Cathay Pacific has become the world’s first airline to be awarded CEIV Fresh, the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) globally-recognised accreditation for perishable product handling.

In harness with aviation industry stakeholders and regulators, IATA created the Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) with the aim of helping organisations involved in the air cargo supply chain achieve handling excellence.

The CEIV Fresh certification ensures quality assurance and works towards a reduction in spoilage and wastage, whilst also highlighting Cathay Pacific’s specialism in air cargo services.

Nick Careen, IATA Senior Vice-President, Airport, Passenger, Cargo and Security, said: “We congratulate Cathay Pacific on becoming the first airline to achieve CEIV Fresh certification at its hub in Hong Kong and join the world’s first airport community recognised under this programme. As an industry, we have a duty to ensure that global standards and best practices are in place to ensure perishable products are handled and transported to avoid increased product loss.”

Cathay Pacific General Manager Cargo Service Delivery Frosti Lau added: “Acquiring this new certification shows our commitment to continuous improvement in service quality and gives our customers the peace of mind in our special handling throughout the shipment journey. Along with other airport stakeholders in Hong Kong, including CPSL (Cathay Pacific Services Limited), this collaborative approach further boosts Hong Kong’s reputation as a key international gateway for the handling of perishable products.”