Etihad Cargo bags IATA CEIV certification for perishable logistics

December 24, 2019: Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, becomes the second only international carrier to receive International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Centre of Excellence for Perishable Logistics (CEIV Fresh).

The certification is awarded to FreshForward, the perishable services of Etihad, for achieving standards of capability, infrastructure and quality in the temperature-controlled handling and transportation of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, fish, meat and flowers.

CEIV Fresh
Launched in March 2019, IATA’s CEIV Fresh demands organizations to meet industry standards and improve the level of competency, infrastructure and quality management in the handling and transportation of perishable products throughout the supply chain.

Along with its launch, Cathay Pacific became the first airline and Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) became the first airport to be awarded this accreditation.

The certification will take the organization through five steps: training for quality and risk management, an assessment against the CEIV Perishable Logistics Audit Checklist, validation for the gaps addressed, the certification valid for 36 months, re-certification for refresher training and re-validation.

Etihad’s journey to CEIV Fresh
“Etihad Cargo was required to meet global IATA standards, International requirements and best practices, as well as pass stringent food safety management protocols within Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) methodology,” says the release.

Frederic Leger, director, airport, passenger, cargo and security products, IATA, added “Perishable goods are a growing market for air cargo. Ensuring that these delicate and short shelf-life products reach the customer unspoiled with minimal loss is essential. I want to congratulate both Etihad Cargo and Etihad Airport Services (EAS) in achieving the Center of Excellence for Perishable Logistics (CEIV Fresh) certification. CEIV Fresh certification provides stakeholders throughout the air cargo supply chain with the assurance that certified companies are operating to the highest quality and standards in the transport of perishable products.”

Abdulla Mohamed Shadid, managing director cargo and logistics, Etihad Aviation Group, said “Acquiring our second CEIV certification in a single year is a significant achievement for Etihad Cargo and underlines the product-specific quality of service we deliver across our global network. In-line with our commitment to offer a diverse portfolio of industry-leading products to Etihad Cargo’s global customers, FreshForward is destined for further investment and growth.”

Fresh plans of Etihad
In addition to covering airline operations of Etihad Cargo, the CEIV’s Fresh certification also comprises cargo handling and warehousing at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH). The airline also plans to expand its perishable cargo facility and develop a cool chain centre of excellence at its hub in Abu Dhabi.