The Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators for Live Animal Logistics (CEIV Live Animals) certification was awarded following successful completion of the verification process in Air Canada Cargo's Montreal facility. The accreditation reinforces that the airline is operating to the highest standards in the transport of live animals, from domestic pets to exotic wildlife.
"Air Canada Cargo is a trusted carrier for thousands of animal shippers worldwide and has followed the IATA Live Animal Regulations (LAR)," said Tim Strauss, Vice President, Cargo. "We are honoured to have been selected to participate in the CEIV Live Animals certification programme 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's Senior Vice President, Airport, Passenger, Cargo and Security, Nick Careen, congratulated Air Canada for achieving the first CEIV Live 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,” Careen commented. “Global standards and expertise are key to the safe and humane transportation by air of this precious cargo."
IATA launched the new global certification programme to improve the welfare of animals travelling by air at the IATA World Cargo Symposium in March this year. Air Canada Cargo was chosen to undergo a pilot for the programme.
Over a period of months, from January to July, IATA conducted a thorough audit, reviewing Air Canada Cargo's live animal transport policies and procedures in its Montreal facility, including compliance with Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).