JAF flies 14 helicopters with aid to Gaza

AMMAN, GAZA — As part of Jordan's ongoing efforts to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip, 14 helicopters departed from King Abdullah II Air Base on Tuesday, transporting critical supplies as part of the air bridge established last week.

The aircraft carried 15 tonnes of humanitarian and relief supplies, in cooperation with the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation and several partner countries, bringing total aid to about 100 tonnes that were ferried to the Kosovim site in Gaza's Al Qarara area and delivered to those in need in the Strip, according to a Jordan Armed Forces–Arab Army (JAF) statement.

The JAF reiterated its commitment to continuing the delivery of humanitarian and medical aid through the air bridge, expediting the transport of critical supplies, particularly medical treatments and equipment, to Gaza.

Since the launch of the air bridge, 86 Jordanian aircraft, alongside 9 Italian helicopters, have contributed to this vital operation, demonstrating international cooperation in response to the crisis.

The Jordan Times accompanied the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) on this mission, providing a firsthand look at the operation and the efforts involved.

The operation began at precisely 10:13am when the Black Hawk helicopters took off, carrying a crew of six: four from RJAF and two from the JAF Special Forces.

As the helicopters soared over the landscape, the personnel onboard were focused on the important task ahead—delivering essential supplies to Gaza.

After one hour of flight, the helicopters made a refuelling stop at Ghor Assafi at 11:00 am. This brief pause allowed the helicopters to ensure they were prepared for the rest of the journey ahead.

The team remained in high spirits, knowing that each step was bringing them closer to providing much-needed relief to those in Gaza.

By 12:00 pm, the helicopters had arrived at the Kosovim site in Gaza’s Al-Qarara area, where they successfully delivered the humanitarian aid.

The site was abuzz with activity as the supplies were offloaded and quickly distributed to those in need.

Following the successful delivery, the helicopters made their way back for another refuelling stop before continuing their return journey to King Abdullah II Air Base, arriving at 13:44 pm.