What is the primary purpose of an airway bill in air transport?

The primary purpose of an airway bill in air transport is to serve as a receipt for the shipment. When a shipment is handed over to an airline, the airway bill is issued as proof that the carrier has received the cargo from the shipper. It contains essential details about the shipment, including its destination and the parties involved. This receipt ensures that the shipper has a document to confirm the cargo was given to the airline for transport and establishes a record for both the shipper and carrier.

While the airway bill does have other functions, such as facilitating tracking and listing the contents of the shipment, its fundamental role as a receipt is critical for both accountability and documentation. This receipt aspect is particularly significant in air transport, where the speed and efficiency of operations are paramount.