Filling machine for filling of a flexible pouch type package

A filling machine for filling flexible pouch type packages, comprising a transport unit (6) arranged for intermittent, edgewise advancement of the packages (2) from an upstream station (ST1) to a downstream station (ST3) via a filling station (ST2). The transport unit (6) is movable in a reciprocating manner between a first end position A and a second end position B. The transport unit (6) comprises a first gripping member (10) arranged to retrieve packages (2) in a non-filled state from the upstream station (ST1) and to deliver the packages (2) to the filling station (ST2). The transport unit (6) comprises a second gripping member (11) arranged to retrieve packages (2) in a filled state from the filling station (ST2) to deliver the packages (2) to the downstream station (ST3). The transport unit (6) comprises a suction cup member (13) arranged for opening-up of the filling channel (5) of the packages (2) state retrieved by the first gripping member (10) while the transport unit (6) is moved from the first end position A to the second end position (B). The suction cup member (13) comprises for each package (2) retrieved by the first gripping member (10) a pair of oppositely arranged suction cups (27) which are movably arranged in order to engage and separate side wall sections defining the filling channel (5) of the associated package (2).