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Aug 23 2023

Humanitarian aid to wildfire-afflicted Hawaii facilitated by the SAC


Pápa, 22 August 2023 – The Strategic Airlift Capability (SAC) has recently completed an Emergency Response Mission, offering much-needed assistance to those affected by wildfires in Maui, Hawaii by transporting 34.5 tonnes of foldable housing.

Upon receiving a request from the Hungarian Defense Forces (HDF) on 17 August, the SAC rapidly mobilized to fulfil the critical emergency operation. Through rapid planning and cooperation, Hungary transported 18 foldable housing units, weighing 34.5 tonnes, to HDF's 47th Air Base in Pápa by the next day - 18 August.

Utilizing a Boeing Globemaster C-17 aircraft from its fleet, SAC launched the journey on the morning of 19 August. By the afternoon of 21 August, the foldable housing units reached Kahului Airport, Maui, Hawaii.

As a part of a larger initiative steered by Hungary, a total of 250 foldable units are set to be transported to Hawaii. These units, designed as immediate housing solutions, comfortably house families. They are equipped with essential amenities such as a kitchen and bathroom. SAC's swift delivery of the first installment of these units forms a pivotal part of this relief effort.

From request to landing, it took Hungary, the SAC, and their partners four days to deliver cargo to the opposite corner of the globe – a testament of the SAC’s swift and agile operations.

The mission serves as an example of SAC's role in responding to emergencies and providing airlift support for its Member Nations when and where it's needed.

Story and photos by Strategic Airlift Capability (SAC)

Preparing foldable housing units at 47th Air Base in Pápa.
Our crew was met with the famous Hawaiian hospitality after a very long time in the air.
Moving 34.5 tonnes was a team effort in Maui.