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How to Transport Dry Ice by Air Safely
Dry ice, or solid carbon dioxide (UN1845), is essential in industries like biotechnology, food, and pharmaceuticals for cold chain logistics. However, its safe and compliant air transport requires understanding of dry ice air transport regulations, packaging, and documentation. This guide breaks down everything you need to know based on the latest IATA and Logicom Hub training guidance.
🚀 Why Dry Ice Is Regulated?
When dry ice sublimates, it turns into CO2 gas, which can displace oxygen and create pressure inside sealed containers. This makes it a Class 9 Miscellaneous Dangerous Good under IATA DGR. Improper handling could result in aircraft incidents, delays, and fines. For example, failing to include ventilation in packaging has caused pressurized containers to burst during flight.
🔒 Who Needs Dry Ice Training?
Dry ice training is mandatory for:
- Medical couriers and diagnostic labs
- Biotech and pharmaceutical suppliers
- Shippers of perishable foods and temperature-sensitive materials
- Air cargo handlers and forwarders
The Logicom Hub course is CAA-compliant and focused specifically on dry ice-only shipments. If dry ice is used with other dangerous goods, additional certification is required.
🌬️ Dry Ice Classification
Dry ice is classified as:
- Proper Shipping Name: Carbon dioxide, solid or Dry Ice
- UN Number: UN1845
- Class: 9
- Packing Instruction: PI954
🛋️ Packing for Air Transport
To stay compliant, use a triple-layer system:
- Inner Packaging: Dry ice granules or blocks in a thermally insulated container
- Outer Packaging: Strong, rigid outer layer with ventilation for gas release
- Overpacks: If used, must be clearly marked and ventilated
Thermal control units (like those by AirSea Containers) are often used and must come with manufacturer specs. Use cooling systems like dry ice, gel packs, or cold packs as advised by packaging design.
📌 Marking and Labelling Requirements
According to Section 7.1.4.1 of the IATA DGR, each package must include:
- “Carbon dioxide, solid” or “Dry Ice” with UN1845
- Net weight of dry ice (e.g., 20 kg)
- Shipper and consignee full name and address
- Class 9 hazard label
- Additional labels like “Cargo Aircraft Only” if required
Labels must be on the same side as the shipping name and visible.
📄 Documentation for Air Transport
No Shipper’s Declaration is needed if dry ice is used solely as a refrigerant with non-dangerous goods (PI 954c). However, your air waybill must include:
- UN1845, Proper Shipping Name
- Net weight of dry ice
- Contact person’s name and phone number
Missing this info could lead to rejected cargo or rechecking fees from £50–£150.
🛋️ Special Considerations for Dry Ice Packaging
Some common pitfalls include:
- Failing to provide ventilation holes in outer packaging
- Incorrect weight declarations on air waybill
- Overlooked operator or state variations (see IATA DGR 2.8.2 & 2.8.4)
Dry ice is not permitted in international post and is restricted in carry-on or checked luggage.
🎓 Inside Logicom Hub’s Dry Ice Course
This online course is divided into six modules covering:
- Applicability of IATA/ICAO regulations
- Classification and packing instruction PI954
- Packaging design, ventilation, and manufacturer specs
- Correct marking and labelling
- Documentation and air waybill completion
- Handling processes and acceptance checklist
Includes practical examples, assessments, and an invigilated final exam for certification.
✅ Enrol in the Dry Ice by Air Training
Ensure every package of dry ice you ship complies with global standards. Whether you’re transporting food, pharmaceuticals, or biological specimens, Logicom Hub’s course will help you ship with confidence.
🔗 Enroll in Dry Ice Air Transport Training Now