LATAM Cargo Brazil has transported two bears from Fortaleza to Sao Paulo, on their way to a wildlife sanctuary.

The bears were transported in partnership with the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) and the Fortaleza State Environmental Superintendence.

The payload of 1.3 tonnes travelled on a Boeing 767-300ER, and the loading was overseen by veterinarians and animal protection experts.

Preparation of the aircraft and loading began six hours in advance of the departure time and involved more than 20 LATAM Cargo co-workers to ensure the well-being and safety of the bears.

The animals, who had lived in a zoo in Ceará, were rescued from a circus and will be welcomed by the Rancho dos Gnomos Ecological Sanctuary Association.

The partnership between LATAM Cargo Brazil and IBAMA started in 2009 and has facilitated the transport of more than 4,500 animals in projects aimed at preserving Brazilian fauna.