Transporting live animals by air is one of the most complex and sensitive operations in the logistics industry. From household pets to racehorses and exotic species, each shipment requires specialised handling, compliance with strict regulations, and above all, a deep understanding of animal welfare.
For Qatar Airways Cargo, live animal transportation is not just about moving a shipment from point A to point B; it is about ensuring that every animal receives the highest level of care and welfare.
“Animals are not just cargo. They are living beings, and it is our responsibility to ensure they are handled with the care and attention they deserve,” Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, said.
Drusch detailed how Qatar Airways Cargo is leading the way in live animal transport, the key challenges facing the industry, and how the airline is investing in cutting-edge infrastructure, digital solutions, and sustainability efforts to set new standards.
World-class facility
With demand for live animal transport increasing across multiple sectors—from luxury pet travel and equestrian sports to livestock shipments and conservation efforts—Qatar Airways Cargo has taken proactive steps to enhance its capabilities.
A key part of this strategy was the launch of the state-of-the-art Animal Centre in Doha, designed to raise the bar for live animal handling in air cargo.
“Our Doha facility is a game-changer,” Drusch stated.
“We designed it with the highest animal welfare standards in mind. It provides temperature-controlled holding areas, veterinary support, and dedicated spaces for different species, ensuring that animals experience minimal stress throughout the journey.”
The facility allows for efficient transit operations, reducing the time animals spend in unfamiliar surroundings.
“A lot of stress for animals comes from long waiting times at airports, handling errors, or inadequate facilities,” he explained. “We have worked to eliminate those factors as much as possible.”
Challenges in live animal transport
While the demand for animal transport is growing, so are the challenges. Drusch highlighted three major pain points in the industry: “One of the biggest hurdles we face is a lack of aircraft specifically suited to carrying live animals.”
Many airlines have reduced freighter operations post-pandemic, limiting options for aviation-certified animal shipments.
“Not all aircraft are designed to safely carry live animals. Without the right fleet, it becomes difficult to maintain welfare standards, particularly for larger animals like horses or livestock.”
Qatar Airways Cargo has been working closely with IATA, the European Commission, and industry stakeholders to ensure compliance while maintaining safe and efficient transport services.
“The regulatory landscape is evolving fast, particularly in Europe, where new legislation could reshape how live animals are transported by air,” Drusch explained.
“We don’t just follow regulations—we help shape them,” he added. “Our goal is to lead by example, ensuring that every regulatory change improves animal welfare rather than creating unnecessary barriers to transportation.”
Ethical transport
Environmental concerns and ethical considerations are becoming more central to the discussion on live animal transport.
“Sustainability is critical,” Drusch stated. “We are actively exploring ways to reduce the carbon footprint of our animal transport operations, whether through optimising flight paths, investing in fuel-efficient aircraft, or improving ground handling processes.”
The airline has also partnered with United for Wildlife, an organisation committed to combating illegal wildlife trade.
“We take a firm stance against any unethical transport of live animals,” he outlined. “Our commitment is not just about business—it’s about doing what’s right.”
Tracking transports
Qatar Airways Cargo has been rapidly expanding its digital capabilities to ensure that owners, breeders, and conservation groups can track their animals in real-time.
“Technology plays a crucial role in ensuring animal welfare,” Drusch highlighted.
“With our digital platforms, customers can monitor their shipments, receive status updates, and even track temperature conditions during transit.”
The airline’s QR Live product has set new standards for end-to-end visibility in animal transport.
“Whether it’s a racehorse being shipped for a competition, a conservation project moving endangered species, or a family relocating with their pet, they all want one thing: peace of mind. Our technology helps provide that.”
He also believes that automation and AI will play a greater role in the future.
“The more we integrate smart technology, the more efficient and safe animal transport will become. AI can help predict delays, reroute shipments, and optimise handling processes to reduce stress on the animals.”
Despite challenges, the live animal transport sector continues to grow.
Qatar Airways Cargo has seen rising demand across multiple sectors, particularly in:
– Luxury pet travel, with more owners choosing premium air transport for their pets.
– Equestrian events, where racehorses and showjumpers need specialist care in transit.
– Conservation projects, where endangered species are transported to new protected habitats.
– Livestock exports, particularly to Asia and the Middle East.
Investing in the animal sector
More airlines are recognising the importance of bolstering their capabilities in infrastructure and expertise.
“We are seeing a trend where airlines are dedicating more resources to animal transport,” he says. “The demand is there, and those who invest in quality services will lead the market.
“We want to be the airline that people trust with their animals,” Drusch states. “We take this responsibility seriously, and we will continue to invest in infrastructure, compliance, and innovation to ensure that animals receive the best care possible during transit.
“The future is about greater transparency, better technology, and improved facilities,” he concludes. “Our job is not just to move animals—it’s to move them safely, ethically, and with the highest level of care.”
