ANA Cargo has joined Pharma.Aero to improve end-to-end air transportation for pharmaceuticals and other critical health and medical resources.

In a statement, the ANA Group noted that it has received CEIV Pharma certification and as the first Japanese carrier to become a member of Pharma.Aero, ANA Cargo will be able to build on its past successes and learn from members who are leading the way in pharmaceutical transportation.

“ANA Cargo is committed to building partnerships and putting policies in place that allow us to transport medical supplies safely and efficiently,” said Toshiaki Toyama, executive vice president of ANA and President of ANA Cargo.

“Our membership in Pharma.Aero will help us build on our experience in transporting medical supplies and better respond to the increased demand for the delivery of medical supplies,” he added.

For his part, Nathan De Valck, chairman, Pharma.Aero welcomed ANA saying “Pharma.Aero continues to pursue its vision in achieving reliable end-to-end air transportation of pharma cargo by expanding its global network and inviting more stakeholders across the pharma air supply chain in our collaborative projects.”

ANA noted that the transport of medicine presents a number of logistical challenges, and its experience has allowed it to compile a track record of success in the delivery of pharmaceutical goods.

In response to the pandemic, ANA said it contributed to the transportation of COVID-19 vaccines to Japan and most recently,  ANA cooperated in the transportation of COVID-19 vaccines to Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines,　Cambodia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Laos.

In addition, ANA has been certified IATA Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV PHARMA) since 2017, making it the first Japanese airline to receive this distinction.

“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect nearly every aspect of life, ANA remains committed to doing all it can to empower healthcare workers and public health professionals worldwide,” ANA said.