Keep Pharma in Air Cargo Going!
Pharmaceuticals are among the most critical commodities in global trade, and air cargo plays a vital role in ensuring their safe and timely delivery.
In 2024, 35% of all pharmaceuticals were transported by air, amounting to around 300,000 tons worldwide*. This share continues to grow, driven by the increasing demand for cold-chain products. According to IATA, the cold chain logistics market is projected to reach $647.47 billion by 2028*, underlining the importance of reliable and efficient transport solutions.
Pharma logistics is far more than moving boxes from A to B. It involves handling highly sensitive, often life-saving products. Ensuring precise temperatures, regulatory compliances, and punctual delivery are essential to guarantee product integrity along the global supply chain.
Recently, BARIG participated in the Pharma Day organized by LATAM Cargo. The event brought together stakeholders from the pharmaceutical and logistics sectors to strengthen collaboration, exchange expertise, and explore innovative solutions. Jorge Carretero, BARIG Air Cargo Committee Chairman and Sales Director Central Europe at LATAM Cargo, opened the conference program with the words: “As an airline, we continue to invest in pharmaceutical infrastructure, digital solutions, and dedicated pharma capabilities. The key to success is collaboration – airports, forwarders, airlines, and manufacturers working together. Events like this allow us to connect, to share knowledge, and to learn from one another.”
Discussions focused on flexible business models for both freighter and belly cargo operations. Start-ups presented innovations in pallet shipping and autonomous cargo drones. The program concluded with an airside tour at Frankfurt Airport, offering participants a firsthand look at freighter operations in real time. It demonstrated the precision and coordination required to keep air cargo moving safely and efficiently.
Impressions of the event and airside tour:
