The ATA Conference 2025 brought together 146 industry experts to discuss the future of live animal transportation. Hosted in Doha, Qatar the event was marked by insightful discussions on AVI handling, animal welfare, compliance, and innovation in transport solutions.
READ: The future of live animal transportation
Key moments included a welcome speech by Eric Wilson, SVP Global Sales at Qatar Airways Cargo, an engaging AVI Handling and Animal Welfare Panel featuring Michael Wambold, Head of Cargo Terminal Services, and the appointment of Willem Lodewijk Berk, Regional Cargo Sales Manager, as ATA President. Participants also had the opportunity to visit Qatar Airways Cargo’s state-of-the-art Animal Centre.
The conference addressed critical industry challenges, including animal motion sickness, transport risks, equine transport complexities, avoiding paperwork errors, and the nutritional consequences of transporting horses. A strong focus was placed on the ‘prevention is better than the cure’ approach to improve animal welfare throughout the supply chain.
“The safe transport of live animals requires expertise, collaboration, continuous innovation, and respect for animals. At Qatar Airways Cargo, we are committed to setting the highest standards and supporting industry-wide improvements,” said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo.
Newly appointed ATA President Willem Lodewijk Berk added: “Taking on this role is a great responsibility. The industry is facing new challenges, and it’s essential that we work together to improve safety, compliance, and animal welfare.”
As the official host and sponsor, Qatar Airways Cargo arranged a visit for participants to see its state-of-the-art Animal Centre. The 5,260 sqm facility is equipped with many cutting edge features and greatly enhances the experience for all animals arriving in or transiting through the Hamad International Airport in Doha.
The air cargo carrier has reaffirmed its commitment to animal welfare and will continue working with industry leaders to enhance transport standards and best practices. Qatar Airways Cargo and its Doha ground handler QAS Cargo are the first companies globally to complete the full suite of IATA CEIV certifications, including CEIV Live certification, which recertification was recently obtained for. It will continue to confirm its commitment to initiatives such as its WeQare – Rewild the Planet programme.
