Challenge Group renews IATA CEIV Live animals certification

Air cargo company Challenge Group, on 1 October announced that it has renewed its IATA CEIV Live animals certification. This recertification affirms the company's commitment to safety and professional excellence in the global transportation of live animals.

The company stated that the renewal of the CEIV certification is a direct outcome of sustained investments in both highly specialised teams and critical infrastructure dedicated to animal welfare logistics.

A major element of this commitment is the Horse Inn facility located in Liège. According to the press release, “The Horse Inn serves as more than just a transit hub; it is a global benchmark for animal welfare and logistics efficiency.”

The facility’s design and operation prioritise safety and comfortable travel with the highest standards of care, have established it as the preferred gateway for industry stakeholders involved in the movement of horses and other livestock.

The company manages the movement of approximately 8,000 horses. Over 5,000 of these are transported on its own fleet of Boeing 747 aircraft, predominantly across the Atlantic.

These aircraft are specifically equipped to support the welfare of their valuable passengers, featuring pre-cooling systems, in-flight temperature control, and designated seating for grooms.

The company employs a dedicated workforce rigorously trained to IATA standards, who are fully committed to overseeing every detail of live animal transport, ensuring that professionalism and compassion guide every step of the journey.

Challenge Group has developed tailored equipment and processes to optimise its operations. These specialised tools include customised Unit Load Devices (ULDs), dedicated areas for the cleaning and storage of stalls, and even a prototype horse trailer designed to enable rapid, safe transfers between the Horse Inn facility and the aircraft.