IAG Cargo has partnered with Airbridge International Agencies (AIA Pets) to fly 50 rescue animals on a flight from Cyprus to the UK.

A handful of charities in Cyprus rescued and housed the 36 dogs and 14 cats before giving them essential medical checks and organising new homes for them in the UK.

Trained handlers then tended to the animals as they travelled on a British Airways 747 cargo flight from Larnaca to London Heathrow.

When the animals arrived at London Heathrow, they were transported by road to Gatwick’s Animal Reception Centre for temporary housing before being collected by their new owners.

British Airways captain, Paul Walker-Northwood, who was a member of the flight crew operating the flight, commented: “In these difficult times, our teams are working around the clock to help bring customers home and fly essential supplies into the UK and to communities around the world most in need.

“We were pleased to support this mission to bring these new four-legged family members to the UK to give them the chance of better, more comfortable lives here with their new owners.

“At British Airways, animal welfare is important to us and we know how important it is to our customers. We are sure their arrival will bring real much-needed pleasure to their new families during a challenging period.”

AIA Pets chief executive, Mark Andrew, added: “We’d like to offer a special thank you to all of those involved in arranging this special flight and are proud to play our part in delivering these pets to their new home.”

In addition to the 50 animals onboard the flight, essential cargo such as food and medical supplies was also transported.

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