European Airline Faces Repeat Pet Transport Incidents: Missing Cats Spark Concerns

Incidents of Missing Cats on Aegean Airlines Flights

Three cats rescued by a newlywed couple from Crete went missing during an Aegean Airlines flight to Paris, as reported by The Guardian. The airline did not provide an explanation or apology regarding why the cats were left behind in the aircraft’s hold in Paris. This is the second occurrence of such an incident in two years on the Greek airline’s flights. Previously, a kitten was lost on a flight from Crete to Munich, Germany.

A Happy Resolution

Vet Bethany Mulcahy-Stephenson and her husband, Adam, rescued the cats in Crete and arranged for their transport to Paris. However, they were later informed that Aegean Airlines had misplaced the cats. While initially told the cats would return to Paris in two days, they were eventually rerouted via Athens in the cabin with a handler. Mulcahy-Stephenson expressed relief at their eventual safe recovery, although the cats were significantly stressed and required emergency veterinary care.

Aegean Airlines’ Response

The couple claimed Aegean Airlines neither apologized for the incident nor explained why the cats were not unloaded. Aegean Airlines stated that the cats were under crew supervision during the journey and received necessary care. Despite not unloading them immediately due to “operational reasons,” the airline confirmed they reunited the cats with the owners the same evening.

Previous Pet Incident

In a similar case, a kitten named Rodri went missing during a flight from Chania Airport in Crete to Munich. The pet carrier was damaged during a stopover in Athens, resulting in the kitten’s escape and subsequent disappearance.

Pet Travel Policies on Aegean Airlines

• Cats and dogs can travel in the cabin under specific conditions.
• Each passenger may bring one pet or two of the same species, provided their weight does not exceed 17.6 pounds (8 kg) including the carrier.
• Pets must be clean, healthy, non-aggressive, and well-behaved, with bookings required in advance.
• Window seats are recommended as passengers with pets cannot use exit row or bulkhead seats.

Aegean Airlines Information

Pet policies vary across airlines, with some only permitting pets in the aircraft’s hold.