LATAM Cargo Chile has been recertified by IATA’s Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma), reaffirming its commitment to providing quality pharma transportation.

LATAM Cargo Chile was first airline in the Americas to achieve this certification in 2017. The recertification assures the airline’s customers that their valuable cargo will be handled with the utmost care, compliance, and dedication to delivering excellence in every shipment.

During 2023, the LATAM Group renovated and improved its cold chain facilities and carried out a comprehensive technological upgrade on all existing equipment in the cold storage warehouses, accompanied by significant improvements in doors and electric forklifts to ensure the optimal delivery of products requiring precise temperature control.

To add further value and align with the group’s sustainability strategy aimed at reducing its carbon footprint, the refrigerant used in all coolers has been replaced, resulting in a 65% reduction in CO2 emissions from these warehouses.

Diego Garcia, chief operating officer at LATAM Cargo Chile, said: “I am delighted to announce that the assessment was concluded with 100% compliance and zero findings, further validating our meticulous approach to compliance and the effectiveness of our quality management systems.

“This recertification is not just about our achievements, but it underscores the spirit of collaboration that defines LATAM Cargo, solidifying our position as trusted leaders in pharmaceutical transportation in the Latin American region.

“This reaffirmed commitment aims to satisfy our clients better, ensuring that their needs are met with the highest standards of safety and reliability.”

Peter Cerda, IATA’s regional vice president the Americas, said: “Air cargo plays a critical role for both exports and imports for many industries in Latin America, especially since other modes of transport often are not viable alternatives.

“Pharmaceuticals are a case in point, as these rely on air transport for speed, consistency and efficiency in ensuring that these high-value, time-sensitive, temperature-controlled products reach their destination safe and sound.

“IATA’s CEIV Pharma Certification addresses the industry’s need for more safety, security, compliance and efficiency, through a globally consistent and recognised pharmaceutical-product handling certification.

“It is wonderful to see LATAM Cargo’s CEIV Pharma’s recertification as it demonstrates the industry’s commitment to offering safe and secure air cargo transportation.”

LATAM Cargo Chile has made significant investments in quality control and continuous improvement by closely monitoring its cold chain processes using its own monitoring devices.

By harnessing this data, the airline says it has been able to identify any weak points in the cold chain and swiftly implement corrective actions and best practices to ensure the integrity and safety of pharmaceutical shipments.

This has allowed LATAM Group to also expand their pharma network by 45% and to more than triple the transportation of pharma that requires a cold chain versus pre-COVID.

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