Air Canada Cargo has become the first airline to receive certification under IATA’s new Center of Excellence for Independent Validators for Live Animal Logistics (CEIV Live Animals).
The new standardised global certification programme to improve and reinforce the safety and welfare of animals travelling by air earlier this year, with Air Canada Cargo being chosen to undergo a pilot for the programme.
Over several months from January to July, IATA specialists reviewed Air Canada Cargo’s live animal transport policies and procedures in its Montreal facility, with Canadian Food Inspection Agency compliance was fully reviewed with protocols including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
Air Canada vice president cargo, Tim Strauss says: “Air Canada Cargo is a trusted carrier for thousands of animal shippers worldwide and has followed the IATA Live Animal Regulations (LAR). We expertly handle complex shipments, from rescued dogs, endangered animals travelling between zoos for conservation efforts and of course family pets.
We are honoured to have been selected to participate in the CEIV Live Certification program and are proud of the team at Air Canada Cargo for achieving the industry’s first ever certification, which reinforces our position as an industry leader.”
IATA senior vice president airport, passenger, cargo and security, Nick Careen says: “I want to congratulate Air Canada for their great leadership in achieving the first CEIV Live Animals certification in the world. Proper handling and transporting of live animals is a very important aspect of the cargo supply chain, with many unique complexities. Global standards and expertise are key to the safe and humane transportation by air of this precious cargo.”
