A UPS cargo plane travelling from Cologne to Shanghai was forced to make an emergency diversion to Delhi on Saturday due to issues with unreliable airspeed and the availability of a maintenance team at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. The Boeing 747 UPS10 aircraft landed safely in the Indian capital, where the necessary resources were available to address the aircraft's problems.
"UPS Airlines cargo flight from Cologne, Germany to Shanghai, China requested diversion to Delhi due to unreliable airspeed and availability of maintenance team at Delhi. The flight landed safely," ANI quoted Delhi Airport sources as saying.
Delhi a Suitable Destination
Delhi was chosen as the emergency diversion point due to its capacity to handle such situations. The airport boasts sufficient resources and expertise to promptly resolve maintenance issues, making it an ideal location for UPS to address the problems with the aircraft. Additionally, Delhi has become an important destination for UPS, thanks in part to the availability of Boeing 747 aircraft, including those from Air India's fleet.
UPS Operations in India
UPS initiated its freighter aircraft services from Delhi Airport around four years ago. The company began operating six weekly flights from Delhi using its largest freighter aircraft, the Boeing 747-8F, which arrived from Bangkok. UPS deploys various aircraft models, including Boeing's B747-400, B747-8, and B767, for its operations.
Delhi Airport's Capabilities
Delhi Airport features two advanced integrated cargo terminals and an on-airport logistics center covering 150 acres. These facilities are equipped to handle a wide range of cargo types, including textiles, electronics, perishables, pharmaceuticals, and project cargo. As part of its Phase 3A expansion project, the airport is currently constructing a fourth runway to enhance its capabilities further. With a vast network connecting 78 international and 71 domestic destinations, served by 65 air carriers and 17 freighter airlines, Delhi Airport stands as a major hub for global air travel.
The prompt response and availability of necessary resources at Delhi Airport allowed for the safe landing and subsequent maintenance of the UPS cargo plane, ensuring the smooth continuation of the company's operations.
