The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has formally recognised Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) as a hub for certified pharma handling, following efforts by the Puerto Rico Life Sciences Air Cargo Community to improve cold chain operations in the region.

The Community has been working closely with SJU and the Department of Economic Development and Commerce of Puerto Rico (DEDC) to support logistics providers in achieving the Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Pharma, including training initiatives for smaller organisations, and government subsidies for the accreditation cost.

This has resulted in the certification of seven members: American Airlines, Prime Air Corp, ETH Cargo, Expeditors, César Castillo, Isla Frio Refrigeration, and Ground Motive Dependable Airline Services (GMD).

The CEIV initiative was launched five years ago by Industry University Research Centre Inc. (INDUNIV), which is currently facilitating a second round of further accreditations across the Community.

“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude for the recognition awarded to SJU and for the hard work and dedication of our entire team,” said Jorge Hernandez, Chief Executive Officer of Aerostar Airport Holdings, which operates and manages SJU.

“This achievement underscores our collective commitment to advancing Puerto Rico’s reliable and efficient transportation of pharma products.”

The CEIV Pharma accreditation, established by IATA, serves as the global standard for transporting pharmaceuticals, ensuring that critical products are correctly handled in line with stringent requirements.

“Congratulations to SJU Airport for playing an instrumental role in helping its airport community partners achieve IATA’s CEIV Pharma certification,” said Peter Cerda, IATA’s Regional Vice President The Americas.

“This milestone not only reflects a commitment to excellence but also strengthens the integrity of pharmaceutical transport through the airport’s cargo supply chain.”

“With this certification, SJU and its cold chain partners set a benchmark for reliability and compliance in line with CEIV standards, demonstrating their dedication to safeguarding the quality of life-saving medicines and establishing themselves as trusted partners in pharma logistics.”

The continued drive for accreditation and education across Community members has been a crucial step in strengthening Puerto Rico’s pharma operations.

With further CEIV Pharma certifications in the pipeline, the Community and its partners will continue to advance the standard of pharma operations across the island.