Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has announced its complete readiness for the UAE Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) regulations, ensuring that partners and customers will experience no disruptions in their shipments.
PLACI is an advanced security measure designed to enhance the monitoring and safety of air cargo by mandating the submission of cargo data to regulatory authorities for risk assessment prior to loading, thereby enhancing the security of the supply chain.
The UAE’s National Advance Information Centre (NAIC), under the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security, is the first country outside of North America and Europe to implement a PLACI regime, following the adoption of similar protocols by the US Customs & Border Protection with the Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) programme in 2019 and the European Union with the launch of the Import Control System 2 (ICS2) in 2023.
As the national carrier of the UAE, Etihad Cargo is fully committed to the successful implementation of the UAE’s PLACI initiative and has integrated UAE PLACI standards into its global operations. The carrier’s proactive involvement in the pilot phase has allowed Etihad Cargo to refine its processes and infrastructure, ensuring it is fully equipped to meet these new requirements efficiently.
Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo, said, “As a combination carrier operating both passenger and freighter flights, the security and safety of guests, staff and the aircraft is a top concern for Etihad Cargo. As a cargo carrier, Etihad Cargo plays a significant role within the supply chain and has an increased responsibility to act as a filter and aid compliance.”
H.E. Mr Mubarak Alghafli, Executive Director at NAIC, stated, “Etihad Cargo has been collaborating closely with NAIC and is one of the four carriers that participated in the PLACI pilot. Etihad Cargo has played an important role in the success of the UAE-PLACI as the result of the tremendous cooperation and efforts made by the Etihad Cargo team, which helped us to develop a visible cutover plan for the UAE-PLACI that has already been accomplished.”
Etihad Cargo will continue to work closely with international and local authorities to navigate these new regulations effectively and assist partners and customers in understanding and adapting to these changes, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and prepared.
