The agreement enables pharmaceutical shippers to lease PharmaPort 360 containers directly from Cathay Pacific Cargo, the first Hong Kong airline to be awarded IATA CEIV Pharma Certification, boosting the carrier’s Pharma LIFT capabilities and providing its customers worldwide with a leading hybrid option for moving time-sensitive, high-value medications by air.

Cathay Pacific General Manager Cargo Service Delivery Frosti Lau said: “Sonoco’s reputation for quality perfectly aligns with our own high standards for service delivery. We are delighted to have this unique and world’s-first partnership with Sonoco ThermoSafe, and we are confident this collaboration will provide our customers with a consistent solution for the transportation of vital and life-saving pharmaceutical products.”

The PharmaPort 360 utilises proprietary hybrid technology to ensure extremely precise +5C temperature control. Once charged, the PharmaPort functions like an active temperature controlled container without the energy consumption, or heat discharge of other compressor-based technologies.

The PharmaPort’s hybrid technology allows it to operate on battery power substantially longer than competing active units used for bulk air shipments, and it also eliminates the need for refrigerated trucks for lengthy truck lanes. Additionally, it contains a fully integrated, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved telemetry system, providing real-time, cloud-based data on payload and ambient temperature, precisely synchronised with GPS location. 

Vishal Khushalani, Director of Global Marketing & Business Development for Sonoco Protective Solutions, said: “The PharmaPort 360 provides best-in-class active temperature control, while utilizing a hybrid technology that maintains strict +5°C control while providing real-time temperature and location visibility across the supply chain. The container is also easy to use and is versatile across transportation modes.

“By taking the extra time to build in the integrated telemetry, we were focused on providing advanced visibility to eliminate any opportunity for product loss.  Everyone using the PharmaPort’s data services can view each container’s internal and external temperature and location at any time, and the transportation supply chain can respond effectively to any challenges that arise.”