Imagine a shipment of priceless pharmaceuticals traveling across borders by air, where even the slightest variation in temperature, humidity, or vibration could compromise their efficacy. How can stakeholders guarantee these sensitive goods maintain optimal conditions throughout transit? The answer lies in air cargo tracking devices and their Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Interactive Cargo Project Status: Standards, Operations, and Procedures
All stakeholders in the air cargo supply chain — from shippers to handlers — require clear understanding of approval and usage protocols for tracking devices and data loggers that monitor location, environmental conditions, and transport status.
This SOP document outlines operational steps for using tracking devices in air cargo shipments, covering data registration and handling procedures. While providing universal guidelines, stakeholders must also comply with location-specific regulations and may need to adapt procedures based on internal systems or partnership agreements.
SOP Scope and Framework
The SOP establishes responsibilities for handling tracking devices in air cargo operations, built upon three foundational documents:
- Industry Master Operating Plan (MOP)
- IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM)
- Recommended Practice 1693 for Air Cargo Equipment Approval
Key Definitions
Portable Electronic Device (PED): Any electronic equipment brought aboard aircraft by crew, passengers, or as cargo, excluding certified aircraft configurations. Includes all battery-powered or externally powered devices.
Cargo Tracking Device/Data Logger: PEDs attached to air cargo (containers, pallets, packages) that monitor parameters like location, temperature, humidity, and vibration, transmitting data via radio frequency.
Airline Equipment Approval Requirements
Device approval serves critical safety purposes:
- Prevents potential interference with aircraft avionics
- Complies with EASA and FAA regulations under Air Operator Certificates
- Mitigates risks from unauthorized devices (delays, safety hazards)
- Addresses lithium battery safety (classified as dangerous goods under IATA DGR)
RP 1693: The Approval Framework
IATA's Recommended Practice 1693 provides structured guidelines for device approval:
- Defines key terminology
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Specifies two evaluation aspects:
- Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) with aircraft systems
- Battery safety compliance
- Details the approval request process
Booking and Declaration Protocols
During cargo booking, stakeholders must:
- Verify airline approval for all tracking devices
- Include complete device information (model, serial numbers) in handling instructions
- Coordinate accurate information sharing between shippers, freight forwarders, and carriers
Cargo Acceptance Verification
At acceptance points, carriers must:
- Confirm presence of Electronic Monitoring Device (EMD) codes
- Validate device models against approved lists
- Apply quantity limits based on risk assessments
Stakeholder Responsibilities
Shippers: Request airline approvals and provide complete device specifications.
Freight Forwarders: Include device details in bookings and Air Waybills.
Carriers: Verify approvals and communicate special handling codes to GHAs.
Implementation Best Practices
Effective SOP implementation requires:
- Clear internal process documentation
- Comprehensive staff training programs
- Standardized form utilization (IATA approval request templates)
- Proactive airline communication
- Integration with cargo tracking platforms