The contemporary cold chain has reached new heights due to temperature tracking, yet many companies still face a notable challenge: air freight for refrigerated goods.
Air transport is not only costly but also contributes significantly to carbon emissions, prompting the majority of produce to be shipped by sea, road, or rail. Nevertheless, certain highly perishable fruits and vegetables (like berries and asparagus) need to be transported swiftly to ensure they arrive at their freshest. This necessity makes air freight the most practical solution, particularly for global supply chains.
Moving temperature-sensitive produce by air presents distinct cold chain difficulties that can result in expensive losses. Fortunately, distributors and supply chain professionals can implement effective strategies to reduce temperature changes and protect product quality.
Challenges in Cold Chain Air Freight
Many airports and aircraft are equipped with insufficient temperature control, exposing sensitive cargo to significant temperature fluctuations that compromise quality. Given the high costs associated with air freight, these losses can have a substantial impact on a company’s financial performance.
On the Ground
The transition from truck to aircraft represents the most vulnerable link in the air freight cold chain. Airport security screenings, customs checks, and tarmac loading frequently occur in environments that lack refrigeration.
The greatest risk exists during the loading phase, particularly in extreme weather conditions. Unexpected delays due to inclement weather, air traffic control issues, or mechanical problems can significantly extend exposure times. Excessive heat may result in the wilting of produce, while extreme cold can cause harmful ice crystal formation. Although insulated thermal covers provide some level of protection, they may not always suffice.
In the Air
The cargo holds of aircraft typically possess limited temperature control capabilities in comparison to refrigerated trucks or storage facilities. Fluctuations in air pressure and altitude throughout the flight can influence the internal temperature of the cargo hold, especially during ascent and descent. Exposure to multiple significant temperature shifts within a short time frame can adversely affect the quality of the produce.
The Greatest Challenge in Refrigerated Air Freight
The responsibility for maintaining optimal temperatures frequently rests with individual companies rather than the airlines.
International shipments often navigate through various customs procedures and differing shipping capabilities, introducing additional complexity in preserving the cold chain. This complexity is exacerbated by significant variations between on-the-ground and in-flight temperatures.
Moreover, it is crucial to uphold high humidity levels during transportation. The air at high altitudes is inherently dry, and cargo aircraft typically lack humidity regulation capabilities. Variations in both temperature and humidity can adversely affect shelf life and expiration dates.
For instance, berries and other fruits may begin to shrivel when humidity levels fall below 95% for prolonged periods. Additionally, produce with high water content, such as blueberries, may suffer from ice damage upon thawing, resulting in an undesirable mushy texture.
Cold Chain Air Freight Solutions
YESSS’s temperature monitoring solutions have empowered our organization to implement strategic, data-driven process enhancements aimed at preventing significant temperature excursions in the future. These solutions encompass:
Temperature Monitoring: Devices for internal and external temperature monitoring accurately measure ambient and internal temperatures, allowing for an evaluation of the effectiveness of temperature control equipment. Check how YESSS TYPE AC S1 and S2 prevent operation mistakes.
Temperature Control Equipment: Although YESSS does not directly provide these solutions, tools such as thermal blankets and ice gels used on the tarmac are instrumental in maintaining appropriate temperatures during critical stages of transport.
Interoffice Communication: YESSS’s professional services teams are available to assist in the training and education of airport personnel, thereby fostering improved communication and collaboration in the handling of temperature-sensitive cargo for both life science and food safety.