Because of restrictions on the number of birds he could fly with, a Saudi prince boarded 80 of his own birds onto a commercial flight, each in its own seat. The few spaces not taken by a bird were occupied by humans, one of whom snapped the scene and posted it on social media.
According to its boarding policies, Qatar Airways allows a maximum of six falcons on board per plane (one falcon in the Economy Class cabin of an aircraft, and a maximum of six falcons are permitted within the Economy Class cabin of any one aircraft), and Etihad Airways allows falcons in the main cabin or as checked baggage. The falcon is the national bird of the UAE, which may explain why several Gulf airlines are equipped to transport them.
Falcons who fly must be issued an animal passport, valid for three years, for air travel in the UAE in order to protect them from smugglers, which is a serious problem in the Middle East. No photo is required (say cheese? can a bird smile), but the birds must be fitted with a leg ring with an ID number corresponding to its passport.
It’s not readily apparent which airline transported the birds, but several Gulf state carriers do allow falcons in their cabins as a concession to their two-legged passengers who are passionate about falconry, a popular sport among the the privileged class in the Middle East.
Seasoned falconers commonly train multiple birds at once, much like nurturing a stable of fine race horses. The birds travel with their owners for racing and hunting events.
Falcons with passports
In 2013, Gulf News reported that over 28,000 falcons had received passports since 2002 as part of an effort to combat the illegal trade of the birds. Travel is restricted to nine nations: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates, and Syria. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are hubs for the ancient and gentlemanly sport.
Checklist for flying with falcons
- No first class flights
- Tied with chord or chain
- Valid health certificate
- Wearing hood
- Falcon passport
We already known that Qatar Airways permits up to six birds on board. Etihad and Emirates allow birds on board, as does Royal Jordanian on limited occasions, provided they sit in economy class, be secured to their seat with a cord or chain, and carry valid health certificates.
In every instance, each bird must be hooded, and carry a pet passport. The airlines provide protective covers for the seat upholstery. In every instance, these airlines allow more falcons in their cabins than they do dogs or cats.
Though 80 birds on one plane is unusual, the human travellers appear nonplussed. Modern day flying really is for the birds.
