All Nippon ANA First Japanese Airline Certified for Lithium Transport
All Nippon Airways (ANA) has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Japanese airline to receive certification from the International Air Transport Association (IATA)’s Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Lithium Batteries (CEIV). Granted on December 24, 2024, this certification underscores ANA’s commitment to the safe and reliable transportation of lithium batteries, a critical component in today’s technology-driven world.
Lithium batteries are increasingly becoming the preferred energy source for a wide range of consumer goods, including electric vehicles, smartphones, and laptops. However, they also represent one-third of dangerous items transported by air, necessitating stringent safety measures. ANA’s CEIV certification highlights the airline’s dedication to meeting and exceeding international safety standards in handling these potentially hazardous materials.
IATA’s CEIV Certification: Ensuring Safety and Compliance
IATA’s CEIV certification program is designed to empower the entire supply chain involved in transporting lithium battery products. This includes shippers, freight forwarders, cargo handling facilities, and airlines. The certification ensures that these entities comply with applicable transport regulations and demonstrate their capability and competency in safely handling lithium batteries.
ANA’s comprehensive approach to lithium battery transportation encompasses rigorous staff training, the use of specialized equipment, strict safety protocols, and meticulous quality control across its route networks. The certification was primarily awarded based on ANA’s operations at its international cargo hub at Narita International Airport (NRT), where the airline has implemented advanced measures to ensure the safe transport of lithium batteries.
Enhancing Safety in a Growing Market
The demand for lithium batteries is soaring, particularly in Asian markets, driven by the rapid expansion of the electric vehicle industry and other technological advancements. ANA recognizes the critical importance of safely transporting these batteries to support the growth of these sectors. By obtaining the CEIV Li-batt certification, ANA not only enhances its operational capabilities but also reinforces its position as a leader in safe cargo transportation.
Kenichi Wakiya, Executive Vice President of Cargo Marketing & Services at ANA and President & CEO of ANA Cargo, stated, “At ANA, our top priority is safety and the reliability of our services to our valued customers. Being CEIV Li-batt certified by IATA reinforces our commitment to meeting our customers’ needs by providing the highest standards of safe transport.”
Industry Recognition and Future Commitments
Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President of Operations Safety and Security, commended ANA for achieving the CEIV Li-batt certification. “We congratulate ANA on achieving CEIV Li-batt certification. This certification underscores ANA’s commitment to meeting the highest standards in handling and transporting lithium batteries safely and efficiently. The CEIV Li-batt program is vital for ensuring safety and compliance across the supply chain, and we are pleased to see ANA contributing towards raising the industry benchmark,” Careen remarked.
In addition to the CEIV Li-batt certification, ANA has also earned IATA’s CEIV Pharma and CEIV Fresh certifications, which recognize the airline’s excellence in transporting pharmaceuticals and perishables, respectively. These certifications collectively highlight ANA’s comprehensive approach to cargo safety and its ability to handle a diverse range of sensitive and high-value goods.
ANA’s acquisition of the CEIV Li-batt certification is a strategic move that aligns with the airline’s broader goals of fleet modernization and operational excellence. As ANA continues to expand its global footprint, ensuring the safe transport of lithium batteries will be paramount in maintaining customer trust and supporting the airline’s growth initiatives.
The partnership with IATA’s CEIV program not only enhances ANA’s operational standards but also sets a new benchmark for the aviation industry in Japan. By prioritizing safety and compliance, ANA is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of global trade and technology.
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