Special delivery: Pygmy hippos take flight from Madrid to Frankfurt

Special delivery: Pygmy hippos take flight from Madrid to Frankfurt

This week, they have marked a special occasion for aviation and animal welfare enthusiasts. Two charming pygmy hippos from the Seville Zoo embarked on a significant journey aboard an A321F freighter by Lufthansa Cargo, travelling from Madrid to Frankfurt en route to their new home in Mumbai, India.

Transporting animals, especially exotic species like pygmy hippos, requires extraordinary care and precise coordination. The flight, expertly handled by a dedicated team led by Antonio J. Dinis Queiros in Spain, showcased meticulous plspecialisedspecialized equipment designed to ensure the safety and comfort of these unique passengers.

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“This week, we had some exceptional guests on our A321F freighter flight from Madrid to Frankfurt: two pygmy hippos from the Seville Zoo were being transported to Mumbai, India,” said Lufthansa Cargo.

The welfare of the hippos was the operation’s paramount concern. To prepare for their journey, the team implemented several measures:

  • Customised Crates: Designed to fit the specific needs of pygmy hippos, these crates provide secure and comfortable enclosures.
  • Temperature Control: The freighter was equipped with climate control systems to maintain an optimal environment, mirroring the hippos’ natural habitat.
  • Veterinary Oversight: Veterinary experts monitored the hippos’ health throughout the transport, ensuring they remained stress-free and healthy.

This unique flight is part of the ongoing operations of the A321F freighter, which flies from Madrid to Frankfurt every Wednesday and Saturday. By connecting Spain to a vast global network, the service aims to meet the needs of Spanish customers and enhance logistic capabilities in the region.

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Pygmy Hippos take flight from Madrid to Frankfurt / Photo by Lufthansa Group
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Anastasiya Simsek

Anastasiya Simsek is an award-winning journalist with a background in air cargo, news, medicine, and lifestyle reporting. She began her career in 2016 at top Ukrainian TV networks, including 24 Channel and 1+1 Media. In 2024, Anastasiya joined Air Cargo Week, quickly making her mark in the air cargo industry. She was honored as the Technology Journalist of the Year at the 2024 Seahorse Freight Association Awards. For exclusive insights or to share your news, contact Anastasiya at anastasiya.simsek@aircargoweek.com.

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