Etihad Cargo Undertakes Complex Logistics Operation: Flying Kangaroos from Israel to Moscow

An exceptional and complex logistics operation took place this week, as 20 kangaroos were flown from Israel to a zoo in Moscow via Etihad Cargo, in a process that was planned and prepared over half a year. This is one of the most complex animal transport operations recently seen, especially to a sensitive and challenging destination like Russia.

The kangaroos, originating from the Guru Park in the Beit Shean Valley, were transferred as part of a donation to the Moscow zoo, due to an excess of animals at the site. Beyond the ethical aspect, this is one of the most complex logistics projects in the industry: transporting live animals, especially to a destination that is not considered simple from a regulatory perspective, requires compliance with stringent health and animal welfare standards, export and import approvals, veterinary supervision, and international coordination.

According to those involved in the project, work on it began about six months ago and included dealing with complex veterinary approvals, regulatory adjustments with the authorities in Russia, and close coordination among all the parties in the chain.

The flight was carried out via Etihad Cargo, marketed in Israel by ACI, managed by Moti Arbel, and represented by Rom Top Aviation. The flight route included departure from Israel to Abu Dhabi, a stay of about 6 hours, where the kangaroos were quarantined, and then a flight to Moscow, with the total journey lasting about 16-17 hours.

Moti Arbel, CEO of ACI, told PORT2PORT: 'This is a project we have been working on for half a year. Transporting live animals, and especially to Moscow, is a not simple logistical and regulatory challenge. There were quite a few delays along the way: veterinarians, approvals, coordination with the authorities, but in the end, thanks to close work with the shipper, Etihad Cargo and the customs agent Bibas, we managed to deliver the shipment safely and orderly.'

Arbel added that this is not the first time Etihad Cargo has carried out a complex transport of animals, having successfully flown six zebras from Israel to India in the past. 'Air transport of live animals requires high professional skill and advanced operational capabilities, and Etihad Cargo is among a select group of global airlines ranked at the highest level in this field.'

Arbel also noted that the exceptional weather conditions yesterday morning added complexity to the project. 'We arrived at the terminal at 09:00, and the departure was only at 14:00. The weather, along with the stringent requirements for live animals, required a particularly meticulous checklist. The shipper sent a representative to the zoo to supervise the loading and escort, and only after all the requirements were met, we got the green light.'

The shipment was flown on a wide-body aircraft, suitable for transporting live animals, while maintaining welfare conditions, ventilation, and operational quiet. In Abu Dhabi, the kangaroos underwent an intermediate process according to protocol, and then continued on their way to Moscow.

Moti Arbel noted that the project demonstrates the capabilities of advanced air shipping even for non-routine shipments, and the importance of long-term planning, multi-system work and cooperation between ground parties, the airline, the customs agent and regulatory authorities - especially when it comes to live animals and challenging destinations.