A recent article highlighted the remarkable progress made towards the full operationalization of the United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH) during its 100 days. Today, we take a closer look at one element of this. On 12 January, UNSOH received a vital air asset, significantly enhancing its operational capacity to support United Nations activities across the country.
The arrival of the civilian helicopter, contracted by the Department of Operational Support's Office of Supply Chain Management (OSCM), marks an important step in establishing UNSOH, particularly in logistics and operational mobility. The aircraft will provide critical support to United Nations entities operating in Haiti, improving responsiveness, efficiency, and safety.
“This vital air asset will greatly enhance our ability to support UN operations in Haiti in a timely and reliable manner,” said OSCM Assistant Secretary-General AnneMarie van den Berg. “It will allow UNSOH to better serve our partners on the ground while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational effectiveness.”
The helicopter is operated under a commercial contract and meets all United Nations aviation safety and compliance requirements. It will be used for a range of tasks, including the transport of personnel and cargo, reconnaissance flights, and support to mission-critical activities, such as medical evacuations.
Given Haiti’s challenging terrain and evolving operational environment, air assets remain essential to ensuring continuity of UN support functions. The introduction of this helicopter reinforces UNSOH’s commitment to maintaining robust logistical and operational support in line with UN mandates.
UNSOH continues to strengthen its capabilities and, guided by the mandate established under Security Council resolution 2793, will work closely with UN agencies, funds, and programmes to ensure effective support for coordinated efforts aimed at promoting stability and delivering assistance throughout Haiti.