IATA and ICAO expand their cooperation on standards for dangerous goods shipments

An agreement to this effect was concluded at the IATA Executive Offices in Geneva during a visit by ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar, during which further collaboration between both organizations was discussed.

IATA began publishing guidelines for the transport of dangerous goods on aircraft in 1956 and has been updating and developing standards ever since. A more formalized approach to this issue was adopted at the regulatory level through the adoption of ICAO Annex 18 in January 1984. This describes the general principles for the international transport of dangerous goods. The Technical instructions for the safe transport of dangerous goods by air expand the basic provisions of Annex 18 and contain all the detailed instructions necessary for the safe international transport of dangerous goods by air. In addition, they provide guidance to States for inspection and supervision.

Based on Technical Instructions agreed at government level through ICAO, IATA works with the aviation industry to develop practical tools and applicable operational recommendations. These are published as the Dangerous Goods Regulations and are global standards applicable to the entire value chain: manufacturers, transporters, airlines, freight forwarders and ground handling services. These regulations include operator variations, supporting documents, tools, guidelines and notes that are essential for a practical and consistent approach to the safe acceptance, inspection, handling and transportation of dangerous goods on aircraft.

“The safe transportation of dangerous goods has become common practice thanks to strict compliance with global standards and guidelines. Today's agreement ensures that dangerous goods will continue to be handled in accordance with the highest standards applicable globally. To this end, IATA will continue its advocacy work with key stakeholders to maintain a globally aligned and practically focused approach to the regulated transport of dangerous goods. This will lead to more efficient and robust supply chains, while maintaining aviation's number one priority: safety,” said Willie Walsh, IATA Director General.

Source: IATA.