The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched the IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM) to help airlines and cargo handlers work together more effectively while improving safety and efficiency.

The ICHM, launched at the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Abu Dhabi, is the first complete set of standards covering operational activities of all stakeholders in the cargo handling supply chain.

It was developed in consultation with air carriers and cargo handlers based on industry best-practices, the Cargo-iQ Master Operating Plan and international regulations and standards.

IATA global head of cargo, Glyn Hughes says: “Cargo operations are performed at thousands of airports, by hundreds of handlers. With that number of parties involved, ensuring that global standards and best practices are being observed at all times is a constant challenge.”

“The ICHM is a single reference source that will help promote global consistency and harmonisation of cargo handling procedures, thereby facilitating the movement of goods safely, securely and efficiently while contributing to a reduction in air freight logistic costs.”