New Delhi,20th February 2026:
SriLankan Cargo, the air freight arm of SriLankan Airlines, has become the first airline in South Asia to be awarded the Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) for Live Animals Logistics Certification from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Regarded as the premium global standard for the air transport of live animals, the certification serves as a powerful pledge to pet parents, livestock owners, conservationists and all shippers that SriLankan Cargo will transport animals in humane, safe and stress-free conditions across its worldwide network.
Chaminda Perera, Head of Cargo at SriLankan Airlines, commented on the achievement, stating, “Earning the IATA CEIV Live Animals Certification underscores our dedication to animal welfare and operational excellence, ensuring safer handling, trained teams and peace of mind for our customers.”
Sheldon Hee, Regional Vice President, Asia-Pacific, said, “The CEIV Live Animals certification is not only about compliance, but ensures the safety and welfare of live animals transported by air. This is particularly relevant as this is a market that continues to grow with more than 200,000 live animal shipments globally in 2025. We are pleased to see SriLankan Airlines achieve this important certification and ensure the implementation of the highest standards across the supply chain.”
The certification stands out for placing animal safety and welfare at the forefront, supported by best-in-class infrastructure and operational excellence. Achieving it requires a rigorous, multi-step process of training, assessment, validation, certification and recertification, ensuring that only organisations fully compliant with the IATA Live Animals Regulations and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species gain membership in this highly exclusive circle of airlines, which currently numbers 12 worldwide.
