Swissport has opened a dedicated area for handling unaccompanied pets at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport in South Africa in a bid to improve animal welfare and transport operations.
The Pet Lounge for the import and export of unaccompanied pets is separate from Swissport's general air cargo warehouse and features a dedicated acceptance area for the checking of the animals and their travel documentation, complemented by two separate rooms for pets waiting for their flight, their owner, or a specialised animal handling agent.
Designed to offers a calm environment with water service, air conditioning and music to reduce stress, the lounge is managed by a dedicated team trained to handle animals.
Staff comply with the International Air Transport Association's Live Animals Regulations (IATA LAR) to ensure the highest level of care and safety.
Swissport also collaborates with the South African State Veterinary Service to conduct thorough checks on all imported and exported animals.
“The Swissport Pet Lounge sets a new benchmark in animal handling at an airport in South Africa, making the stay for our special travelers as relaxing as possible," said Khangi Khoza, chief executive of Swissport South Africa.
“The facility reflects our commitment to delivering services that benefit the animals and our customers from airlines and forwarders alike.”
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