Hong Kong Airlines has responded to the backlash surrounding its transportation of five dolphins from Japan to Vietnam.
Reports from Hong Kong indicate the airline has agreed to halt the transfer of live dolphins and will donate an undisclosed amount to an animal charity.
An online petition urging the airline to stop hauling dolphins surfaced last week.
The petition followed a Hong Kong Airlines’ internal email detailing the profitability of the carrier’s dolphin route leaked in the Chinese press.
Hong Kong Airlines has expressed its unfamiliarity with dolphin transport.
“As a member of the transport industry, the airline was totally unaware of the complexities behind this shipment of five dolphins,” said a statement posted on the carrier’s website.
No dolphins were harmed during the flight, according to Hong Kong Airlines.
