The beluga whales were transported to their new home after a mission requiring meticulous planning and coordination to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the whales.
The war in Ukraine meant direct flights were not possible so the whales were transported to Moldova by land then they flew to Spain in an Ilyushin IL-76.
The airlines specialised team worked with animal care experts and vets to monitor the whales’ health and comfort throughout the flight.
Transportation involved a series of carefully planned steps including the use of specialised equipment and containers designed for a stable and smooth journey.
Silk Way Airlines worked with Oceangrafic and a group of international animal transporters specialising in marine mammals to ensure the mission was successful.
Mustafa Azimov, First Deputy Director of Silk Way Airlines says it was a complex mission which took three months to complete.
He says, “I would like to thank the entire rescue team engaged in this mission and especially the crew for their exceptional efforts during take-off, flight, and landing. They ensured the journey was smooth and stress-free for the animals, and delivered them safely to their new home.”