3 April 2020: In a recently conducted COVID-19 mission, crew from the military aircraft operation of Airbus Defence and Space in Spain brought four million face masks and medical supplies from China to Europe for use by health systems and caregivers in France, Germany, Spain and United Kingdom. The 36-hour mission flew in A330-300 aircraft that ultimately will be converted into an A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) for a customer.
Carlos Pinilla, the Airbus Defence and Space pilot, who led this air-bridge, said," An all-volunteer crew was assembled by balancing the need for personnel on the extended-duration mission with precautions on limiting their exposure. Aboard the aircraft were five pilots, one flight test engineer, two test flight engineers and two ground crew specialists."
"Everyone brought a true team spirit attitude in preparing and performing this mission. Being able to support our countries in difficult times was a huge morale booster for all."
He further added, "The Spanish Air Force was extraordinarily cooperative and supportive at all times."