Air Canada Cargo has selected GTA dnata to handle all export and import pharmaceutical shipments at Toronto Pearson International Airport from February 26, 2019.

GTA dnata obtained the International Air Transport Association’s Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics certification for its processes and facilities in Toronto in January 2019.

“This collaboration reflects Air Canada Cargo’s commitment to fulfilling our customers’ evolving needs for pharmaceutical shipments,” said Vito Cerone, senior director of sales and commercial strategy at Air Canada Cargo. “The CEIV Pharma certified GTA dnata facility, which fully meets the requirements for the safe and secure handling of all types of pharmaceutical shipments, enables us to provide our customers with a superior offering.”

GTA dnata is a joint venture between GTA Aviation and dnata, and provides ground-handling and cargo services to 15 airlines in Toronto.

“We welcome Air Canada and its valued customers,” said Mario D’Urso, chairman and CEO of GTA dnata. “The CEIV certification is highly beneficial to the pharmaceutical industry, which now has in GTA dnata a single organization certified to provide point-to-point handling and transportation of pharmaceutical products.”

Non-pharmaceutical perishable shipments will continue to be handled at the main Air Canada Cargo facility in Toronto, according to the carrier.