LUG aircargo handling GmbH has received the International Air Transport Association’s Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics certification for its Health Care Center at Frankfurt Airport’s CargoCity South.

“We are delighted that, as a key member of the Air Cargo Community Frankfurt, LUG aircargo handling GmbH (FRA) has completed this process,” said Mathias Jakobi [second from left in photo], area manager of Central Europe at IATA. “After successfully undergoing a strict assessment based on national and international standards, in particular IATA’s Temperature Control Regulations, and GDP best practices, we are recognizing LUG (FRA) as CEIV Pharma certified. We are proud to see the CEIV Pharma network growing so fast and congratulate LUG (FRA) on their achievement. This important certification demonstrates the commitment and expertise of LUG in handling sensitive and high-value pharma shipments according to international industry standards. It also strengthens the position of Frankfurt Airport as one of the leading pharma gateways worldwide.”

LUG modernized the HCC in 2017 and expanded the temperature-controlled area to 625 square metres. Due to rising demand, the company has begun construction of a 190-square-metre expansion which is planned to go into operation by the end of 2018.

“LUG has invested heavily in the handling process of temperature-sensitive goods with the expansion and modernization of the HCC,” said Dominik Misskampf [second from right in photo], senior project manager and manager of the HCC at LUG aircargo handling GmbH. “Throughout the whole development process the IATA CEIV standard has given us a clear guideline to provide our clients with the services that sensitive products require. We are very proud that our efforts to offer high-quality services have been rewarded.”

The HCC offers different rooms for temperature ranges of <-18°C, 2-8°C and 15-25°C, with the capacity being adjustable based on operational needs. A dedicated team, comprehensive temperature monitoring and recording as well as an alarm system guarantee a transparent and qualified air cargo supply chain for pharmaceutical products.

“Transporting and handling pharmaceuticals present great challenges but also opportunities for stakeholders in the logistics industry,” said Jakobi. “Recognizing this, IATA has created the Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics programme to help airlines, handlers and forwarders to be compliant with international regulations and in turn make air freight the first choice for the transportation of pharmaceutical products.”