United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
Fur flies as giant rabbit dies on United flight
Saturday, 26 Apr, 2017
0
United Airlines could be in for more trouble after a valuable giant rabbit, which was set to become the biggest in the world, mysteriously died during a transatlantic flight from Heathrow.
The Continental giant rabbit, named Simon, was sent from the UK by breeder Annette Edwards after being sold to a ‘very famous’ celebrity customer but was discovered dead on arrival in Chicago.
Ten month old Simon already measures three feet long and was expected to surpass the size of his father Darius, who is the Guinness Record holder, as the world’s biggest bunny at more than four feet.
"Simon had a vet’s check-up three hours before the flight and was fit as a fiddle," Edwards told the Sun newspaper.
"Something very strange has happened and I want to know what. I’ve sent rabbits all around the world and nothing like this has happened before."
"We were saddened to hear this news. The safety and wellbeing of all the animals that travel with us is of the utmost importance to United Airlines and our PetSafe team," United said in a statement.
"We have been in contact with our customer and have offered assistance. We are reviewing this matter."
Both breeder and the mystery buyer, who was described as ‘distraught’ at the death, are considering legal action against United.
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
Anna Marie Presutti on San Francisco’s Tourism Revival and Global Outlook
Exploring Brooklands Museum with Alex Patterson
Global Tourism Challenges and Upcoming Events: A Conversation with Don Welsh
Peebles Barbeque: A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
Exploring Bok Tower Gardens with Erica Smith
Rue’s Living Water Boat Cruises: Exploring Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes
Durango and Silverton Railroad: A Timeless Journey Through History and Scenic Beauty
Walt Leger on New Orleans’ Resilience and Major Events Ahead
Cindy Mackin Shares Estes Park’s Winter Thrills
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
Connecting Small Businesses to Global Tourism Markets: Nate Huff of Tourism Exchange
North Carolina’s Resilience: Wit Tuttell on Recovery and Tourism
CLIA expands trade support with expedition event
Qatar Airways adding Manchester flights
Jet2 unveils Samos as new Greek destination for summer 2026
EU entry-exit system delayed again
ATC strike in Greece could disrupt flights this week