Airlines have been dedicating flights to Kuwait to deliver fresh fruit and vegetables as the aviation industry remains disrupted by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The move is aimed at maintaining fresh produce stocks in supermarkets and ensuring a streamlined food supply to citizens. Recently, Jazeera Airways launched an alternative supply route to Kuwait, highlighting how airlines are changing to adapt to pressures from traditional logistics channels.
Corridor through Saudi Arabia
The airline flew 4.5 tonnes of fresh fruits and vegetables from Chennai to Kuwait using a combined land route via Saudi Arabia. The cargo was first shipped to Saudi Arabia’s Kesuma Airport and then shipped overland to Kuwait. The business helps maintain access to perishable goods that depend on speed and reliability. It also helps maintain supply chains despite direct routes being affected.
Why does imported food have to be flown to Kuwait?
What does this mean for Kuwaiti customers?
Ensuring a stable supply of fresh produce is not only about continuing the supply chain, it also helps limit the risk of shortages. Additionally, it helps avoid large fluctuations in local market prices. Recently, residents of the UAE have reported significant increases in commodity prices, with tomatoes selling for Dh10 per kilogram and onions for Dh7. However, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism emphasized that the affected goods have been supplied to the market in “large quantities” to ensure stable supply. Operations such as these can provide short-term relief, especially for essential items such as fruits and vegetables that rely on uninterrupted shipping.
Plans to import more food
Disruptions are expected to continue as long as the war continues, so these corridors are likely to continue to be used to keep supply chains stable and ensure consumers have access to daily food without major disruption.
