Air Canada Cargo becomes the first to gain IATA CEIV Live Animals certification

Aug 10, 2018: Air Canada Cargo has received the first Center of Excellence for Independent Validators for Live Animals Logistics (CEIV Live Animals) certification from industry body IATA.

The airline successfully completed the pilot programme launched in March. This certification reinforces that Air Canada Cargo is operating to the highest standards in the transport of live animals, be it exotic species or household pets.

“Air Canada Cargo is a trusted carrier for thousands of animal shippers worldwide and has always complied with the IATA Live Animal Regulations. We expertly handle complex shipments, from rescued dogs, livestock, endangered animals travelling between zoos for conversation efforts and of course family pets,” said Tim Strauss, vice president, Cargo.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) launched IATA CEIV certification for live animals in order to improve the safety and welfare of animals travelling by air earlier this year.

Air Canada Cargo and London Heathrow Animal Reception Center (HARC) were chosen to undergo a pilot for the programme.

Over several weeks in May and June, as part of a thorough audit, IATA’s specialists reviewed the airline’s policies and procedures for transporting live animals. All aspects of animal handling were included in the review, from booking to acceptance, customer service, training, physical handling, transport to and from the ramp and conditions in our Montreal facility, and consideration for animal safety and well-being. Compliance with Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) was fully reviewed as was compliance with protocols like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) CITES, whose aim is to deter illegal wildlife trade.

“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,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s SVP, Airport, Passenger, Cargo and Security.