Etihad Cargo achieves IATA CEIV pharma recertification

Etihad Cargo has been recertified as meeting IATA’s CEIV Pharma standards.

The cargo division of Etihad Aviation Group achieved IATA CEIV Pharma recertification following an audit by independent validators that assessed the carrier’s capacity to control and enhance its processes through a checklist that focused on Etihad Cargo’s Quality Management System incorporating supplier management, training programmes, processes and procedures, audit programmes, and quality enhancement, among others.

Achieving recertification demonstrates Etihad Cargo’s and its dedicated pharmaceutical transportation product PharmaLife’s full compliance with specific pharmaceutical regulations, including IATA Temperature Control Regulations (TCR), Good Distribution Practices (GDP), a quality system for warehouses and distribution centres dedicated to medications and life sciences products.

The UAE’s national carrier first achieved IATA CEIV Pharma certification in 2019 in conjunction with its hub at Abu Dhabi International Airport and Etihad Airport Services Cargo.

Etihad Cargo went on to become the first airline in the Middle East and only the third globally to hold the trilogy of CEIV Pharma, CEIV Fresh and CEIV Live Animals certifications, said Etihad.

Martin Drew, senior vice president – global sales & cargo at Etihad Aviation Group, said: “Etihad Cargo is proud to achieve IATA CEIV Pharma recertification following an extensive audit.

“This industry-wide standard ensures Etihad Cargo’s operations and staff comply with all applicable standards, regulations and guidelines expected from pharmaceutical manufacturers.

“The benefits of CEIV Pharma certification extend to Etihad Cargo’s customers, who can be assured the carrier’s dedicated pharma cargo management constantly monitor and analyse the quality and safety of Etihad Cargo’s PharmaLife product performance.

“Etihad Cargo fully supports Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a life sciences and pharmaceutical hub. Achieving recertification and providing world-class pharmaceutical logistics solutions demonstrates Etihad Cargo’s capabilities in seamlessly transporting life-saving medicines and the latest treatments around the world from the carrier’s Abu Dhabi hub.”

Etihad Cargo has invested in its PharmaLife product since achieving IATA CEIV Pharma certification for pharmaceutical logistics in 2019.

In addition to launching dedicated thermal covers for PharmaLife products across its top pharma origin stations, Etihad Cargo recently announced the upcoming launch of a new 3,000 sq m pharma facility at its Abu Dhabi hub.