Emirates’ lithium battery mobile app receives IATA recognition

Dubai-based carrier Emirates has been recognised by IATA for developing a mobile app dedicated to the safe shipment of lithium batteries.

The trade body has awarded the airline a Competency-Based Training and Assessment Center (CBTA Center) Innovation Award.

The award was presented at IATA’s annual World Cargo Symposium (WCS), being held this week in Hong Kong.

The selection process for the 2024 IATA CBTA Center Innovation Award involved an evaluation by an independent jury, comprising industry experts, IATA representatives and independent validators, IATA informed.

Emirates’ Li-Battery Acceptance App is said to complement traditional classroom training by providing immediate and clear guidance on transporting lithium batteries, based on their quantity and power.

Entries were judged on their ‘innovation, potential impact on industry priorities and sustainability, user-friendliness, implementation feasibility, and evidence-based effectiveness’.

Frederic Leger, IATA’s senior vice president commercial products and services, commented: “The evolution of the air cargo sector and the challenges that brings, including the safe handling of dangerous goods, requires innovative training solutions that are both efficient and accessible.”

He noted that the carrier had “risen to the challenge with forward-thinking approaches that not only meet the current demands of the industry but also adeptly position them to meet the challenges of tomorrow.”

Only launched last year, the IATA CBTA Center Innovation Awards are intended to encourage all the members of the IATA CBTA Network to implement solutions that enhance operational efficiency, safety and sustainability.

The network currently encompasses 208 Center members.

WCS

This year’s WCS will focus on driving sustainable and inclusive growth. Key topics such as safety, sustainability and digitalisation are to be explored.

Workshops will look to cultivate the next generation of industry professionals and enhance current practices.

Plus, the symposium will host an e-commerce forum, highlighting the need for increased collaboration between e-tailers and cargo operators.