The global air charter specialist Chapman Freeborn’s Aviation Emergency Services team has confirmed its readiness to support emergency evacuations, first responder transport, and humanitarian aid deliveries to regions affected by Hurricane Melissa. The major storm reached Category 5 strength yesterday but has since weakened to Category 4 as it continues moving toward Jamaica, with recent projections indicating it will eventually approach Cuba and the Bahamas.

The Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1st and ends around November 30th. During this period, hurricanes cause devastation to communities in the region. This year’s season is predicted to rival that of 2024, which featured 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and 5 major hurricanes.

Upon making landfall, hurricanes typically cause significant damage to critical infrastructure, making air travel one of the few safe and quick ways to access impacted zones and provide those stranded there with food, medical supplies, power generation equipment, and clean drinking water.

“With five decades of experience managing global emergency and humanitarian air operations, Chapman Freeborn is able to mobilize aircraft and crew within hours or, in extreme cases – within 60 minutes or less. This is made possible by leveraging the company’s long-standing, 24/7 network of partner airlines and suppliers,” said Aniko Mersek, Senior Vice President of Sales, Americas at Chapman Freeborn.

In addition to fixed-wing aircraft, Chapman Freeborn has access to STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft and helicopters, allowing its teams to reach remote or inaccessible areas where conventional runways may be unavailable or damaged.

Chapman Freeborn also maintains trust-based relationships with governments, NGOs, aid agencies, ground handling and trucking agents, shippers, and other key players, which speeds up approvals and makes communication more efficient. The company has been involved in numerous emergency airlift missions over the last 50 years.

“Our team is closely monitoring developments and stands ready to mobilize aircraft at short notice. Ensuring the safe movement of people and critical supplies is our top priority,” continues Aniko Mersek.

Chapman Freeborn has already contracted a wide array of aircraft, ranging from small regional jets to airliners and larger helicopters for in-country surveillance. We are also working closely with local authorities to bring in relief as soon as possible.

The company is currently on standby to provide urgent air charter solutions, including evacuations of civilians and personnel, deployment of first responders, and post-storm operations delivering relief supplies and equipment.