Brussels Airport signs on to IATA pharma program

   Brussels Airport is the first European airport hub to sign on to a pharmaceutical shipping certification program developed by the International Air Transport Association’s Center of Excellence for Independent Validators.
   “Brussels Airport is aiming to strengthen its position as a leading gateway for the handling and transportation of pharmaceutical freight in Europe,” stated Steven Polmans, head of cargo, Brussels Airport. “We hope that our leadership in being recognized as a CEIV Pharma certified community will persuade other airports to do the same. It is important that cold-chain pharmaceutical products can be transported in a standardized, sanitary and secure way throughout the world.”
   According to an IATA press release, the program allows for airport assessments and training, and provides official expertise.  
   “IATA has been working very hard with our stakeholders to ensure product integrity for these types of shipments,” IATA’s director general, Tony Tyler, said in a statement. “The CEIV Pharma certification program provides participants in the air cargo value chain with the tools to ensure that they are operating to the highest standards for the transport of what in many cases are life-saving drugs and medicines.”