ATA - Gateways to the future of animal transport

The Animal Transportation Association (ATA) hosted their 46th Annual Conference – a collaboration with Etihad Cargo in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The Planning Committee welcomed colleagues from around the world who represent their expertise in the various areas of live animal transportation and conference attendees had the opportunity to take advantage of education based on the latest cutting edge academic research, trending innovation and digitization and other current issues facing the animal transport industry.

Representatives from member airlines, airports, shippers and other stakeholders from the world of animal shipping, industry affiliate partners, international and regional organizations attended. In addition to our industry-leading educational sessions, attendees networked in a variety opportunities to exchange ideas, continue conversations around sessions, and connect with new and old faces alike.

Handling and transporting live animals is challenging. Ensuring that standards and best practices are in place around the world to protect the welfare of these animals when they travel is a key priority for to ATA’s Vision and Mission.

During the ATA’s award ceremony, two key awards were presented:

ATA’s Lifetime Achievement was awarded to Mr. Marshall Meyers for his internationally recognized strong belief in the ideals and mission statement of the ATA toward the welfare of animals being transported worldwide and his contribution as an expert colleague that encourages adequate protection of and humane and expeditious handling of worldwide live animal transportation.

The ATA President’s Award was awarded to Ms. Andrea Gruber of IATA. This special award is presented to an individual/organization who have provided the ATA and its Directors continuing help and assistance in the development of the ATA mission throughout the world.