In a groundbreaking development, Cochin International Airport (CIAL) has become the first airport in Kerala to facilitate the overseas travel of pets. This historic moment was marked by the departure of a Lhasa Apso pet named Luka from Kochi on Thursday, accompanied by owners Rajesh Susheelan and Kavitha Rajesh from Attingal.
Luka’s Trailblazing Journey
Luka, the little Lhasa Apso, made history by flying internationally with CIAL cargo. The pet’s journey from Cochin to Dubai via Doha with Qatar Airways highlights a significant turning point for pet owners in the region. Previously, pet owners faced the difficult decision of leaving their cherished companions behind when moving abroad. Now, numerous pet owners have expressed relief and happiness over CIAL’s approval to travel with their pets to foreign countries.
A Brighter Future for International Pet Travel from Kochi
CIAL has released a press statement outlining the extensive services provided to support this pet travel initiative. These services include a special cargo area, a 24-hour air-conditioned pet station, 24-hour veterinary care, a customs clearance center, and a facilitation center to assist with pet export procedures.
Expanding Horizons for Pet Travel
The expanded authorization allows pets to be transported as cargo to any foreign country in specially prepared cages. This significant improvement opens new opportunities for pet owners to travel abroad with their pets. Additionally, there are plans to obtain authorization for the direct import of pets from overseas, enhancing the pet travel experience at CIAL.
Ensuring Safe Entry and Efficient Cargo Operations
Efforts are already underway to set up a special animal quarantine center, which will guarantee the smooth and safe entry of pets into the nation. Apart from its pet export facility, CIAL manages the import and export of fruits and plants with a fully functional plant quarantine center near the cargo section. These comprehensive services underscore CIAL’s commitment to efficient and safe cargo operations.
