Ethiopian Airlines has reaffirmed its leadership in pharmaceutical air cargo services in Africa by successfully retaining its IATA CEIV Pharma (Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics) certification. This achievement highlights the airline’s continued commitment to excellence in transporting and handling pharmaceutical products, adhering to the highest international standards in healthcare logistics.
The IATA CEIV Pharma certification is a globally recognized benchmark that ensures the safe and efficient handling of temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical shipments. Ethiopian Airlines first achieved this certification in 2022, becoming the pioneer in Africa to attain this prestigious recognition. This latest recertification reinforces the airline’s dedication to maintaining these high standards while investing in infrastructure, training, and technology to enhance its services further.
The accomplishment, according to Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, is evidence of the airline’s steadfast dedication to helping the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. “Our dedication to excellence in healthcare logistics is demonstrated by this recertification,” he stated. Additionally, Tasew emphasized the airline’s strategic goal of establishing Addis Ababa as the world’s leading pharmaceutical hub in the global south.
“With a global network spanning key healthcare logistics hubs, we are dedicated to providing reliable and efficient air cargo services that address the logistical challenges of healthcare transportation. Leveraging Addis Ababa’s strategic location, we aim to support the healthcare industry and strengthen our position as a trusted partner in pharma and life sciences logistics,” Tasew added.
Ethiopian Airlines operates the largest and most advanced cargo network in Africa, serving 70 dedicated cargo destinations and over 140 passenger destinations globally. Its fleet includes 10 Boeing 777-200F, three Boeing 767-300F, and four Boeing 737-800F freighters, complemented by 150+ passenger aircraft. This extensive network is supported by cutting-edge cargo facilities with the capacity to handle one million tons of goods annually. These facilities are equipped with modern technologies to ensure optimal handling of pharmaceuticals, horticultural products, valuables, live animals, e-commerce, and courier services.
Ethiopian Cargo and Logistics Services handles an average of 2,000 tons of cargo daily, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable logistics partner. The airline’s commitment to modernizing its cold chain infrastructure, investing in specialized training for its workforce, and integrating innovative technologies has been pivotal in achieving and maintaining the IATA CEIV Pharma certification.
Ethiopian Airlines’ ability to handle pharmaceutical shipments in accordance with strict international standards is reassured by this certification, which also enhances the airline’s capacity to satisfy the increasing demand for dependable healthcare logistics services throughout Africa and beyond.
In addition to reaffirming its dominance in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines is positioning itself as a major participant in the global healthcare supply chain by continuing to set standards in the aviation and logistics sectors. Its goal to promote vital sectors and support global health initiatives is emphasized by its investments in quality and innovation, as well as its focus on developing a world-class pharmaceutical corridor through Addis Ababa.
Ethiopian Airlines is still a reliable and trustworthy partner in the global delivery of life-saving pharmaceutical items thanks to its most recent recertification.
