Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Aviation Group, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Luxembourg-based B Medical Systems to launch sustainable, temperature-controlled containers for the transportation of pharmaceuticals and life sciences.
Established in 1979, B Medical Systems is a global manufacturer and distributor of medical-grade devices.
Under the MoU, both parties will join forces to develop and launch an airline-specific passive temperature-controlled solution for the transportation of life-saving drugs, vaccines, and high-value pharmaceuticals.
According to the statement, “Etihad Cargo will collaborate with B Medical Systems to develop sustainable temperature-controlled container units that utilize passive cooling technology to retain temperatures from -80 to 25 degrees Celsius for up to five days without requiring an external power source, thereby reducing carbon emissions, with load capabilities ranging from two to 1,500 liters.”
Etihad Cargo said that the containers’ robust design and multi-use capabilities enable an operational life of over ten years.
Jesal Doshi Deputy CEO B Medical Systems
“The transportation of temperature-sensitive specimens needs a robust cold chain. Etihad Cargo’s operational knowledge along with our expertise in creating quality medical cold chain solutions will enable us to develop aviation-specific sustainable units for the safe, effective, and environmentally friendly transportation of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and specimens.”
Mr. Martin Drew, Etihad Aviation Group’s Senior Vice President – Sales & Cargo stated that, “Etihad Cargo is the first airline globally to collaborate with a partner to develop and launch units specifically tailored to air transportation. Partnering with B Medical Systems is the latest step by Etihad Cargo to achieve its sustainability targets.”
“By replacing legacy active cold chain air transportation containers with aviation-specific units that consume less energy, Etihad Cargo is future-proofing the transportation of pharmaceuticals, providing a better solution for Etihad Cargo’s customers, the aviation industry, and the environment,” Mr. Drew added.
