GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 24, 2026
Ground Handling of Refrigerated Air Cargo
Airport ground handlers bear operational responsibility for keeping temperature-sensitive air cargo within its required cold chain from the moment it leaves the aircraft until final handover to the consignee.
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Source: https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/pharma/
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Airport ground handlers bear operational responsibility for keeping temperature-sensitive air cargo within its required cold chain from the moment it leaves the aircraft until final handover to the consignee. They run temperature-controlled storage zones with defined climate ranges, deploy pre-cooled or heated transport equipment during loading and unloading, and maintain unbroken temperature records throughout. The most critical window is the transfer from aircraft to storage: even brief exposure outside the specified range can cause total loss of pharmaceuticals, fresh produce, or blood products. Industry standards such as IATA CEIV Pharma and the EMA's GDP guidelines set binding requirements for facilities, equipment, and process documentation.
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