By: Ikenna Oluka
The International Air Transport Association
(IATA) has launched a new industry certification—the Center for Excellence for
Perishable Logistics (CEIV Fresh)—to improve the handling and the transport by
air of perishable products.
“Perishable goods is a growing market for air
cargo. Ensuring that these delicate and short shelf-life products reach the
customer unspoiled with minimal waste and loss is essential. Shippers will have
assurance that CEIV Fresh certified companies are operating to the highest
quality and standards in the transport of perishable products,” said Alexandre
de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO.
The specific time and temperature requirements
for food and plant products makes the handling and transporting of perishable
products challenging. The CEIV Fresh program meets these exacting requirements
primarily based on the IATA Perishable Cargo Regulations (PCR) which combines
professional regulatory and operational input from industry and government
experts.
CEIV
Fresh Launch Partners
The Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), Cathay
Pacific, Cathay Pacific Services Limited (CPSL) and Hong Kong Air Cargo
Terminals Limited (HACTL) were the first organizations to pilot the CEIV Fresh
program taking a community approach to certification. This unique community
approach helps align the needs and responsibilities of all stakeholders
involved in the handling of perishable goods.
“We took a community approach to developing CEIV
Fresh recognizing that the successful shipment requires the alignment of many
stakeholders. Shippers can have peace of mind knowing that every entity
handling their goods is operating to the same standards. Understanding the
value of this to the success of its customers, the Airport Authority Hong Kong
pioneered the world’s first CEIV Fresh certified airport community,” said Glyn
Hughes, IATA Global Head of Cargo.
“We are delighted to be the first airport community
worldwide recognised by IATA under the CEIV Fresh programme, which is a big
encouragement to and affirmation of the capability of the Hong Kong airport
community in handling perishable products. HKIA is the world’s busiest
cargo airport since 2010. With the new certification, HKIA is well-placed to
capture the increasing growth opportunities in the market for fresh and
perishable goods,” said Fred Lam, Chief Executive Officer, Airport Authority
Hong Kong