Below is just a few of the actual Animal Incidents Reported by Airlines in the last years. The majority of these incidents could have been avoided if Pet Owners had properly prepared their pet carrier kennels.
PLEASE remember one missing bolt or faulty attachment can mean the difference between LIFE & DEATH for your traveling pet and always cable tie your own pets kennel door shut and do not open till you reach your final destination. Do Not depend on your airline to supply these hand releasable ties once you are at the airport it will be too late if they do not have them on hand.
It is our goal at DryFur.com to completely eliminate these type of incidents from continue to occur this year and the y
ears to follow.
Please watch our video “How to Prepare your Pet Airline Kennel” and read our “Pet Airline Carrier Checklist” to ensure your pet carrier is safe & comfortable for airline travel.
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Reports For April JUST RELEASED JUNE 2010 THIS WAS A HORRIBLE month For Pets traveling on Airlines…
6 DOGS DIED ALL LISTED AS BULL DOGS. ALL ON DIFFERENT FLIGHTS. PLEASE PET OWNERS ONLY AS A LAST RESORT PUT A PET WITH A SNUB NOSE (Brachycephalic) IN THE CARGO AREA OF ANY PLANE
FACT: MORE THAN HALF OF ALL DOGS THAT PASS AWAY WHILE ON AIRLINES ARE SNUB NOSED DOGS. PLEASE THINK FIRST!
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Below is the NEWEST REPORTS – Sorry to report CAT / Dog ESCAPE is STILL the most common incident reported.
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THE FAMOUS JACK THE CAT that Was Lost on AA Flight
AMERICAN AIRLINES / AUGUST, 2011
DOT PET INCIDENT REPORT
Carrier and Flight Number
American Airlines Flight #177
Date and Time of the Incident
25 August 2011
Description of the Animal, Including Name
Feline “Tabby Cat”, named Jack
Narrative Description of Incident
This incident occurred prior to the loading of the kennel(s) on the aircraft. The customer was traveling with 2 kennels containing 1 cat in each one. A clerk had placed one kennel on top of another on a baggage cart and the kennel on top fell and resulted in the cat escaping. The entire FIS area, where this occurred, was searched and efforts to immediately locate “Jack” were unsuccessful. Subsequent efforts to locate Jack have also been unsuccessful. Some of the extraordinary efforts taken by AA to locate Jack include: posting photos of Jack in key areas around JFK and local businesses, consulting with the Mayor’s Alliance Society to set up humane traps on the airport property, consulting with the port authority and wildlife management representatives, hiring a professional “pet tracker” and issuing a “Pet Amber Alert”.
Narrative Description of Cause of the Incident
The clerk responsible for transporting the kennels to the FIS area loaded one kennel on top of another, and while the kennels were stationary and waiting to be loaded on the aircraft, the kennel positioned on the top fell to the ground. The impact of the fall caused the kennel to separate and the cat escaped.
Narrative Description of any Corrective Action Taken in Response to Incident
This incident is still under investigation and no corrective action has been taken at this time.
“To avoid this type of incident I suggest you only allow your pet to travel in a kennel that is secured with many metal nuts and bolts and has cable ties installed all around the door. Even if your Airline allows other types of kennels like ones that have plastic attachment rather than metal nuts and bolts, do not fall in this trap…This incident was most likely caused by a combination of mistakes, the owner providing a non-airworthy travel kennel for Jack to travel in and the airline accepting the non-airline worthy kennel and the biggest mistake was the airline agent stacking the kennel with a moving living pet inside very dangerous. I do not even recommend you set an occupied kennel on top of a counter top without very close supervision. Most likely the kennel Jack traveled in was a kennel secured with plastic dial latches or snap latches which are extremely unstable and fall apart easily with normal use but especially if they suffer a substantial fall on a hard surface such as the loading area of the tarmac.”
#1 Most Memorable:
Animal Incident Report
To the U.S. Department of Transportation
Pursuant to 14 CFR 234.13
Submitted by United Airlines
Reporting Period: December 1, 2006 – December 31, 2006
Total submitted incidents – 1
United Flight: Lufthansa Flight 4869 and United Flight 903 MAN/MUC/IAD
December 28, 2006: 3:00 PM Animal: Cat
Narrative Description:
Description of incident:
On December 28, 2006 passenger checked a cat in a kennel on Lufthansa Airlines from Manchester England to Munich with a connection to United’s flight 903 to Washington Dulles. On arrival in Dulles the kennel door was ajar and the kennel was empty. The aircraft hold was checked as was adjoining areas of the aircraft. Further attempts to locate the cat on the airport grounds were ongoing. The cat was discovered on the same aircraft, on January 16, 2007 in Denver. The cat was immediately taken to a veterinarian hospital where she was treated for dehydration and released and delivered to the owner.
Description of cause of the incident:
The kennel was in good condition and it cannot be determined when the kennel door became ajar.
Description of any corrective action taken:
United procedures were followed and we continued in our efforts to locate the cat. Upon locating the cat we immediately provided care by taking the cat to a veterinarian. We are examining and analyzing our hold configuration and will implement any changes deemed necessary resulting from the analysis
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Carrier: Alaska Airlines
Flight: 138 (Anchorage, AK to Chicago-O’Hare, IL)
Date of incident: Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Time of incident: Approximately 10:50 A.M. ET
Description of animal (including name): A female eight-year-old American bull dog/pit-bull mix.
Narrative description of incident: Upon the arrival of the baggage cart planeside, the Anchorage ramp agent found, an eight year old dog, out of her kennel and loose inside the baggage cart. Airline personnel immediately tried to block each side of the baggage cart while a third agent went to notify the pet’s owner, and to ask her to help get the dog back into her kennel. During this time the dog escaped from the baggage cart and ran for over an hour prior to being caught. The dog and her owner were both rebooked for same flight the next day. It appeared that the dog scraped her nose during her kennel escape and agents found some blood inside the kennel.
Narrative description of the cause of the incident: An eight year old dog escaped from her kennel. She was later found with a scrape to her nose. The customer told the ramp staff that the last person to secure the kennel was the TSA agent. The customer also said she told the TSA agent that she knew that her dog could open the kennel door, but she didn’t have anything to secure the kennel door with. There is no evidence to suggest that the airline’s handling contributed to the animal’s escape.
Narrative description of any corrective action taken in response to the incident:
No action required and no photographs available
Troy Rimmelspacher, Alaska Airlines, Manager, Baggage Services, (877) 815-8253
Troy.Rimmelspacher@alaskaair.com
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Carrier: Alaska Airlines
Flight: 368 (Seattle, WA to Sacramento, CA)
Date of incident: January 29, 2012
Time of incident: Approximately 10:10 A.M. PT
Description of animal (including name): A snub nosed Boston terrier dog, unknown age, or sex.
Narrative description of incident: A dog in its kennel was being transferred by our Cargo agent, when the kennel separated and the dog escaped. The dog ran across the airport access roads, under the airport perimeter fence and out onto the roadway. The dog was then struck by a car and a Good Samaritan stopped and took the dog to VCA Five Corners Animal Hospital in Burien, WA. The veterinarian confirmed that the dog had a broken jaw. The dog required surgery and was released on February 2, 2012.
Narrative description of the cause of the incident: A dog in its kennel was being carried when the kennel separated.
Narrative description of any corrective action taken in response to the incident:
No action required.
No photographs available
Troy Rimmelspacher, Alaska Airlines, Manager, Baggage Services, (877) 815-8253
Troy.Rimmelspacher@alaskaair.com
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Carrier: Alaska Airlines
Flight: 851 (Seattle, WA to Honolulu, HI)
Date of incident: January 29, 2012
Time of incident: Approximately 2:15 P.M. HT
Description of animal (including name): a Bulldog, unknown age, or sex.
Narrative description of incident: A bulldog in its kennel was being transported to the Pet Quarantine facility by our agent, when the kennel separated and the dog escaped. The dog ran onto the ramp area and was found a short time later with injuries to its legs. The owners were notified and the dog was taken to the Animal Clinic in Waipahu, was treated and released.
Narrative description of the cause of the incident: A dog in its kennel was being carried when the kennel separated.
Narrative description of any corrective action taken in response to the incident:
No action required.
No photographs available
Troy Rimmelspacher, Alaska Airlines, Manager, Baggage Services, (877) 815-8253
Troy.Rimmelspacher@alaskaair.com
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AMERICAN AIRLINES / January 2012
DOT PET INCIDENT REPORT
Carrier and Flight Number
American Airlines Flight #462 DFW-MCO
Date and Time of the Incident
17 JAN 2012 19:55
Description of the Animal, Including Name
Dog – Name: Cup Cake
Narrative Description of Incident
Dog was shipped Priority Parcel Service (AWB#7791 9383) from Newark to Dallas/Ft. Worth, then connecting to Orlando. During the offloading process, the kennel bottom half came unsnapped and dropped off, causing the dog to run free on the tarmac. Subsequently, the dog was found deceased on the active runway.
Narrative Description of Cause of the Incident
The agent at Newark accepted a “snap-together” type kennel. AA policy prohibits acceptance of this kennel type, since the plastic snaps are prone to failure during shipping.
Narrative Description of any Corrective Action Taken in Response to Incident
AA training has released system-wide advisories to all Cargo and Passenger Service personnel reinforcing the prohibition of snap-together kennels for Cargo shipments or customer checked-pets. Additionally, the live animal checklist was updated with a more precise description of a snap top kennel. Lastly, the live animal acceptance training lesson is in the process of being updated with this information as well.
Type: Injury
Date of Incident: January 7, 2012
Location: Atlanta, GA
Routing: Sarasota, FL (SRQ) – Atlanta, GA (ATL) – Las Vegas, NV (LAS); Flight – DL 1678
AWB: 006- 24501584
Description of Animal: 3yr old male Cocker Spaniel, weighing approximately 42lbs, named “Bentley”
Description of Incident: Bentley was accepted for transport on DL1678 on January 7, 2012 at our cargo facility in SRQ. All documents were reviewed and processed in accordance with Delta’s live animal procedures.
Flight 1678 departed SRQ at 1255 and arrived on schedule into ATL at 1422. Approximate temperatures in SRQ and ATL, respectively, were 70F and 50F. On arrival in ATL our handling agents observed blood on the outside Bentley’s crate as they were unloading the aircraft. Bentley damaged his two front incisors during flight while attempting to excavate himself from the kennel. He managed to escape, biting an employee in the interim, but he was immediately recaptured and delivered to our warehouse for medical attention.
Bentley was seen by local veterinarian, Dr. Daniel Cleland of Briarcliff Animal Clinic. After consulting with us and Bentley’s owners, the decision was made to treat the injuries and allow Bentley time to rest and recover by remaining overnight in ATL. On January 9th, Bentley resumed his travels on DL1709 and arrived safely in LAS.
Cause of Incident: Self inflicted wounds
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INCIDENT #2:
CO flight #12 Honolulu to Los Angeles Cat – Dom short hair – Male /age approx 5 yrs
June 25, 2011 Male / Name: “Koohi”
Owner/Guardian
REDACTED
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
Description of the Incident:
Koohi was on his way to the aircraft in Honolulu when he managed to escape his crate. It was zip tied but not on all four sides of door, he still was able to push the door out enough to squeeze through the top. Koohi was found 3 days later lying deceased on airport property.
Description of the Cause of the Incident:
Koohi escaped his crate and was loose within the secure area of the Honolulu Airport for three days while several people searched for him. Reward posters and live traps were used but despite our efforts, he was found deceased on airport property on day 3. A necropsy was performed and the cause of death could not be determined. The Veterinarian in charge believes that he could’ve perished from dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Description of any corrective action taken:
Honolulu Vendor company was put on warning and their accepting agent was disciplined regarding the proper placement of our mandatory zip ties.
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HAWAIIAN AIRLINES
ANIMAL INCIDENT REPORT
Date: 23SEP11
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Reporting Station: HNL
Flight: HA25
From: PDX
To: HNL
Animal Information:
Name: Unknown
Description: Dog/Pug
Incident:
Agent unloaded the dog and kennel from the aft bulk. The dog escaped while waiting to be picked up. The dog ran from Gate 61 to Elliott Street fence line and back. The dog was finally cornered near the Island Air Baggage Claim and sustained injuries to his paws that will require veterinarian care.
Cause:
Defective Kennel. Painters tape and zip ties were used to secure the kennel. Animal pushed door open and escaped. (NO NUTS AND BOLTS)
Corrective action: HA to reimburse vet bills. Agents to be trained on how to identify defective kennels prior to acceptance.
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LIVE ANIMAL INCIDENT REPORT NW AIRLINES
Cargo Incident Report #0909-1
Type:Death
Date of Incident:September 11, 2009
Location:Charlotte, NC
Routing:Charlotte – Minneapolis/St., Paul
Northwest Flight 5748
Minneapolis/St. Paul – Anchorage
Northwest Flight 393
AWB:012 CLT 4481 6553
Shipper / Owner / Guardian:Redacted
Consignee:Redacted
Description of Animal:4.5 year old Chocolate Labrador, named “Dixie”
Description of Incident:Dixie was accepted by Northwest’s contract cargo handler, Worldwide Flight Services-WFS (a USDA registered intermediate handler) in their facility at the Charlotte airport. She escaped from her kennel while being transported between the cargo facility and the aircraft. Immediate attempts were made to capture her, but she escaped under the airport perimeter fence. Northwest, Delta and WFS continued to search for her daily and posters of Dixie were distributed in the area. Dixie was found on September 22 by a local Animal Control officer who shot her with a tranquilizing dart to subdue her. The dart unfortunately hit several vital organs. Despite emergency surgery to remove her spleen and to repair the damage caused by the dart, Dixie died later that evening.
Cause of the Incident:Upon further investigation, several bolts were found missing from the kennel. In addition, the WFS agent failed to follow Northwest’s standard procedure of further securing the kennel door with removable zip ties. The probable cause of Dixie’s escape was the accidental opening of the kennel door due to weakening of the door and kennel structure caused by the missing hardware. The cause of her death was a combination of the tranquilizing drugs and the severity of her injuries caused by the dart itself.
Corrective Action Taken:The agent responsible for inspecting the kennel at acceptance was reprimanded. All WFS employees at Charlotte were thoroughly re-trained on Northwest’s live animal acceptance and handling policies and procedures.
Prepared by:Redacted
Filed on behalf of NW by:Redacted
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AMERICAN AIRLINES / June 2009
Carrier and Flight Number
American Airlines Flight #1937 (BOS – SJU)
Date and Time of the Incident
23 June 2009
Narrative Description of Incident
The kennel was being moved to a shaded area, after being offloaded in SJU, and when it was lifted by the kennel handle, the kennel door opened and the dog escaped. The dog was captured and taken to a local veterinarian for treatment to its two front paws. The tarmac in SJU was extremely warm and the dog developed ulcers on its two front paws.
Narrative Description of Cause of the Incident
The customer had intended to carry the kennel on-board and was advised at the gate that it had to be gate checked. The agent at the gate did not have any zip ties to secure the kennel door. As a result, when it was off loaded in SJU and lifted by the kennel handle, the door opened and the dog escaped.
Narrative Description of any Corrective Action Taken in Response to Incident
Zip ties were not available at the gate in BOS. Our BOS station management was made aware of this event and measures to avoid a similar incident have been taken. For example, pet procedures were reviewed with the agents involved and zip ties will be made available at the gate/ramp areas.
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Delta Air Lines
Live Animal Incident Report -REDACTED
Reporting Period: February 1 –February 28, 2009
Carrier
Delta Air Lines
Flight Number
DL1635 – BWI – SLC
DL1193 – SLC – ANC
Date and Time of Incident
February 15, 2009 – approximately 1422
Type of Incident
Escape
Description of Animal
Breed: Domestic Shorthair Feline
Age: 10 yrs 7 mos
Description of the Incident
On February 15, 2009, two domesticated cats were presented for travel at the cargo facility in Baltimore, Maryland (BWI). The cats were destined for Anchorage, AK (ANC) via Salt Lake City, UT (SLC). They were presented in two separate kennels, one male and one female. They were processed, inspected and both kennels met the IATA container requirements. The cats were placed in a cart for delivery to their departing flight. Once the ramp driver arrived at the gate he proceeded to unload the kennels. He noticed one kennel was empty and that the cat had escaped; however the front door of the kennel was still closed. Immediate steps were taken to locate the escaped feline. The shipper was notified of the incident and calls were also made to the airport police and the Airport Wildlife Biologist group, who bought out traps to assist with its capture.
We are continuing our efforts to retrieve the escaped animal, including the distribution of alert posters in the breakroom areas, as well as the non-public contact TSA Offices.
Cause of the Incident
Unknown
Corrective Action Taken
It was determined the acceptance agent handling this shipment failed to apply releasable cable ties to the front door as per Delta’s internal policies for Live Animal shipments. Agent was placed on administrative action.
Don’t let your beloved pet become another Pet Airline Incident. Watch our videos and learn how to prepare your pet travel kennel like a Professional Pet Shipper!
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***REDACTED***
AMERICAN AIRLINES / December 2008
DOT PET INCIDENT REPORT
Carrier and Flight Number
American Airlines Flight #905 (MIA-GIG)
Date and Time of the Incident
01 DEC 2008 at 12:05
Description of the Animal, Including Name
Canine, English Bulldog named Bake
Narrative Description of Incident
Dog was deceased upon arrival in GIG and immediately taken to local vet for necropsy. Immediate results of tissue samples were negative for rabies and parasites. The final results of the report were not conclusive as to the exact cause of death.
Narrative Description of Cause of the Incident
The dog was discovered deceased upon arrival in GIG. The dog was immediately transported to a veterinary hospital where the exact cause of death remains unknown.
Narrative Description of any Corrective Action Taken in Response to Incident
Because the exact cause of death is unknown, there is no immediate action necessary in response to this incident.
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Carrier: Alaska Airlines
Flight: AS19 (MCO-SEA)
Date of incident: Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Time of incident: 5:30 P.M. ET
Description of animal (including name): a female mixed breed dog, unknown age.
Narrative description of incident: While kennel was on the ramp waiting to be loaded into aircraft, the dog escaped from the kennel. The pet owner was contacted and brought down to the ramp to assist on capturing her dog. Airport authorities also assisted and after numerous attempts to capture the dog, we were unsuccessful and the dog crossed over to the access road and was hit and killed by a vehicle. Local airport authorities secured the remains.
Narrative description of the cause of the incident: A dog escaped from kennel, ran onto access road and was struck by a vehicle and killed. There is no evidence to suggest that the airline’s handling contributed to the animal’s condition in any way.
Narrative description of any corrective action taken in response to the incident:
No action required.
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AMERICAN AIRLINES / MARCH 2008
DOT PET INCIDENT REPORT
Carrier and Flight Number
American Airlines Flight 123
Date and Time of the Incident
March 12, 2008 at 1515
Description of the Animal, Including Name
Male dog, pit bull, 78 pounds, 7 years old named Legion
Narrative Description of Incident
Upon off loading the flight in HNL, the dog was found outside his kennel. The kennel was chewed from the inside and the door was pulled inward. Attempts were made to put him back in his kennel, but he ran down the belt loader and fell onto the ramp. He ran into a ready-room where he was finally placed back into his kennel. He had 3 nails that were bleeding. It is unclear if they were injured while attempting to get out of his kennel or when he fell onto the ramp. He was taken to the vet by the owner and is recovering nicely.
Narrative Description of Cause of the Incident
The dog did not want to be in his kennel so he chewed on it and managed to pull the door inward.
Narrative Description of any Corrective Action Taken in Response to Incident
Remind DFW personnel to ensure kennels are well constructed and of sufficient strength for the type of animal inside and that releasable cable ties are required on all 4 corners of the kennel.
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INCIDENT #1:
CO Flight #554 Houston to Pittsburgh Dog – Australian Shepherd / 8 years
February 21, 2008 Male/ Name: “Dingo”
Owner/Guardian
REDACTED
Narrative Description:
Description of the Incident:
After removing the animal’s crate from the aircraft in Pittsburgh, Dingo became very scared and was jumping / wiggling inside his crate causing his kennel to roll off the baggage cart (where he was staged). Upon hitting the ground, the crate popped open and Dingo began running around the tarmac. After approximately 20-30 minutes, Dingo jumped into the open truck door of the agents chasing him. His only injury was to the pads of his feet from running on concrete.
Dingo was immediately taken by his owner to the veterinarian and Continental paid for the initial vet visit and a follow-up. Dingo has fully recovered and his owner was pleased at how Continental handled the matter.
Description of the Cause of the Incident:
Dingo became scared and toppled his crate off the cart, and upon hitting the ground, his crate door popped open.
Description of any corrective action taken:
Remind agents downloading animals that they should be placed on the ground until ready to move, and then must be in a PetSafe van or secured in another vehicle where the animal’s crate cannot fall.
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Reporting Period: December 1 -31, 2007
Continental Air
January 15, 2008
TOTAL ANIMALS SHPPED DURING REPORTING PERIOD: 10,263
TOTAL REPORTABLE INCIDENTS DURING PERIOD: 1
% OF REPORTABLE INCIDENTS TO ANIMALS HANDLED: 0.01%
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INCIDENT #1:
CO Flight #1783 Phoenix to Houston Dog – Corgi Mix / 5 years old
December 5, 2007 Female / Name: “Daisy”
Owner/Guardian REDACTED
Narrative Description:
Description of the Incident:
The animal was tendered in Phoenix and upon aircraft arrival in Houston, the animal had escaped from her crate and jumped from the aircraft when the agents opened the door. Continental agents gave chase and were able to safely capture the animal after a few minutes of running and after it bit 1 Continental employee. The dog’s paw pads were scratched from running on the concrete. The animal was treated at a local vet at Continental’s expense and released to its owner.
Description of the Cause of the Incident:
The crate couldn’t secure the dog that wanted out despite Continental representatives in Phoenix adding zip ties to the crate’s door.
Description of any corrective action taken:
Continental reminded Phoenix agents to take additional care when adding zip ties to a crate that houses an aggressive dog that does not appear acclimated to its crate, to help prevent future escapes.
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Delta Air Lines Live Animal Incident Report – Redacted
Reporting Period: November 1, 2007- November 30, 2007
Carrier Delta Air Lines
Flight Number Flight # 1409/30 PHL/SLC
Date and Time of Incident November 30, 2007 – 1630
Type of Incident Escape
Description of Animal Breed: Feline
Age: unknown at this time
Description of the Incident
A kennel containing a live cat was being transported to flight 1409/30. The driver secured kennel before departing the cargo facility. Upon arrival to the departure gate, driver noticed the cat had escaped from the kennel. The cat escaped through top hatch during transport from the cargo facility to the gate area. The kennel did not meet IATA container requirements #1. The kennel did not have a solid roof.
Cause of the Incident
The acceptance of a non-compliant kennel and not securing releasable cable ties to secure the kennel door.
Corrective Action Taken
Cargo and ramp agents conduct search daily. Airport agents notified to keep watch for cat. Station manager contacted customer of incident. Direct follow up with Delta Station Managers at origin which included briefing accepting agents on proper procedures for securing kennel doors and IATA container requirements.
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Reporting Period: November 1 -30, 2007
REDACTED
December 14, 2007
TOTAL ANIMALS SHPPED DURING REPORTING PERIOD: 7,473
TOTAL REPORTABLE INCIDENTS DURING PERIOD: 1
% OF REPORTABLE INCIDENTS TO ANIMALS HANDLED: 0.01%
INCIDENT #1:
CO Flight #551 Raleigh- Houston Cat – Domestic Short hair-12yrs old
November 5, 2007 Male / Name: “Scramble”
Owner/Guardian
REDACTED
Narrative Description:
Description of the Incident: The animal was tendered in Raleigh and was being transported to the aircraft when the crate’s door popped open and the animal escaped.
Description of the Cause of the Incident: The crate appears to be a cheaper, thinner plastic and did not withstand normal handling. The crate’s door popped open which allowed the animal to escape.
Description of any corrective action taken: Staff at Raleigh was reprimanded for not applying Continental’s required zip-ties on the door of the crate, per Continental’s policy, which would’ve prevented this escape. The cat’s owner has been flown to back to Raleigh to assist in the search but the cat was not located; however, Continental personnel continue to keep live traps out and near the place of escape in hopes of capturing Scramble. The efforts are on-going.
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Live Animal Incident Report – Redacted
Reporting Period: October 1, 2007 – October 31, 2007
Carrier: Comair
Flight Number: 4989
Date and Time of Incident: 10/22/07 / 5:20a.m.
Type of Incident Escape
Description of Animal Breed: feline
Age: unknown
Description of the Incident
A kennel containing a live cat was being transported to flight 4989. While walking the cat from the operations area to the aircraft, via the ramp, the agent noticed the cat becoming restless and moving about rapidly in the kennel. This agitation appeared to increase as the agent got closer to the aircraft where the APU was running. As the agent approached the aircraft (approximately 4 feet from the belt loader) the cat managed to break open the latch and jumped out of the kennel. Immediately, the cat ran by the First Officer assigned to the flight and ran straight for the runway. At this point the agent realized the cat was not able to be caught and instructed a ramp agent to notify the Lead Agent of the incident. The kennel door was constructed of metal and did meet the IATA container requirements #1. The locking pins were also made of metal and the plastic ty-wraps were secured between the door and the kennel. It appears the cat was able to break the latch from the kennel and force it’s way out through the bottom of the kennel door and escaped.
Cause of the Incident As the cat was being carried towards the aircraft to be boarded, it became agitated and began scratching and clawing at the kennel, eventually disengaging the latch from the kennel door which allowed the escape.
Corrective Action Taken
A review of policies/procedures and proper inspection of kennels has been sent to all Stations that service Comair flights including MDT. The MDT Station set traps to retrieve the cat but were unsuccessful. Local airport police along with TSA and other airlines that serve the MDT airport were advised of the incident and also were alerted to be on the lookout for the cat. Comair Agents were escorted to remote areas of the airport to search for the cat, but those too, proved to be unsuccessful.
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Incident Involving Animal During Air Transport
Date___10/01/07_____SkyWest Flight Number__4068 SLC/PDX______ Time of Incident ____N/A____
Reporting Manager/Supervisor __redacted _______Station_____HDQOO___
Delta Pet First Cargo _X___Checked Baggage____Cabin Pet_____ (check the one that applies)
Description of Animal including name if available _Labrador Retriever puppy named Louie_
Identification of owner(s) and/or guardian of the animal_______redacted
Narrative description of the incident, names of witnesses and/or SkyWest employees involved__________\
When flight 4068 arrived in PDX the puppy was loose in the cargo compartment. The kennel had been damaged (cracked) allowing the puppy to get out of the kennel.
Narrative Description of the cause of the incident (if unknown, indicate unknown)____Possibly incorrect baggage and cargo loading in SLC or shifting of baggage and cargo in flight
Narrative description of any corrective action taken in response to the incident (if none taken, describe reason) _____The puppy was caught and released to owner Pam Stafford. He appeared fine at the time of the release; however, once he arrived home he began to limp and was taken to the vet. An anti-inflammatory drug was prescribed to correct a muscle strain. The damage kennel was replaced This incident was forwarded to the attention of the ramp manager in Salt Lake City for his review and follow up training including memos and briefings for all SLC ramp employees.
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Delta Air Lines Live Animal Incident Report – Redacted
Reporting Period: August 1, 2007 – August 31, 2007
Carrier Delta Air Lines
Flight Number Flight # DL704 LAX-CVG
Date and Time of Incident August 23, 2007 – approximately 2200
Type of Incident Escape
Description of Animal Breed: feline
Age: 2yr/5mth
Description of the Incident
A kennel containing a live cat was being transported to flight 704/23. The driver witnessed the cat jumping out of the cart from his mirror. Immediately, driver stopped and attempted to capture but, was unsuccessful. The kennel door was constructed of plastic and it did not meet the IATA container requirements #1. The locking pins were not made of metal. It appears the cat forced his way out through the bottom of the kennel door and escaped.
Cause of the Incident Bottom of kennel door was not secured with a releasable cable tie and kennel door was made of plastic.
Corrective Action Taken Los Angeles Police Department, FAA, TSA, Los Angeles World Airport, and other air carriers were notified to keep watch for the cat. Daily calls to the local animal shelters, flyers with pictures have been posted and a cage has been set up around the facility with food. A
reminder letter sent system wide concerning proper acceptance and handling procedures. Direct follow up with the Delta Station Manager at origin which included briefing accepting agents on proper procedures for securing kennel doors.
Don’t let your beloved pet become another Pet Airline Incident. Watch our videos and learn how to prepare your pet travel kennel like a Professional Pet Shipper!
Carrier: Alaska Airlines
Flight: 235 (SFO/PDX)
Date of incident: Saturday, August 4, 2007
Time of incident: Approximately 7:30 P.M. (PT)
Description of animal (including name): 5-year-old, small, long-haired, female Cat, Name: Tiger Lilly (AKA: Baby)
Narrative description of incident: (cat jumped out of kennel during loading process and is still missing in San Francisco) While our SFO ramp vendor was loading kennel onto the aircraft, the cat jumped out of kennel and disappeared onto the tarmac. Ramp personnel were not able to retrieve the cat. The SFO Airfield safety division personnel searched the area and were unable to locate the missing cat. The passenger was advised of the situation and boarded a flight to Portland, OR. Despite a thorough investigation, we were unable to gather any additional information on how the cat was able to escape from its cage. The passenger was advised that SFO had harm free traps set up in airfield and that they would check the traps each day for her missing cat. We refunded the passenger’s ticket price ($290.80) as a Customer Service gesture. Owner claims that cat will not come in contact with strangers, the only contact would be with her. The cat has not been located to date.
Narrative description of the cause of the incident: A cat was able to get out of its kennel for unknown reasons and could not be retrieved by ramp personnel.
Narrative description of any corrective action taken in response to the incident:
No action required.
No photographs available
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Live Animal Incident Report
Reporting Period: May 1 – May 31, 2007
Carrier Delta Air Lines
Flight Number Flight # DL152 ATL-TLV
Date and Time of Incident May 10, 2007 – approximately 2200
Type of Incident Escape
Description of Animal Breed: feline
Age: 6yr
Description of the Incident
Passenger was traveling May 10, 2007 ATL-TLV with a cat as checked baggage. The cat was loaded in the bulk hold of the aircraft. When the cargo hold door was opened for final loading the cat had somehow escaped its kennel and darted past the loading agent. An immediate search was conducted by eight ramp agents and the flight crew in attempt to locate and capture the cat, this attempt was unsuccessful. The passenger was notified of the incident and offered the option of temporarily terminating his travel and hotel accommodations until a later date, the passenger elected to continue his travel. The search continued after dispatch of the aircraft and Airport Operations was advised. Kennel was inspected and did meet the IATA container requirements.
Cause of the Incident Unknown
Corrective Action Taken Airport Operations and airport tenants advised of the escape and requested to be on the lookout for the escaped cat.
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Delta Air Lines
Flight Number Flight # DL1877/28 MIA-GSP
Date and Time of Incident July 28, 2007 – approximately 0500
August 6, 2007 – approximately 1730
Type of Incident Escaped / Death
Description of Animal Breed: Domestic short-haired feline
Age: 8 years
Description of the Incident
Cat accepted in an IATA approved container as a cargo shipment in MIA on July 28, 2007 @ 0417, planned routing MIA-ATL-GSP. Agent arrived gate with cat @ 0445/28. The agent confirmed the cat was still in container and ok before departing gate. At 0505 ramp agent came out to load the aircraft and noticed the cat was not in the kennel. On August 6, 2007 around 5:00 pm Delta Operations received a phone call regarding the status of lost cat. The call made by MDAD stated they had noticed a cat sitting on top of the fence around the perimeter of the airport. MDAD wildlife management, Delta Operations supervisor, MDAD Ramp Security officer all attempted to capture the distressed cat from the outside of the fence to prevent the cat from running into Perimeter Road. The cat became agitated and lunged towards the outside officer, running down the fence line and across the ground. The cat ran across Perimeter Road and in front of an oncoming car, was struck by the car and continued across the roadway into the grass on the other side. Involved personnel drove outside the airport to where the cat was lying in the grass. The cat was not breathing and Wildlife Management officer declared the cat was deceased.
Cause of the Incident
Cause unknown, still investigating
Corrective Action Taken
Station manager conducted a training session with each employee to review the importance of assuring all kennel/container doors are shut, locked and secured with cable release ties.
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NW Cargo Incident Report #0707-1
Type:Injury
Date of Incident:July 3, 2007
Location:IAH
Routing:NW 1153 MSP – IAH
AWB:012 MSP 60932874
Description of Animal:
Dog in a 500-size kennel
(Name not supplied to NW by shipper or consignee)
Description of Incident:
The dog sustained a small cut injury to its right paw when it escaped from its kennel during ground handling at IAH. The dog was quickly recovered and placed back in it’s kennel.
Cause of the Incident:
1. Poor kennel design. The kennel met USDA requirements; however its overall flexibility allowed the door frame to deflect out of shape to the point that the locking pins could no longer secure the door. The dog sustained a cut to its paw when it slipped through the partially-opened door.
2. Failure to comply with NW policy
The accepting agent failed to follow established company policy to secure the kennel door with releasable plastic straps.
Corrective Action Taken:NW reiterated its kennel acceptance policy and procedures with all agents.
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CO Flight # 1496 Las Vegas – Houston Cat – Domestic / 2 years old
March 27, 2007 Male / Name: Unknown
Owner/Guardian
REDACTED
Narrative Description:
Description of the Incident:
The cat was accepted from the customer and transported to the aircraft where an agent noticed that the kennel was empty.
Description of the Cause of the Incident:
The kennel door was still closed but the kennel was empty. The cat apparently escaped somewhere near the aircraft at the Las Vegas airport. Also, the animal had been obtained from a rescue shelter two days prior to the flight and was noted to be very timid and shy around people.
Description of any corrective action taken:
Agents were disciplined for not adhering to CO procedures to ensure zip ties were placed on the kennel doors to prevent escapes such as this.
Live traps (humane traps) were set out in the ramp area for several weeks after the disappearance. Additionally, reward posters (up to $500) were placed throughout the airport area but there were no sightings of this cat. The customer was also flown back to Las Vegas and accommodated for several days at Continental’s expense, while he assisted in searching for the cat, but it could not be located.
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Reporting Period: May 1 – May 31, 2007
Carrier Delta Air Lines
Flight Number Flight # DL611 FLL-ATL-SFO
Date and Time of Incident May 31, 2007 – approximately 1330
Type of Incident Death
Description of Animal Breed: canine
Age: 10yr
Description of the Incident
Passenger was traveling May 15, 2007 FLL-ATL-SFO, on arrival in ATL it was discovered the dog chewed through the kennel and escaped in the cargo hold. The dog was captured and returned to the passenger. The passenger decided to return to FLL to have the dog examined and not continue her travel to SFO.
Passenger resumed her travel to SFO on May 31, 2007. Passenger advised dog was administered two Acepromazine tablets as prescribed by her veterinarian. Dog was still agitated at check-in so the passenger administered two more tablets of Acepromazine, placed protective booties over the animal’s paws and muzzled the dog before departure from FLL.
On arrival in ATL loading personnel observed the dog appeared to be breathing heavily. The passenger was contacted to evaluate the condition of her dog. She administered another dose of sedative to the animal and requested re-boarding of the dog for continuation to SFO.
On arrival in SFO the dog appeared to be deceased. The passenger was contacted and brought to the animal at which time CPR was attempted. Transportation was provided for the passenger and her dog to the nearest veterinarian hospital.
Cause of the Incident
Awaiting necropsy report for cause of death.
Corrective Action Taken
Aircraft maintenance was contacted to verify temperature control system was operating correctly in the aircraft, all systems were confirmed to be operating properly.
Our Suggestion: NEVER SEDATE Your Traveling Pets. Acclimate your pet to his carrier kennel many months prior to the flight. Start with a few minutes at a time and increase his time in his kennel until he is comfortable, reinforce by praising him and giving treats.
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Carrier: Alaska Airlines
Flight: 715
Date of incident: 4/28/07
Time of incident: Approx. 4:45p PT
Description of animal (including name): Small Poodle Dog (named Buddy)
Narrative description of incident: (in flight passing)
A pet dog traveling in the animal hold escaped from a two-piece kennel and ran across Seattle ramp/runways and directly into large group of blackberry bushes. The owner and her granddaughter were able to call Buddy out of the blackberry bushes within seconds, however Buddy was bleeding from at least two paws and had a possible loss of one toenail.
Narrative description of the cause of the incident:
Two-piece kennel allowed pet to escape during the connection flight/transfer in Seattle, WA
Narrative description of any corrective action taken in response to the incident:
We have reminded Ticket counter agents to inspect two-piece kennels prior to acceptance, to ensure animal will be secure. We will also continue to suggest that owners secure kennels with zip ties to ensure that they stay in the upright position during use.
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Reporting Period: April 1 – 30, 2007
REDACTED
May 15, 2007
TOTAL ANIMALS SHPPED DURING REPORTING PERIOD: 7,344
TOTAL REPORTABLE INCIDENTS DURING PERIOD: 2
% OF REPORTABLE INCIDENTS TO ANIMALS HANDLED: 0.0002%
Flt #1 Honolulu – Guam Cat – Male / 1 year old
February 27, 2007 Breed: Dom. Short Hair Name: Milo
Owner/Guardian
REDACTED
Narrative Description:
Description of the Incident:
Upon arrival of the flight into Guam, the agents noticed the cat’s kennel was empty. He apparently escaped his crate at or near the aircraft upon loading in Honolulu. Additionally, Continental worked closely with U.S. Fish and Wildlife to search for Milo at Honolulu Airport after he was spotted in the area. Officials set traps for Milo and reward posters were distributed throughout the airport area. A reward of up to $500 was offered for the return of the cat but attempts to capture him were unsuccessful. The owner was then flown from Guam back to Honolulu for the weekend at Continental’s expense to search for her lost cat, but she was unable to find him. To date, no additional sightings have been noted and we are officially closing the file and compensating the customer for her loss.
Description of the Cause of the Incident: The kennel door (top loading) were closed upon arrival into Guam. Apparently, the animal was able to push his way out of the crate by pushing on the kennel’s door.
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Type: Injury
Date/Time of Incident:March 20, 2007, approx. 6:00pm Central Time
Location:MSP
Routing:NW #312 LAX-MSP
NW #626 MSP-IAD
Description of Animal:Cat
Description of Incident:Cat escaped from its kennel while in transit. Animal was easily captured upon arrival into MSP and placed in a loaner kennel. Cat had a scratch on its face.
Cause of the Incident: Cat was accepted in a collapsible kennel contrary to NW policy. The top of the kennel was open on arrival. No secondary kennel door ties were present.
Corrective Action Taken: Staff review: Pet acceptance procedures and acceptable kennel standards were reviewed at LAX staff meetings with front-line agents.
Prepared by:Steve Mahon
Senior Specialist – Customer Service Standards
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Animal Incident Report
To the U.S. Department of Transportation
Pursuant to 14 CFR 234.13
Submitted by United Airlines
Reporting Period: January 1, 2007 – January 31, 2007
Total submitted incidents – 2
February 14, 2007
United Flight: 167 IAD/SMF
January 6, 2007: 12:15 PM Animal: Cat
Narrative Description:
Description of incident:
Cat was being shipped as Cargo. Upon attempting to load the kennel on the aircraft in IAD,the kennel door opened and the cat jumped out and ran across a taxiway. Attempts to locate the cat on the airport grounds are ongoing.
Description of cause of the incident:The kennel was in good condition and it cannot be determined when the kennel door became ajar.
Description of any corrective action taken:
None. United procedures were followed..
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Delta Air Lines
Live Animal Incident Report
Reporting Period: December 1 – December 31, 2006
CarrierDelta Air Lines
Flight NumberFlight # DL5297 DCA-JFK
Date and Time of IncidentDecember 26, 2006 – approximately 1730
Type of Incident Escape
Description of AnimalBreed: feline
Age: unknown
Description of the Incident
A kennel containing a live cat was being offloaded from the cargo hold of the aircraft. While traveling down the conveyor an agent witnessed the cat reaching out with its paws from the side of the kennel door. The cat was able to force his way between the kennel door and side of the kennel and escaped onto the ramp. Immediate attempts to capture the cat were unsuccessful.
Cause of the Incident
Bolt and lock nut securing two halves of the kennel located next to the door release was missing.
Corrective Action Taken
Immediate attempt made by multiple ramp agents a crew members to capture the cat.
Immediate notification to Port Authority Police on escape.
Placed kennel in last known location with food in attempt to capture the cat.
Direct follow up with the Delta Station Manager at the origin which included accepting agent on proper procedures for securing kennel doors and verify correct assembly of the kennel.
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Cargo Incident Report #
1106-1
Type:Loss
Date of Incident:
November 30, 2006
(Investigation completed December 18, 2006)
Location:MCO
Routing:NW 2798 CWA-DTW
NW 422 DTW-MCO
AWB:012 CWA 60452453
Description of Animal:Cat, named “Snowball”
Description of Incident:
The cat escaped from its kennel while being unloaded from the aircraft upon arrival at Orlando. An extensive search has failed to find the cat. The search continues, and Northwest has offered a reward.
Cause of the Incident:
The kennel door came unlatched during normal handling causing the door to open and the cat to escape. The kennel was not damaged. Supplementary door security ties were not applied to the kennel at origin as required by Northwest policy.
Corrective Action Taken:
Reminded all personnel accepting and handling live animals of Northwest’s existing policy requiring supplemental door security ties be applied to all pet kennels.
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Animal Incident Report
To the U.S. Department of Transportation
Pursuant to 14 CFR 234.13
Submitted by United Airlines
Reporting Period: December 1, 2006 – December 31, 2006
Total submitted incidents – 1
United Flight: Lufthansa Flight 4869 and United Flight 903 MAN/MUC/IAD
December 28, 2006: 3:00 PM Animal: Cat
Narrative Description:
Description of incident:
On December 28, 2006 passenger checked a cat in a kennel on Lufthansa Airlines from Manchester England to Munich with a connection to United’s flight 903 to Washington Dulles. On arrival in Dulles the kennel door was ajar and the kennel was empty. The aircraft hold was checked as was adjoining areas of the aircraft. Further attempts to locate the cat on the airport grounds were ongoing. The cat was discovered on the same aircraft, on January 16, 2007 in Denver. The cat was immediately taken to a veterinarian hospital where she was treated for dehydration and released and delivered to the owner.
Description of cause of the incident:
The kennel was in good condition and it cannot be determined when the kennel door became ajar.
Description of any corrective action taken:
United procedures were followed and we continued in our efforts to locate the cat. Upon locating the cat we immediately provided care by taking the cat to a veterinarian. We are examining and analyzing our hold configuration and will implement any changes deemed necessary resulting from the analysis
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Carrier:Pinnacle Airlines, Inc.
Flight Number:
NW5963
Date & Time of Incident:
4/7/06
Station:
SGF
Description of animal, including name, if available:
1 pound, 8 week old Chihuahua
Type of Incident (check applicable):
___Death ___Escape ___Loss ___Injury _X_Other, specify:Pet arrived sick at station_____________
Incident Description Narrative
Upon arrival at SGF, the Chihuahua puppy was slow to respond and was wet from vomit or urine. Possible Hypothermia.
Narrative Description of the Cause of the Incident
Per the vet it was a small, young dog that became sick inflight.
Pinnacle pet handling procedures were followed.
Narrative Description of Any Corrective Action Taken in Response to Incident
The supervisor contacted and met the consignee at the local vet with the dog. The dog was checked by the vet who determined due to the size of the dog it had only become sick in-flight and was fine.
Name, title, address, and telephone number of the individual filing the report with DOT for Pinnacle
Dana Alexander, Manager, Customer Service Quality Assurance
1689 Nonconnah Boulevard – Suite 111
Memphis, TN 38132
(901) 348-4322
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LIVE ANIMAL INCIDENT REPORT – Redacted
Priority Pet Incident Report
Type:
Escape
Date/Time of Incident:April 19, 2006, approx 14:00
Location:DTW
Routing:OKA-KIX (JL) – KIX-DTW-MSP-FAR (NW)
Description of Animal:Cat; male Siamese named “Mickey” Approx 6 yrs
Description of Incident:Cat escaped from its kennel through door.
Cause of the Incident: Door was closed but not latched.
Passenger originated in Okinawa, Japan with 11 pet cats. Upon arrival into DTW, all 11 cats were brought on cart for Ms. Holm to clear US Customs. Ms. Holm opened the kennel of several cats, including Mickey, to comfort the animals. One of the cats attacked Ms. Holm, scratching her face/neck. Airport paramedics treated her injuries. Passenger was later treated at hospital. Customs and Border Protection agents recaptured the cat that inflicted injury to owner.
After US Custom’s cleared Ms. Holm and the cats, NW personnel loaded the cats into NW’s Priority Pet van for transfer. While filling the water trays of the kennels, NW employee witnessed but was unable to prevent “Mickey” squeeze out the corner of kennel door. Cat jumped out of van and ran into bag room. A search remains active for the cat.
Corrective Action Taken:
Reminder to airports to verify doors are secure before acceptance.
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CO flight 605 OKC-IAH Dalmatian -Blue Heeler Mix / 3years old
August 1, 2005 Female / Name: “Jenni”
Owner/Guardian
REDACTED
Narrative Description: Description of the Incident:
Dog escaped kennel upon arrival in Houston (IAH).
Description of the Cause of the Incident:Kennel was not secured with cable ties and dog was not properly acclimated to his kennel prior to flight. Animal was able to push door open and escape. While running loose on the airport tarmac, the animal injured his paws and he was treated by a local veterinarian at Continental’s expense. Animal traveled to its final destination the next day.
Description of any corrective action taken: Continental’s policy already required cable ties for the kennel door and Continental intends to continue this policy.
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Incident 1
Carrier: Alaska Airlines
Flight: 115
Date of incident: 7/29/05
Time of incident: approximately 5:00pm
Description of animal (including name): Cat named Cricket
Identification of the owner(s) and/or guardian of the animal:
Redacted
Narrative description of incident:A small cat was loaded in the same cargo hold with dry ice. Upon arrival the cat was lethargic.
Narrative description of the cause of the incident:The original load plan for the cargo pits was changed. Dry Ice was inadvertently loaded in the same cargo hold with a live animal.
Narrative description of any corrective action taken in response to the incident:
Pet owner and cat were transported to a pet emergency hospital. Airport employees were disciplined and given additional training on proper loading requirements for live animals and dry ice.
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Type:Injury
Date/Time of Incident:May 20, 2005, approx. 8:00pm
Location:MSP
Routing:NW #1057 PIT-MSP
NW #321 MSP-LAX
Description of Animal:Dog; Mixed breed Pit Bull named “Noel”
Description of Incident:Dog escaped from its kennel while in transit by chewing a hole through the side of kennel. Animal and owner were transported to local Veterinarian in MSP. In addition to injury to toenail, the dog’s gums were visibly swollen and bleeding.
Cause of the Incident:
Dog injured itself while demonstrating a determined effort to escape its kennel.
Corrective Action Taken:
No corrective action taken. Kennel was of acceptable construction and condition at time of acceptance. Kennel door was secure.
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Cargo Incident Report #0505-1
Type:Loss
Date of Incident:May 4, 2005 – approx 1230 am
Location:LAX
Routing:NW 300 LAX-MSP
NW 454 MSP-JAN
AWB:012 LAX 36263010
Description of Animal:
Cat, named “Simbi”
Description of Incident:
The cat escaped from its kennel while being transferred from the cargo warehouse to the passenger terminal.
Cause of the Incident:Poor kennel design. Insufficient locking mechanisms on the kennel caused the door to inadvertently open during normal handling. The kennel was not damaged in this incident.
Corrective Action Taken:NW sent a letter to the kennel manufacturer asking that the double-latch “vault” door found on some of its kennels be incorporated on all kennels throughout its product line.
Don’t let your beloved pet become another Pet Airline Incident. Watch our videos and learn how to prepare your pet travel kennel like a Professional Pet Shipper!
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REPORT ON INCIDENTS INVOLVING ANIMALS DURING AIR TRANSPORT
Frontier Airlines
Period: October 1 – 31, 2006
One incident to report as follows:
Carrier/Flt Number: Frontier Airlines #505
Date/Time of incident: 10/19/06 flt arrived 11:00 a.m.
10/23/06 passenger reported injury
Description of Animal: 7 month old Doberman Pinscher
Description of incident: Passenger reported injury 4 days after flight arrival.
Passenger said
dog was wet, shivering after flight and vet had diagnosed hypothermia;passenger has not returned phoneinquiries regarding dog’s current condition
Description of cause: Cause unknown; cargo bin temperatures were set correctly, according
to flight captain; outside temperature within acceptable range
Description of Corrective Action: None to date
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AMERICAN AIRLINES / NOVEMBER 2005
DOT PET INCIDENT REPORT
Carrier and Flight NumberAmerican Eagle Flight 3597
Date and Time of the Incident8 NOV 8:40 pm EST
Description of the Animal, Including Name
Cat named Sweet Pea
Narrative Description of Incident
Cat escaped after unloaded from cart off AE Flight 3597 (DFW-CMH).
Narrative Description of Cause of the Incident
Ground handler lifted the kennel from baggage cart, hardware came apart, kennel door fell to the ground, and the cat escaped. Passenger advised airport personnel not to attempt recapture as the cat was wild and had previously injured the owner. Animal Control was called but unable to catch the cat.
Narrative Description of any Corrective Action Taken in Response to Incident
None, kennel had loose screws and quick recapture was not advised.
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Period: May 1 – 31, 2005
REDACTED
on behalf of Continental Airlines, Inc.
P.O. Box 4607, HQSMZ
1600 Smith Street
Houston, Texas 77210
June 15, 2005
TOTAL ANIMALS SHIPPED DURING REPORTING PERIOD: 6,372
TOTAL REPORTABLE INCIDENTS DURING PERIOD: 3
% OF REPORTABLE INCIDENTS TO ANIMALS HANDLED: 0.047%
Incident #1:
CO (no flight involved)
May 13, 2005 Approx 9:00AM Feline – Cat / Domestic Medium Hair
Female / 5.5yrs Name: Buffy
Owner/Guardian:
REDACTED
Narrative Description:
Description of the Incident:The cat escaped from its kennel while being transported to the aircraft, was injured and subsequently was treated and recovered.
Description of the Cause of the Incident: It appears that the cat was able to open its kennel door and escape during transport. During the escape, the cat inflicted injury upon itself by scraping its mouth on the kennel. Medical treatment was sought immediately for the animal, at Continental’s expense, and after recovering from its injury, this animal was moved safely to its final destination and all transportation charges were waived.
Description of any corrective action taken:
Continental’s policy already requires cable ties for the kennel door to prevent escapes and Continental intends to continue and reinforce this policy.
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Submitted by United Airlines
Reporting Period: August 1, 2006 – August 31, 2006
Total submitted incidents – 2
September 15, 2006
INCIDENT 1:
United Flight: 211 Boston/Denver
August 25, 2006: 12:00 PM
Narrative Description:
Description of incident:
Passenger checked kennel containing a large cat. Aircraft arrived and cat offloaded from UA 211 in Denver to be transferred to UA flight 43 Denver/Honolulu. Cat escaped kennel during ramp transfer in Denver. Ramp serviceman verified animal in kennel when offloaded from Flight 211.
Description of cause of the incident:
The kennel was inspected and the door was found ajar. One locking post was found outside its socket and the second locking post was broken off which made kennel door unsecured. It was not determined if the second locking post was broken prior to flight or how the second locking post became ajar. The airworthiness of the kennel is in question.
Description of any corrective action taken:
No corrective action was taken or warranted as United procedures were followed.
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Delta Air Lines
Live Animal Incident Report – REDACTED
Reporting Period: December 1 – December 31, 2005
Carrier
Delta Air Lines
Flight Number Flight # DL810 PIT-ATL
Date and Time of Incident December 8, 2005 – approximately 1930
Type of Incident Escape
Description of Animal
Cat – “Morehouse”
Description of the Incident The kennel containing the cat was removed from the aircraft and placed inside a conveyance. The cat escaped while being transferred from the ramp to the cargo warehouse.
Cause of the Incident
Poor kennel design. Insufficient locking mechanisms on the kennel caused the door to inadvertently open during normal handling. There were no visible signs of damage to this kennel.
Corrective Action Taken
Local station worked with Airport Police, Fire Department and other Air Carriers at the airport in the search for this cat. A flyer has been distributed and posted including local veterinarians/kennels. Routine contact with owner is ongoing. In addition, communication was issued system-wide to review acceptance and handling
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Incident #2:
CO flight #159 DCA-IAH
June 29, 2005 Approx. 9:35pm CST Dog – Chow/Lab mix
Female / 3 years old /
Description of the Incident:
During flight from Washington, DC to Houston, this dog was able to bend the post of the kennel and she forced her way out of the kennel and was loose in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Upon arrival into Houston, the bin door was opened. The dog jumped from the plane, and seriously injured a Continental employee and began to run loose on the tarmac for approximately 1hour. Animal was transported to an emergency clinic where it died the next morning at 0530 from what the veterinarian diagnosed as heat exhaustion.
Description of the Cause of the Incident: Animal was able to escape the kennel and upon arrival at Houston, it ran loose for more than an hour.
Description of any corrective action taken:
Necropsy performed along with Rabies tests (due to it biting the agent). Results still pending. Continental’s policy already requires cable ties for the kennel door to prevent escapes and Continental intends to continue and reinforce this policy.
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HAWAIIAN AIRLINES
ANIMAL INCIDENT REPORT
Date: 15Nov06 Time: 3:30 p.m.
Reporting Station: LAX
Flight: HA 10
From: HNL
To: LAX
Animal Information:
Description: Black cat, white paws
Incident: Upon arrival, the ramp agents opened up the aft bulk. After the doors were opened, the cat jumped out and started running toward the terminal. Ramp agents tried to catch the cat but were unsuccessful.
Cause: Unknown
Corrective action: We contacted Centinella Pet Feed and Supply to obtain traps. We will lay the traps tonight in hopes of finding the cat. We are investigating possible causes of the incident.
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Carrier: Alaska Airlines
Flight: 129
Date of incident: 5/23/2005
Time of incident: approximately 9:00pm
Description of animal (including name): Domestic short hair cat named Tippy
Identification of the owner(s) and/or guardian of the animal:
Redacted
Narrative description of incident:
Cat was being transferred from a Phoenix through Seattle to Anchorage. Cat escaped from its kennel in Phoenix. It was caught and placed back in its kennel after reinforcing the kennel. While in holding area in Seattle, the cat escaped again.
Narrative description of the cause of the incident:
Cat was placed in an insufficient kennel and it escaped.
Narrative description of any corrective action taken in response to the incident:
Local station management worked with the Port of Seattle by setting traps to catch the cat. Attempted for approximately 2 weeks, but were unsuccessful. Reminder sent out to all stations clarifying what makes a kennel secure for transport.
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Submitted by United Airlines
Reporting Period: April 1, 2006 – April 30, 2006
Total submitted incidents – 1
Reporting Date: May 10, 2006
INCIDENT:
United Flight: 432
April 24, 2006: 1:00 PM Age: Name: Ginxie
Narrative Description:
Description of incident: Passenger checked a cat in a kennel on Flight 432 from Chicago (ORD) to Charlotte (CLT). The kennel after going through the normal security checks, was boarded on a tractor cart to be transported from the bag holding area to the departure gate. The kennel door appeared to be locked when it was checked by passenger so we are unclear how the cat got out of the kennel while enroute to the aircraft. The cat jumped from the cart and was struck by a tractor traveling in the opposite direction. The kennel was in good shape with no evidence of damage. All procedures had been met.
Description of cause of the incident:
Same as above.
Description of any corrective action taken:
No corrective action was taken or warranted as United procedures were followed.
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During Air Transport
US Airways, Inc.
September 15, 2005
Incident #1
Carrier and Flight Number: US Airways Flight # US28 SEA-CLT
Date and Time of Incident: August 30, 2005, between 11:15am (local, Seattle, WA) and 8:00pm (local, Charlotte, NC)
Description of the Animal:Cat – “Tommy”
Identification of the Owner(s) and/or Guardian(s) of the Animal:
Narrative Description of the Incident:
Ms. [redacted] checked two cats in one kennel on flight 72, scheduled to operate from Seattle to Philadelphia. The cargo vendor at Seattle failed to load the cat onto the flight on which it was scheduled, and it instead rode on flight 28 to Charlotte, where it was to connect into Philadelphia. On arrival into Charlotte, as the aircraft cargo was being unloaded, the kennel fell apart and “Tommy” ran away.
Narrative Description of the Cause of the Incident:
There are two events at play: the failure to load the cats onto the correct flight and the eventual escape of the cat on arrival into Charlotte. The cause of the latter cannot be fully determined, although there are some contributing factors:
The kennel was not of adequate design. Instead of being constructed as one rigid unit, it was a “snap-together” unit that could be disassembled.
Ms. [redacted] checked large two cats in one kennel. Our staff in Seattle was not made aware that two cats were in the kennel, nor did they check. Our policy is to accept only one animal per kennel.
The ground handling vendor at Seattle, FSS, was interviewed and its personnel deny any mishandling of the kennel that might have contributed to its coming apart. Security personnel at Huntleigh assert the animals were cleared in a timely manner. FSS staff indicate the location in which kennels are placed for departing flights was checked 15 minutes before the departure of US72, and the cats were not present.
The ground handling staff at Charlotte were interviewed and deny any mishandling of the kennel that might have contributed to its coming apart.
Narrative Description of any Corrective Action Taken in Response to the Incident:
The ground handling vendor and security staff at Seattle have been counseled on picking up cargo in a timely manner. It appears inadequate kennel design ultimately caused this event and it does not appear the fact that the cat missed its scheduled flight had anything to do with it ultimately becoming lost.