Air Freight Pharma

Transporting pharmaceuticals by air necessitates a meticulous approach and thorough preparation, including a lane risk analysis before execution. The stability data of the product, when available, along with the lane risk assessment, ultimately dictates the optimal transport method. This assessment provides valuable insights into the transport conditions and the necessary measures to ensure the product arrives in the appropriate condition at its destination.

Air freight for pharmaceuticals involves a complex supply chain with multiple transfer points, often managed by different parties. These transfer points represent the highest risk of deviations in the handling process. San Anglo has developed a range of specialized solutions to address the compliance needs associated with the air transport of medicines.

In collaboration with our clients, we determine the best packing and transport methods for each shipment. We provide an overview of our tailored products, each accompanied by a Standard Operating Procedure and a comprehensive checklist based on GDP and IATA CEIV guidelines. Only trained and certified personnel handle these sensitive shipments, ensuring the highest standards of care and compliance.

CTC Active is specifically designed for transporting larger batches of pharmaceuticals that are highly sensitive to heat, including those still in the clinical phase. We utilize an active container powered by a battery, which maintains a consistent temperature throughout the entire transport process. By keeping the goods securely within the container, we effectively reduce the risks associated with transhipment. The container features an easy-to-read temperature display, which is monitored and verified by all parties involved in the supply chain during transit. CTC Active is suitable for temperature ranges from 0 to +25 degrees Celsius, ensuring the integrity of your sensitive pharmaceutical products.

CTC Passive Plus is designed for smaller batches of pharmaceuticals that are highly sensitive to heat, particularly those still in the clinical phase. We utilize validated boxes or containers tailored to specific needs. The choice of packaging or container type depends on the required temperature, transit time, and the shipment's origin and destination. Common cooling solutions include dry ice, water cooling panels, and Phase Change Material (PCM) panels. The type and amount of coolant used, along with the insulation properties of the boxes or containers, determine the maximum validation time—the duration during which the goods can be maintained at the appropriate temperature. This typically ranges from 48 to a maximum of 120 hours. CTC Passive Plus is effective for temperature ranges from -70 to +25 degrees Celsius, ensuring the safe transport of sensitive medications.

CTC Passive is particularly well-suited for less thermally sensitive medications and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs). We collaborate with airlines that provide passive temperature control solutions for these shipments. The goods are stored in temperature-controlled areas at the departure airport, during transit, and at the destination.

Some airlines also feature specially designated compartments on their aircraft that are monitored and temperature-controlled, exclusively for pharmaceutical products. However, it is important to note that during the loading and unloading process, the goods may be briefly exposed to external weather conditions. To mitigate these risks, we recommend measures such as scheduling flights for evening, nighttime, or early morning departures and utilizing thermal blankets to maintain the integrity of the products throughout the transport process.