Singapore Airlines has launched a new service to transport time- and temperature-sensitive perishable cargo “with speed and reliability”.

Called ‘THRUFRESH’, the delivery service is said to meet the stringent demands of transporting delicate and short-shelf life products, such as live seafood, chilled meat, fruits and vegetables, by air. Its features include dedicated cold chain services such as priority uplift and handling, quick ramp transfers and cold room facilities to safeguard the integrity of perishables.

The launch of the new service comes on the back of Singapore Airlines becoming the first airline in South East Asia to receive the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) global certification for its handling of perishable products via its Singapore hub.

The Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators in Perishable Logistics (CEIV Fresh) certification is based on IATA’s perishable cargo regulations, combining regulatory and operational inputs from government and industry experts. They cover food safety and the prevention of food waste along the supply chain.

Required elements include quality and risk management, trained staff for the handling and movement of perishables, active collaboration and transparent communication with stakeholders and supply chain partners, and advocating a standardised approach for the transportation of perishable products.

IATA’s senior vice president for airport, passenger, cargo and security Nick Careen congratulated Singapore Airlines on the certification. He said: “The delicate nature of perishables means the highest standards are needed to make sure product integrity is maintained for such shipments. And with limited air cargo capacity due to the Covid-19 crisis, it is even more critical to ensure that these delicate and short-shelf life goods reach customers unspoiled with minimal waste and loss.

“With Singapore being a major hub for the transport of perishables, CEIV Fresh certification will give perishable shippers confidence and assurance that their cold-chain logistics requirements are being met.”

Singapore Airlines’ senior vice president cargo Chin Yau Seng commented: “We are honoured to be awarded the IATA CEIV Fresh certification, which affirms our dedication to upholding high safety and quality standards in the transportation of perishable cargo. Additionally, our new THRUFRESH service will provide our customers with the reassurance that essential food supplies and perishable products will be delivered reliably to their destinations and handled with the utmost care throughout the journey.”