IAG Cargo, the freight division of the UK-Spanish airline group IAG, has solidified its collaboration with Animal Aircare, designating the animal transportation services provider as its official export partner for animal shipments at London Heathrow International Airport. This partnership builds on their existing relationship, as Animal Aircare has been IAG Cargo’s animal import partner since February 2023.
The expanded agreement, which took effect in early August, underscores Animal Aircare’s expertise in animal transport and the shared commitment of both companies to ensuring the welfare of animals during transit. Mark Andrew, director of Animal Aircare, expressed enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “Having successfully handled imports for IAG Cargo over the past 18 months, we are excited about the opportunity to expand our services and venture into exports from Heathrow Airport.”
Animal Aircare operates the Border Control Post at London Gatwick, which includes an Animal Reception Centre, as well as an ARC facility at Heathrow. Their Animal Welfare Officers are responsible for the safe and secure handling of all animals during their temporary stay at the airport.
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The care of transported animals is a priority for several carriers. In August, Canada-based WestJet Cargo announced an expansion of its pet transportation services from Canada to Gatwick, Heathrow, and Edinburgh, responding to increasing demand for reliable international pet travel between Canada and Europe.
In related developments at Heathrow, IAG Cargo recently unveiled a new control centre designed to enhance operational efficiency. The London Operations Control Centre features advanced real-time cargo monitoring technology, enabling the management of over 2,000 freight movements daily. The facility is equipped with audio-visual tools and a digital wall to improve coordination and situational awareness.
An IAG Cargo statement emphasized that this investment would facilitate improved operational efficiency, allowing teams to quickly access real-time data on freight positioning and key operational metrics, all centralized in one platform.
