UPU News : In the time of COVID-19, posts display agility

14.04.2020 - As COVID-19 spreads like wildfire around the world, postal operators are introducing new and creative ways to keep the post moving.

In recent weeks, Vietnam Post has become  an outlier for this approach as it seeks to enter into partnerships with cargo airlines and private carriers to forge new routes and supply chains for mail delivery.

The Universal Postal Union (UPU) supports these activities through a joint campaign with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to help keep cargo planes in the air. 

UPU and IATA are encouraging governments to fast track procedures ensuring the movement of cargo planes, including those related to mail transport.

The two organizations are asking for fast track permits allowing cargo carriers to take over withdrawn passenger operations in key hubs. It is also recommended that curfews, overflight charges and parking fees are shelved.

Throughout March, Vietnam Post, one of the largest companies in Viet Nam, suffered similar problems to almost every other post as flights were cancelled and countries went into isolation. How Vietnam Post is solving these problems is an example to others.  

Determined to uphold its mandate, the postal operator approached the UPU’s Directorate of Postal Operations who were happy to provide support and assistance.

Following a UPU recommendation on 26 March to explore the use of the spare capacity in cargo flights, Vietnam Post entered into agreements with cargo operators and private companies. The postal operator also sought approvals for thenew approaches from Viet Nam’s Civil Aviation Authority and worked together with Vietnam Airlines.

These actions led, for the first time in Viet Nam’s history, to the transportation of Vietnam Post’s mail in the passenger cabin of a Vietnam Airlines’ flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Min.

There are now plans for the postal operator to extend these innovative efforts to international flights, and by doing so, helping to ensure the integrity of the international postal network. 

UPU Transport Programme Manager Jan Bojnansky said about the flight “Posts around the world are working with the Universal Postal Union to share ideas and adopt best practices. Based on this support, postal operators are entering into partnerships and creating new supply chains to ensure customers receive their mail.”