Report Details

Carrier: Alaska Airlines Flight Number: 894 Date & Time of Incident: 02/21/2017 12:00 AM Type of Incident: Loss Description of Animal: Breed: Other Animal Name: Gaige Description of Incident: During ground transfer from the air cargo acceptance facility to the aircraft for loading, a cat was able to escape its kennel and out of the enclosed cart, while on the AOA at the Honolulu Int’l Airport. The Agent driving the cart with the animal noticed the empty kennel with front door ajar once planeside after opening the cart’s curtains. The Agent immediately contacted his supervisor, coordinating with local airport Wildlife and Animal Quarantine representatives to assist in the search and utilize traps to secure the cat. The shipper was contacted immediately to inform of the escape and to return to assist in the search. To this point, the cat has not been located. Cause of Incident: After a full investigation of cargo acceptance records, employee interviews, kennel condition, and handling procedures, we are currently unable to determine the root cause of the escape. Primary animal enclosure standards were met and additional company-directed security measures were applied (releasable zip-ties) at time of acceptance. Corrective Action Taken: While no direct corrective action was determined, our team in Honolulu has committed to reinforcing existing company and regulatory policies regarding the acceptance of live animals for air transport.