LAN CARGO, the main air cargo operator in Latin America, has long been known for transporting giraffes, rhinos and lions and all types of wild animals.
But this time they had an even "heavier" chore: shuttle nine elephants on a Boeing 777 between Namibia and Mexico City to their new home in Puebla, the African Safari Park.
"This operation is the largest animal rescue undertaken in South America and the largest African elephant shipment LAN CARGO has made in its 80-year history," according to a press release.
Just like human passengers, the elephants traveled while awake and were accompanied throughout the trip by veterinarians who cared for them before, during and after the flight.
LAN CARGO has also carried wallabies, dolphins, gazelles, and deer; and others, such as pets (dogs and cats), bees, elephants and horses (of which it has transported up to 45 in a single flight).
By David Wilkening
