LATAM Cargo Chile achieves CEIV Pharma re-certification
1st airline in Americas to achieve certification in 2017; highlights dedication to excellence in pharma transportation
Photo Credit: LATAM Cargo
LATAM Cargo Chile, part of LATAM group, announced its successful re-certification by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma).
"Being the first airline in the Americas to achieve this certification in 2017, the company has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high industry standards by securing recertification once again for their airline operations as well as their handling operations (GHA) in Miami, highlighting its continued dedication to excellence in pharmaceutical transportation," says an official release.
During 2023, the carrier renovated and improved its cold chain facilities and carried out a comprehensive technological upgrade on all existing equipment in the cold storage warehouses, accompanied by significant improvements in doors and electric forklifts to ensure the optimal delivery of products requiring precise temperature control, the release added. To add further value and align with the group's sustainability strategy aimed at reducing carbon footprint, the refrigerant used in all coolers has been replaced, resulting in a 65 percent reduction in CO2 emissions from warehouses.
“I am delighted to announce that the assessment was concluded with 100 percent compliance and zero findings, further validating our meticulous approach to compliance and the effectiveness of our quality management systems," says Diego Garcia, COO, LATAM Cargo Chile. "This recertification is not just about our achievements but underscores the spirit of collaboration that defines LATAM Cargo, solidifying our position as trusted leaders in pharmaceutical transportation in the Latin American region. This reaffirmed commitment aims to satisfy our clients better, ensuring that their needs are met with the highest standards of safety and reliability."
Peter Cerda, Regional Vice President, The Americas, IATA adds: “Air cargo plays a critical role for both exports and imports for many industries in Latin America, especially since other modes of transport often are not viable alternatives. Pharmaceuticals are a case in point as these rely on air transport for speed, consistency and efficiency in ensuring that these high-value, time-sensitive, temperature-controlled products reach their destination safe and sound. IATA’s CEIV Pharma Certification addresses the industry's need for more safety, security, compliance and efficiency, through a globally consistent and recognised pharmaceutical-product handling certification. It is wonderful to see LATAM Cargo’s CEIV Pharma’s recertification as it demonstrates the industry’s commitment to offering safe and secure air cargo transportation”.
LATAM Cargo Chile has made significant investments in quality control and continuous improvement by closely monitoring their cold chain processes using their own monitoring devices. "By harnessing this data, the airline has been able to identify any weak points in the cold chain and swiftly implement corrective actions and best practices to ensure the integrity and safety of pharmaceutical shipments." This has allowed LATAM Group to also expand their pharma network by 45 percent, and to more than triple the transportation of pharmaceutical products compared to pre-Covid period, the release added.
