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
Picture of Anastasiya Simsek

Anastasiya Simsek

Anastasiya Simsek started her journalism career in 2016 at Ukrainian TV-Channels: 24 Channel and 1+1 Media. Having worked across a number of different sectors, including news, medicine and lifestyle, she joined the Air Cargo Week editorial team in 2024. To share your news and exclusive insights, contact Anastasiya.Simsek@AirCargoWeek.com

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