Continental Airlines Cargo, the fi rst US airline to implement a structured cold chain product, has signed a new global contract with Envirotainer, setting the stage for expansion of its temperature- controlled product line.

The new agreement will see the increased use of Envirotainer’s active temperature-controlled air cargo containers for customers using Continental Airlines Cargo’s ClimateSecure service.

The airline said that using these ULD containers, provides its customers with "a superior alternative to traditional cooling means such as foam, gel packs or insulating blankets, which add expense to shipments and waste space."

ClimateSecure provides an unbroken door-to-door cool chain for up to 72 hours or longer when dry ice and batteries are replenished in transit. The service is designed for customers shipping high-value and sensitive goods, including pharmaceuticals, electronics, cosmetics, fi ne art and perishables.

As part of its new agreement, the airline will also participate in Envirotainer’s training programme and aims to become a QEP-CEP accredited airline.