FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – SriLankan Cargo, the cargo division of the state-owned carrier, has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) certification for Live Animals Logistics from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), according to a statement from the airline.
SriLankan Airlines is now the 12th airline globally to receive this certification and the first in South Asia. This certification reinforces the airline’s commitment to transporting live animals in accordance with global standards, ensuring their safe and humane air transport.
Chaminda Perera, the Head of Cargo at SriLankan Airlines, highlighted that this certification would enhance the airline’s cargo business, which currently contributes 11 percent to the national carrier’s revenue. “SriLankan has already been transporting live animals, but the new certification will instill confidence in clients who choose our services,” Perera stated.
Sheldon Hee, Regional Vice President for Asia-Pacific, emphasized that the CEIV Live Animals certification extends beyond compliance; it ensures the safety and welfare of live animals during air transport. The global live animal cargo market is projected to grow, with over 200,000 live animals expected to be shipped by 2025.
Achieving this certification involves a rigorous, multi-step process, including training, assessment, validation, certification, and recertification. This ensures that only organizations fully compliant with the IATA Live Animals Regulations are certified.
“SriLankan Cargo is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards outlined in the IATA Live Animals Regulations throughout the entire shipment lifecycle, from acceptance and handling to loading, transportation, and final delivery,” the airline stated in a release.
(Colombo/February 17/2026)
