Tarmac Delay in Pharmaceutical Air Freight
In freight transport, a tarmac delay is a delay on the airport apron, for example between staging and loading. Temperature-sensitive shipments may then be outside controlled storage conditions. The risk depends on the duration and the actual exposure of the load unit.
Why is air temperature alone not enough?
- Direct sunlight can heat the surface of packaging further, even when the reported ambient temperature appears moderate.
- Wind, shade, the ground and nearby surfaces affect heat transfer. In winter, significant cooling may be the relevant concern instead.
- A delay also consumes time needed for the remaining transport stages.
How is a delay accounted for in the transport concept?
Exposure scenarios are recorded in the lane assessment and compared with the tested packaging protection. Possible measures include shorter apron times, controlled staging or suitable additional protection such as a thermal cover. Whether a measure is sufficient depends on the product, the load and the conditions for which evidence is available.
Related terms: Lane Risk Assessment · Ambient Temperature Profile
Technical references:
WHO: Transport route profiling qualification