air cargo

More and more airfreight companies are completing a new certification designed to help them meet customer and regulatory requirements for perishables, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The IATA created the Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Freshcertification in March 2019, in an attempt to standardise procedures for shippers and help with fast transit and temperature management.

Katherine Kaczynska, spokeswoman of IATA, toldFreightWaves, five carriers and six ground handlers were in the process of completing the certification.

This is in addition to the first two airlines to achieve CEIV Fresh, Cathay Pacific Airways and Etihad Cargo, the logistics arm of Etihad Airways.

Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals, Cathay Pacific Services, Alha Group and Etihad Airport Services were the four handlers that received certification in 2019.

The IATA has noted the growth in the perishable goods area and it hopes to facilitate increasing demand. The certification is aimed at giving shippers confidence that there are procedures in place to ensure the integrity of the cold chain, so their fresh produce is delivered unspoiled.