Dangerous materials are an important part of air transport. It is worth noting that their carriage is subject to IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. What materials belong to this group and how does such transport look like?
Air transport of hazardous materials is directly associated with the term IATA. IATA is an abbreviation of International Air Transport Association – in Polish translation it means the International Air Transport Association. IATA headquarters is located in two locations – Montreal, Canada and Geneva, Switzerland. Currently, 260 carriers belong to the IATA organization.
Another extremely important organization in the context of air transport is the ICAO, or International Civil Aviation Organization. They deal with the development and implementation of air navigation regulations
Why are these two organizations worth mentioning at first? For one important reason. They are behind all the regulations on transporting materials, including hazardous materials. It is worth following their actions – conferences and statements, because this way you can stay up to date with events that are important for transportation
Hazardous materials are things and substances that can be dangerous to the health and safety of people, and also threaten the environment. For example, they can be explosives, weapons or chemicals, the improper transport of which could result in serious consequences for society and nature.
There are 9 classes of such products: explosives, gases, flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidizing substances, poisonous and infectious substances, radioactive materials, corrosive substances and various hazardous materials.
If you wish to transport hazardous materials, the first thing you need to do is obtain a MAWB Transport List. In addition, each transported product must be accompanied by completed documents in English. These documents are DGR – Dangerous Goods Declaration of the Shipper.
In addition to this, you should ensure that you inform the captain of the aircraft with a written NOTOC with information about the goods that are on board, with precise information about their location. Dangerous goods should also be transported in specialized packaging that provides the highest level of security. These should carry an appropriate label and a UN (United Nations) identification number.
Air transport of hazardous materials is certainly the fastest option. On the other hand it can cost quite a lot. Therefore, it is advisable to prepare properly for each stage of the realization of the shipment, as well as to consider all available options in order to choose the optimal one, thanks to which your goods will be transported in a safe and cost-effective way.
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