Hercules' strength puts the world in Maximus' hands

The L382 Hercules, usually known as the military tactical air-lifter of choice across the globe for more than four decades, has been specially modified to join Maximus' growing fleet of civilian all cargo aircraft. The premier operator took delivery of its second upgraded L382G in October 2007 which was upgraded with a VIP seating area for 18 escorts in business-class surroundings, as well as a payload area designed to accommodate up to 20 tons of a wide variety of oversized and heavy cargo.

'We are known for our practical and cost-effective approach and are proud to be able to serve some of the world's most recognized companies. This is why Maximus has chosen Hercules aircraft to carry out the demanding operations that we specialize in', said Fathi Hilal Buhazza, Maximus President and CEO.

'The Hercules is truly unique because it is capable of operating from unprepared runways, such as rough, dirt strips on less than 1500 meters of takeoff run. Moreover, since it is also designed to drop goods from the air, this medium-range aircraft gives us the advantage of being able to deliver goods to any location around the globe. Our Hercules special features have proven to be indispensable for most of our operations, especially the humanitarian and relief ones.'

The company's recent work includes humanitarian support for the Darfur region in Sudan as well as disaster relief for Lebanon after the 2006 war, for Pakistan after the recent earthquake, and South East Asia after the tsunami. With over 2,000km normal range with full payload, the Hercules is renowned for its ability to carry oversized cargo, heavy machinery or basic humanitarian goods such as food and medical supplies to and from short runways, even without minimal ground support equipment.

In just nine months, Maximus has doubled its fleet to eight. Established in 2005 in Abu Dhabi, Maximus has emerged as the fastest-growing all cargo operator in the Middle East, providing first-class air transport services to royalty, governments, multinationals, and humanitarian and relief organizations. Maximus' portfolio of clients include well known entities, such as the UAE Red Crescent, Etihad Airways and Warner Bros. Entertainment.

Maximus' L382 are the only two civilian available aircraft based in the Middle East. Maximus' fleet also includes one Antonov An-124, two Airbus A300-600RF and three Ilyushin IL-76TD. They are suitable for any cargo requirements between 20 to 120 tons, making Maximus a 'one stop shop' for all logistical requirements.