Etihad Cargo, the freight and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has been awarded the International Air Transport Association (IATA)’s Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators Lithium Batteries (CEIV Li-batt) certification.
This globally recognised endorsement, signifying an airline’s capability to handle and transport lithium batteries safely, was achieved by Etihad Cargo following an extensive independent audit. Etihad describe the certification as testament to its ‘sophisticated safety management systems, specialised equipment, and a team proficient in the specific logistics of lithium battery shipments’.
“According to IATA, lithium batteries represent one-third of the dangerous goods transported by air and have become the preferred energy source for a wide variety of consumer goods,” explained Thomas Schürmann, Head of Cargo Operations & Delivery at Etihad Cargo. “This achievement positions the carrier among an elite group of global airlines that are committed to meeting the safety obligations of the lithium battery supply chain through the competent handling and transport of these products”.
“Adding CEIV Li-batt to its CEIV Fresh, CEIV Pharma and CEIV Live Animals certification means Etihad Cargo is committed to the highest levels of safety and compliance in the transport of dangerous and temperature-sensitive goods” said Kamil Al Awadhi, IATA’s regional vice president for Africa and the Middle East, congratulating the airline on being one of the first in the region to complete the suite of CEIV certifications.