Swiss WorldCargo has received International Air Transport Association (IATA) Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Pharma certification covering the entire airline and organisation.

The certification was awarded following an extensive review from IATA recognised independent auditors, and the certification was handed over by IATA’s director general and chief executive officer, Alexandre de Juniac.

The airline’s hub in Zurich received CEIV certification in 2016 and is recognised as GDP compliant by Swiss authorities, Swissmedic.

IATA now recognises Swiss WorldCargo’s globally consistent pharmaceutical handling and processes to safeguard product integrity and maintain high standards, making it one of the few airlines who have earned this recognition.

Swiss International Airlines head of cargo, Ashwin Bhat says: “Quality, reliability and long-standing experience underscore all our efforts in shipping products around the globe, and we are delighted to have been recognised at not just our hub, but throughout our entire airline and network.

“Our commitment to upholding safety standards throughout our global network offers us opportunities to carry out pharmaceutical shipments around the world. We are happy to play a valuable role in the shipment of pharmaceutical and life-saving products every day.”

De Juniac adds: “IATA congratulates Swiss WorldCargo on this important achievement, which demonstrates their commitment to the critical safeguarding of the integrity of pharma products. CEIV Pharma certification ensures these lifesaving products are handled using the best global standards of safety, security, compliance and efficiency.”