Worldwide Flight Services will become the first company which is not an airline or a forwarder to join the board of non-profit interest group Cargo iQ.

WFS will be represented by John Batten, its interim chief executive officer of Europe.

“Cargo iQ has a vital role to play in continuing to drive improvements in the industry,” said Batten. “It is an exciting time to be joining the board as we take next steps towards the launch of our Smart Data project, and new audit and certification scheme, and I am looking forward to working with the team for the roll out of these important developments.”

According to Cargo iQ, Batten has 35 years of experience in the air cargo industry and was previously an observer to the board, which is composed of 12 airline and forwarder representatives. He has worked for companies such as TNT, Qatar Airways and Swissport.

“John’s knowledge and advice has already been invaluable as an observer,” said Ariaen Zimmerman, executive director of Cargo iQ. “We are very pleased to be welcoming him to the board as we develop.”

Cargo iQ is supported by the International Air Transport Association and consists of more than 80 members. The group was created to establish and implement quality standards for the air cargo industry.