McDonnell Douglas DC-9 15F

Ultra-Critical Shipments

At AirFreight.com, we understand every second of downtime in the oil and gas industry can result in substantial financial losses. We aim to prevent further operational delays and minimize production losses. Our expertise in ultra-critical shipments means you have complete shipment flexibility, and ensures that your essential equipment reaches its destination, door to door, as fast as humanly possible. 

The Challenge

A major oil production facility in northeastern British Columbia faced a critical situation when an essential gas dehydration unit suffered unexpected component failures. Without a functioning unit, the facility was at significant risk for output reductions leading to millions in lost revenue and regulatory complications due to unprocessed gas accumulating within the pipeline network.

After assessing the failure, the engineering team determined that two large components needed immediate replacement. While a backup system existed, it didn’t have the capacity to handle full-scale operations, and a new dehydration system was required. The only available replacement components were located at a supplier in Oklahoma and a shipment by air would be needed as soon as possible.

How We Solve It

Given the urgency, the Operations Manager immediately reached out to AirFreight.com, having relied on their expertise for previous ultra critical shipments. The logistical challenges were significant. This type of equipment was usually scheduled and trucked in given with plenty of lead time. The oilfield’s location was isolated, but a paved runway, primarily used for air traffic supporting area industries, was located nearby. The gas dehydration unit, while compact, was heavy and oversize, and required careful handling to prevent damaging the internal components. Their dedicated Expeditor assessed the real-time data on aircraft availability, locations, and specifications, and developed a plan for the fastest delivery possible.

Smaller aircraft that typically serviced the area were ruled out, but a DC-9 could easily handle the cargo dimensions and weight while the runway requirements fell within its capabilities. The Expeditor arranged for the transport of the dehydrator and additional supporting equipment by semi-tractor trailer from the supplier to the nearest airport, and from the airport to the remote runway. The engineering team would coordinate with the Expeditor to arrange transport of the shipment from the runway back to their facility using their own trucks.  

Before dawn, the palletized gas dehydration unit and crated equipment were carefully loaded and secured to the flatbed semi-trailer for transport. The pre-dawn takeoff was scheduled to avoid the influx of daily passenger flights along the route, allowing for the most direct flight.  

During the flight, the Expeditor provided in-flight tracking and continuous updates to the engineering team, giving them visibility into the aircraft’s progress as they prepared for immediate offloading. As the DC-9 descended over the snow-covered terrain, it touched down and executed a smooth landing on the frosted runway. 

As soon as the aircraft came to a stop and was secured, the team moved in to unload the cargo, carefully transferring the components to their flatbed trailer. After installation and testing, the oil production facility was back to full-capacity operations by late afternoon.

At AirFreight.com, we recognize that when equipment failures threaten operations, time is the most valuable resource. Our 24/7 air charter services ensure that critical shipments reach their destinations quickly, reliably, and without compromise, keeping industries moving when every second counts.