Emirates SkyCargo has teamed up with a leading US research institute to develop a protective cover for the shipment of temperature-sensitive goods.
The low-cost, lightweight, breathable and reusable White Cover is designed to shield shipments from heat during door-to-door transport.
Emirates SkyCargo is conducting a pilot programme with shippers of perishables and pharmaceuticals trading throughout its worldwide network.
"This is the first time this unique type of protection, which completely encloses the shipment, has been used for the airfreight of temperature-sensitive goods," said Therese Puetz, Manager of Cargo Business Development and Projects.
A patent for White Cover is pending.
One of the material's distinctive properties is its breathability – it resists air and water penetration while enabling trapped moisture to escape.
This makes it ideal for food and flowers while its low cost has made it popular with shippers of pharmaceuticals, especially products that have to be stored at room temperature.
"It offers significant thermal protection," added Puetz. "It also allows cooling of the shipment during transport and cold storage operations."