Continental Airlines Cargo has signed a new global contract to provide Envirotainer with temperature-controlled transport services.

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 by using these advanced ULD containers it will be able to provide customers with a more effective alternative to traditional cooling means such as foam, gel packs or insulating blankets, which add expense to shipments and waste space.

"Our new agreement with Envirotainer demonstrates Continental Cargo's commitment to expand our position as the only US airline with a comprehensive temperature-controlled shipping programme," says Mark Mohr, Continental Cargo's manager of Product Development and Specialty Sales."

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, fine art and perishables, a statement issued by Envirotainer said.