Seoul, May 25, 2023 – Korean Air announced today that it has obtained the International Air Transport Association (IATA) CEIV Lithium Batteries certification, marking a significant milestone for the airline. After five months of preparation since December 2022, Korean Air successfully passed the rigorous evaluation conducted by IATA’s expert assessors.
The certification recognizes Korean Air’s systematic and safe provision of specialized cargo air transportation services, built upon more than 50 years of expertise in the field. To commemorate the achievement, a ceremony was held on the morning of May 25th at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Incheon, attended by representatives from Korean Air, Incheon International Airport Corporation, IATA, and participating certified companies.
Korean Air had already obtained the CEIV Lithium Batteries certification from IATA in April. IATA’s CEIV Lithium Batteries certification is an internationally recognized standard that verifies the transportation expertise of companies involved in the lithium battery air logistics chain. Introduced in 2021, the certification involves a comprehensive evaluation of over 240 criteria, including lithium battery transportation procedures, facilities, equipment, and regulations, by global experts in dangerous goods transportation. Upon successful evaluation, a certificate is issued.
To obtain this certification, Korean Air collaborated with various domestic air cargo companies in the industry. In December 2022, a certification community was formed with major airlines including Korean Air, forwarders, and ground handling companies, centered around Incheon International Airport Corporation. In the first half of 2023, each company within the community underwent sequential inspections and assessments according to predetermined schedules, leading to successful certification for all participants.
Korean Air leverages its more than 50 years of cargo transportation know-how and expertise to provide customized transportation services for special cargo. In the case of lithium batteries, the airline applies specific handling standards and procedures based on battery types and capacities. Moreover, Korean Air implements its own stringent safety management system, which exceeds international standards for the transportation of dangerous goods when necessary, ensuring the accurate and secure transport of all special cargo.
In recent years, there has been a rapid growth in demand for lithium battery air cargo, driven by the increasing use of portable electronic devices, electric vehicles, and other lithium battery-powered applications. More than 10% of the cargo transported by Korean Air includes lithium batteries, and this percentage is expected to continue expanding. Consequently, the importance of ensuring the safety of lithium battery transportation has become paramount. With the acquisition of the CEIV Lithium Batteries certification, Korean Air’s credibility and trustworthiness in the field of air cargo safety are expected to be further enhanced.
By Jungchan Lee/Korea Travel News
