Report Details

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 procedures.