Air India, India’s leading global airline, has been awarded the Good Distribution Practices (GDP) certification for its Cargo business, reinforcing its commitment to delivering world-class logistics solutions for pharmaceutical products.

Air India is the first and only Indian carrier, and among a few in Asia, to have achieved this global standard for excellence in handling, storage, and transportation of time and temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical shipments. The GDP certification validates Air India’s compliance with international guidelines for the safe and secure distribution of pharmaceuticals. In the financial year 2024-25, Air India transported over 4,000 tonnes of pharmaceuticals worldwide. 

“India is one of the world’s key exporters of pharmaceutical products, demanding specialised logistics and precision for their transportation to other parts of the world. This certification provides a shot in the arm to our expertise and capabilities in this specialised logistics space, assuring partners globally that we are fully equipped to safeguard the integrity of every shipment,” said Ramesh Mamidala, Head of Cargo, Air India.

Air India’s GDP-certified stations in its domestic route network include major cargo hubs in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Indore, and Goa. Internationally, the certificate covers major gateways like New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), Chicago, London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Paris, and Amsterdam – ensuring seamless connectivity for pharmaceutical shipments in India and globally.

Strengthening its ability to transport vaccines, biologics, and other high-value medical goods, Air India has made significant investments in enhancing its pharmaceutical handling capabilities, including: 
– Partnering with GDP or CEIV-certified Cargo Terminal Operators at key airports
– Joining hands with container solution providers offering both active and passive temperature-controlled solutions
– Specialised training for cargo staff on IATA’s Temperature Control Regulations (TCR)
– Procurement of essential equipment and tools such as thermal blankets and the introduction of a cool dolly at Delhi airport to minimise temperature deviations
– To ensure traceability and compliance with global standards, we have implemented comprehensive quality systems, including complete documentation and monitoring processes.
 
Air India’s GDP certification was awarded following a rigorous audit that included checks for pharmaceutical quality manuals, temperature-controlled warehouses and equipment, change control systems, documentation systems and processes, Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) protocols, hygiene, safety, and environment, as well as several assessments for risks and deviation management, etc.

Air India, with its modernising fleet and expanding global connectivity, is well-positioned to meet the pharmaceutical sector’s evolving needs while contributing to India’s goal of becoming a leading air cargo hub.

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