including collection, sorting, repackaging and shipment preparation. Dozens of volunteers supported the effort, while Athiopica helped ensure the supplies were directed toward affected communities.

“For Grupo Velutini, it was essential to rise to the occasion during such a difficult time for Venezuela,” Velutini said.

He added that the operation showed what could be achieved when companies, volunteers and humanitarian organizations combined their resources.

Air Cargo Capacity Becomes Critical Link

Romen González, CEO of UniWorld Air Cargo, said air cargo operators had responsibilities extending beyond their regular transport activities.

“When communities face emergencies, it is our responsibility to put our operational capabilities at the service of those who need them most,” González said.

The two flights underline the speed advantage offered by aviation during disaster response. Ships can carry considerably larger volumes, but aircraft can place medicines, rescue equipment and infant supplies closer to affected areas within hours rather than days.

For earthquake affected communities waiting for medical equipment or drinking supplies, what matters more than the size of the shipment? Often, it is how quickly the first load reaches the ground.

DP World said the operation formed part of its broader commitment to supporting people in Venezuela following the earthquakes.

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Robertha Mcdonald