QA Cargo transports horses for FEI World Cup Finals

Fifty of the finest European horses were treated with exceptional care and attention by Qatar Airways Cargo as they were transported to Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Nebraska, for the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping and FEI World Cup Dressage Finals, which began yesterday.
Qatar Airways Cargo ensured the safety and comfort of the horses throughout their journey from Amsterdam to Omaha on a Boeing 777 freighter for the five-day event, the airline announced in a statement.
Each horse stall on the freighter was loaded with two horses, with a total of 11 grooms accompanying the equine guests. The freighter also carried 20 tonnes of equine equipment. On board the aircraft, an ambient temperature of 12 – 15C in the cargo bay during the flight ensured a comfortable journey for the horses. The cargo carrier will also fly the horses back to Amsterdam after the FEI World Cup Finals.
Ulrich Ogiermann, chief officer cargo, at Qatar Airways, described the mission as another successful equine charter. “We place great emphasis on care and safety in live animal transportation, particularly horses which require specialist service and well-trained staff. We offer personalised solutions, high quality operations and an excellent record of on-time delivery, making us the premier carrier of live animals.”
Edwin Hofstede, director at ECS Livestock B V, the cargo carrier’s customer, said, “The successful charter is testament to Qatar Airways Cargo’s wealth of experience in transporting star-performing horses around the world.”
Qatar Airways Cargo has seen a recent upsurge in the transportation of live animals, especially horses. In 2016-17, the cargo carrier transported over 2,300 horses, a 10% increase over 2015-16.
Qatar Airways Cargo transports a variety of animals in accordance with International Air Transport Association Live Animal Regulations. Horses are transported primarily between the Middle East and Europe, and between Europe and the US.
The cargo carrier will receive another Boeing 777 freighter later this year, increasing its freighter fleet to a total of 22 aircraft by the end of 2017. Qatar Airways Cargo was also awarded the Global Cargo Airline of the Year award at one of the leading air freight industry exhibitions, Air Cargo Africa in February this year.