Air Canada Cargo has become the first cargo carrier to receive the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Center of Excellence for Independent Validators for Live Animals Logistics (CEIV Live Animals).
Launched in April, the carrier has gained the certification following successful completion of the verification process in its Montreal facility.
Over several months from January to July, as part of a thorough audit, IATA’s specialists reviewed Air Canada Cargo’s live animal transport policies and procedures at the facility.
Compliance with Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) was fully reviewed along with protocols like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Air Canada Cargo said the certificate “reinfornces” that it is operating to the highest standards in the transport of live animals, be it exotic species or household pets.
Air Canada Cargo vice president, Tim Strauss said: “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 launched the new standardised global certification program to improve and reinforce the safety and welfare of animals travelling by air. Air Canada Cargo was chosen to undergo a pilot for the program.
IATA’s senior vice president, airport, passenger, cargo and security, Nick Careen said: “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.”
In 2017, Air Canada Cargo handled over 18,000 different animal shipments across its network.
