On March 27, 2020, an Hi Fly A340 aircraft made a significant arrival at Lisbon Airport at 8:30 PM local time. The flight, coming from Shanghai, China, carried crucial medical supplies and COVID-19 protective gear, playing a key role in supporting Portugal’s battle against the global pandemic.
The flight was led by Hi Fly Group Vice-Chairman and veteran pilot, Commander Carlos Mirpuri, who brought 46 years of worldwide flying experience to the mission. At a time when the world was facing unprecedented challenges, Commander Mirpuri and his crew exemplified resilience and determination. His leadership inspired the entire Hi Fly team, who worked tirelessly to help those in need during the crisis. Crews were repatriating passengers from all over the globe, constantly ready for action and demonstrating unwavering commitment.
In addition to the vital cargo mission, Hi Fly also achieved a milestone during the pandemic. The airline operated the first-ever non-stop flights between Lisbon and Shanghai, covering a route of approximately 11,300 kilometers each way. The outbound flight took 12 hours and 55 minutes, while the return flight from Shanghai to Lisbon was slightly longer at 13 hours and 40 minutes. The aircraft flew over various countries, including Spain, France, Belgium, Germany, Poland, and Russia, before reaching China.
Hi Fly’s dedication during the global health crisis didn’t stop at transporting cargo. The airline took immediate action to protect passengers and flight crews during repatriation flights. The company established ‘Covid Ready To Go’ teams and implemented several medical and safety measures. These teams ensured that protective equipment was distributed efficiently and kept the aircraft stocked with necessary medical supplies. Aircrews were fully briefed on COVID-19, and comprehensive safety protocols were introduced, including the use of personal protective clothing, disinfectants, and biohazard bags.
Repatriation flights were equipped with a protected “Crew Only” area, providing space for aircrews to safely remove and store their protective gear while following decontamination procedures. Hi Fly’s efforts extended to educating crews about potential COVID-19 symptoms, proper use of medical kits, and post-flight protocols to ensure safety upon arrival at their destination.
Throughout the pandemic, Hi Fly remained committed to its humanitarian role, helping repatriate stranded passengers worldwide. The company’s staff—brave and selfless—stepped up as heroes, providing hope in an uncertain world. Their dedication to service left a lasting impact on many, as they helped people reunite with their families at a time of great global distress.
Looking back, Hi Fly’s contributions five years ago continue to stand as a testament to the airline’s unwavering commitment to safety, responsibility, and compassion during one of the most difficult periods in modern history.
“Flying Through the Pandemic” – A five-episode series documenting Hi Fly’s challenges and resilience during the COVID-19 outbreak.
