AirBridgeCargo (ABC) Airlines has further enhanced pharma services by gaining Envirotainer QEP accreditation at its global hub at Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport and in Dallas.
Envirotainer created its Qualified Envirotainer Provider Training and Quality Program (QEP) to recognise transport service providers which demonstrate their ability to properly manage Envirotainer container shipments in accordance with Good Distribution Practices.
ABC global director of pharma, Fedor Novikov says: “We have been heavily involved in pharma transportation since 2016 and our focus over the last 18 months has been to invest in developing the products and services our customers need. QEP accreditation is one of the benchmarks we and our customers recognise as being very important as we grow pharma volumes across our network.”
The abcPharma product was developed in close consultation with customers by ABC’s pharma industry vertical team, which includes qualified staff at all levels.
This has led to ABC enforcing strict handling procedures and control processes required for pharma shipments during all stages of transportation.
In November 2016 ABC became the first airline in Russia to receive IATA CEIV Pharma certification, which addresses the need for more safety, security, compliance and efficiency through a globally consistent pharma product handling certification programme.
When developing its pharma product, ABC conducted lane assessments to understand each international station’s readiness to handle pharma shipments, including strict audits of ground handling agents and ramp agents, as well as trucking companies and other outsourced partners.
Envirotainer compliance manager, Chris Fore says: “As one of the world’s fastest-growing all-cargo airlines and with a network serving major pharmaceutical markets and trade lanes in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific, AirBridgeCargo clearly realises its responsibility to its customers in terms of delivering a quality product to the end user- a patient.”
“QEP accreditation sends a strong message about the high standards the airline is committed to delivering.”