The awards were launched in 2023 and encourage all members of the IATA CBTA Center network to implement solutions to enhance operational efficiency, safety and sustainability.
They were presented during the 3rd IATA CBTA Center Conference held at the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
MAB Academy, the training arm of Malaysia Aviation Group was recognised for its virtual reality training programme for dangerous goods handling.
It was developed by MAB Academy and the University of Malaya (Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology) to simulate real-life warehouse scenarios to train employees on the preparation, classification, acceptance and handling of dangerous goods.
Ahlex was recognised for its immersive training within its Digital Training & Experience Center for dangerous goods training.
It incorporates 3D cargo simulations for individual and group training, tablet-based checklists and immersive wall and floor projections.
Participants can apply knowledge in realistic, safety-critical scenarios to support the development of critical competencies and workforce readiness.
Brendan Sullivan, Global Head of Cargo at IATA, says, “MAB Academy and Ahlex are being recognised with IATA CBTA Center Innovation Awards for their immersive and digital training solutions. The realistic environments they have created for training strengthen safety and enhance compliance. We are proud to count MAB Academy and Ahlex among our network of 214 IATA CBTA Centers and encourage others to follow their example in raising training standards industry-wide.”
The awards selection process involved an evaluation by an independent jury of industry experts, IATA representatives and independent validators.
They judged the entries on their innovation, potential impact on industry priorities and sustainability, user-friendliness, implementation feasibility and evidence-based effectiveness.