Live Animals (AVI)
Live Animals (air cargo code AVI) is the specialised transport of living creatures — from pets, horses and livestock to zoo animals, day-old chicks, fish and laboratory animals — most often by air because speed limits the stress and risk to the animals. It is a demanding, welfare-critical category with strict rules governing every aspect of the journey.
The carriage is governed by IATA's Live Animals Regulations (LAR), which specify approved container (crate) design, space, ventilation, feeding and watering, documentation and handling for each species, alongside CITES controls for endangered species and national veterinary and quarantine requirements. Animals need priority, climate-appropriate handling and minimal delay. Because the cargo is living and the responsibility (and reputational risk) is high, live-animal transport is handled only by trained staff and specialised facilities — a niche but important part of air cargo requiring careful compliance and planning.
Live animals are the most sensitive cargo of all — the "goods" can suffer or die, and the welfare, regulatory and reputational stakes are high. That makes AVI a strictly regulated, specialist discipline (IATA LAR, CITES, veterinary rules) handled only by trained staff. It shows how far air cargo's rules and care extend beyond ordinary freight.
What regulations govern live animal air transport?
IATA's Live Animals Regulations (LAR) for containers, space and handling, plus CITES for endangered species and national veterinary and quarantine rules.
Why are live animals usually shipped by air?
Speed minimises the time animals spend in transit, reducing stress and welfare risk compared with slower modes.