Airlift Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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airlift
[ˈɛərˌlɪft ]
Definitions
military operation
An airlift is the transportation of supplies or troops by aircraft, often used in military contexts. It is crucial for delivering essential resources to inaccessible areas or during humanitarian crises.
Synonyms
air cargo, air delivery, air transport.
Examples of usage
- The airlift provided food and medicine to the war-torn region.
- During the Berlin Blockade, the Allied forces organized a massive airlift to supply the city.
- The military conducted an airlift of soldiers to remote bases.
transport supplies
To airlift means to transport people or goods by aircraft, typically in circumstances requiring rapid deployment or delivery. This term is often used when referring to urgent needs in disaster relief.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The organization will airlift supplies to the earthquake-affected region.
- They airlifted injured civilians from the disaster zone.
- The company plans to airlift its new product to market quickly.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'airlift' gained prominence during the Berlin Airlift in 1948-1949 when planes transported supplies to West Berlin amidst a blockade.
- Initially, the word became popular in military contexts, referring to the movement of troops and equipment by air during crises.
Technology
- Modern aerial transport utilizes advanced navigation systems to ensure the safe delivery of goods and aid, even in challenging weather.
- Drones have begun to play a role in airlifting small packages and medical supplies, especially in remote or hard-to-reach areas.
Humanitarian Efforts
- Airlifts are crucial during natural disasters, enabling immediate relief such as food, water, and medical supplies to affected regions.
- The organization World Food Programme frequently employs airlift methods to deliver food assistance to vulnerable populations.
Culture
- Movies and literature often showcase dramatic airlift scenes in wartime, emphasizing bravery and the effectiveness of aerial rescue missions.
- The concept of airlifting has influenced countless art pieces, illustrating the hope and urgency of helping others in need.
Origin of 'airlift'
The term 'airlift' emerged during the mid-20th century, primarily in the context of military operations. The first significant airlift operation is often associated with the Berlin Airlift of 1948-1949, during which Western Allies flew over 200,000 flights to supply West Berlin after the Soviet blockade. The prefix 'air' denotes the use of aircraft, while 'lift' relates to the action of carrying or raising. In its use, 'airlift' has also widened to encompass humanitarian efforts, commercial logistics, and emergency response situations. As aviation technology progressed, the capacity and efficiency of airlifting supplies and personnel enhanced dramatically, solidifying its place in modern transport lexicon.