With significant development in both PharmaLife and FreshForward, two of its specialized solutions for temperature-sensitive shipments, Etihad Cargo has maintained its expansion of its capabilities in the global cool chain logistics industry. According to the airline, this increase is due to a big concern on embracing cutting-edge technology, continuous improvement of products, and meeting industry standards and customer expectations.
With a 12% year-to-date increase in tonnage over the same period last year, PharmaLife, Etihad Cargo’s offering for life sciences and healthcare logistics, has completed its fourth year of double-digit growth. This increase is seen as a testament to constant improvements aimed at accommodating the needs of pharmaceutical shipments, especially in sensitive temperature ranges, essential for vaccines and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
The cooling dollies, which enable smooth temperature control during tarmac transfers, were integrated into PharmaLife’s offerings by Etihad Cargo. PharmaLife shipments in September and October 2024 were 30% higher than for the same period the year before. These advances help reduce temperature swings; that is vital to maintaining the integrity of sensitive medicinal items. Etihad Cargo’s 99.7% compliance rate indicates that it is still committed to upholding excellent standards throughout PharmaLife.
In addition to the physical improvements, Etihad Cargo has focused its efforts on expanding PharmaLife‘s global reach. Growth has been particularly vigorous in South Asia Pacific, North Asia, and Central Asia.
Tonnage increased by 76% in the central areas due to PharmaLife Champions and focused roadshows. PharmaLife enjoyed its best earnings to date in North Asia, even surpassing China due to growth in South Korea.
With regular checks and on-going training, CEIV Pharma-certified Etihad Cargo adheres well to the best practices of the industry. The Pharma Champions program, consisting of 16 experts, offers tailored support for pharmaceutical customers and ensures that every shipment meets requirements set out in advance. This team provides a level of personalized care that adds value to customer service, and it actually matches the needs for sensitive deliveries of pharmaceuticals.