SriLankan Cargo, the air freight arm of SriLankan Airlines, has become South Asia’s first airline cargo division to secure the prestigious CEIV Lithium Batteries Certification (Center of Excellence for Independent Validators –  Lithium Batteries) from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), joining an elite group of global carriers and service providers to hold this coveted distinction. The certification, granted following a comprehensive and rigorous audit, is a testament to Sri Lankan Cargo’s operational excellence in handling all cargo categories, including sensitive lithium and sodium-ion battery shipments.

Chaminda Perera, Head of Cargo at SriLankan Airlines, commented on the achievement, stating, “This certification marks a significant milestone for SriLankan Cargo, highlighting our ability to handle lithium and sodium-ion battery shipments safely, as well as battery-powered equipment. It also removes operational barriers in the air transport of these products, allowing us to capitalise on the growing e-commerce sector and unlock new revenue opportunities.”

Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo, said, “As global shipments of lithium batteries continue to rise, ensuring their safe and efficient transport is more important than ever. IATA created the CEIV Lithium Batteries program to improve industry standards, promote best practices, and ensure compliance with regulations throughout the supply chain. We applaud Sri Lankan Cargo for achieving CEIV Lithium Battery certification. This milestone reinforces Sri Lankan Cargo’s commitment to excellence in lithium battery transportation, giving customers even greater confidence in their service.”

The certification audit covered all aspects of the air freight lifecycle, including Sri Lankan Cargo’s quality and safety management systems, personnel, training processes, documentation, infrastructure and equipment, customer management, and operations. It demonstrated that Sri Lankan Cargo is in top form to handle and transport lithium and sodium-ion batteries securely and safely.

The certification reinforces Sri Lankan Cargo’s credibility with shippers and logistics partners by assuring them of compliant, efficient handling of lithium and sodium-ion battery shipments. It also positions Sri Lankan Cargo more competitively in the global supply chain for these batteries and battery-powered products, an ecosystem founded on rigorous standards, best practices and mutual trust among stakeholders. Many products, such as mobile phones, power tools, remote-control devices, travel accessories, and toys, rely on these batteries for power.

The achievement is also expected to support Sri Lanka’s import and export sectors while enabling Sri Lankan Cargo to enhance revenue and efficiency. The improved workforce expertise and collaboration resulting from the certification will make this possible.

Sri Lankan Cargo has been providing connectivity for shipments across the Middle East, Europe, South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Far East and Australia, with an online network of over 30 destinations in 21 countries and an offline network that extends to hundreds of global cities. Leveraging on-road and partner networks, Sri Lankan Cargo can allow customers to move cargo beyond the points that Sri Lankan Airlines directly serves. With top-notch storage facilities and cargo handling equipment to manage customers’ every requirement, Sri Lankan Cargo is a one-stop solution for any consignment.

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