Intradco Global, in conjunction with Etihad Cargo, transported 75 thoroughbred horses from Shannon Airport (SNN), Ireland to Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG), China, onboard an Etihad B777-200F aircraft.

Ongoing COVID-19 restrictions in China create various travel challenges for both humans and animals entering the country. It was critical for Intradco Global to provide an aircraft, stalls and flying grooms for this charter, and this meant finding a carrier who could work with them to circumvent the obstacles presented by the pandemic.

Where others were unable to help, Etihad Cargo stepped forward. By closely collaborating with them, Intradco Global transported the horses to China successfully for the client, BBA Ireland.

The charter took advantage of Etihad Cargo’s SkyStables, which guarantees a comfortable and safe journey for horses and peace of mind for all involved. As well as the horses travelling in 25 specialist air stalls, both British and Chinese grooms were onboard, with an on-call vet available 24/7 throughout the operation.

Arun Nair, Product Manager SkyStables and LiveAnimals at Etihad Cargo, said, “Etihad Cargo was honored to be selected as the air cargo partner of choice to transport the horses for Intradco Global. Through SkyStables IATA CEIV Live Animals certification, Etihad Cargo guarantees the safe and comfortable journey for the horses.”

Sara Havers, Equine Cargo Account Manager at Intradco Global, said, “Restrictions pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic combined with the task of transporting 75 horses in one charter made this a challenging operation. However, our attention to detail and our long experience in flying horses, combined with our teamwork with Etihad Cargo made this transport a success. The arrival of these thoroughbred horses in China will help develop the quality of their market, and we are delighted to have further enhanced an already strong working relationship with the client”.

Intradco Global have previously coordinated some of the largest international movements of horses around the globe, including Europe’s largest horse charter of 86 thoroughbreds. They have been at the forefront of the world’s most prestigious equine events, chartering flights that transported winners of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Breeders’ Cup and the Dubai World Cup.