Search and rescue dogs permitted to fly in the cabin on select easyJet flights
November 21, 2024
Low-cost carrier, easyJet, has partnered with Northern Ireland search and rescue dog charity, SARDA IN, to enable its highly-trained dogs to travel in the cabin on select flights for free.
The dogs are deployed on missions by various bodies in Northern Ireland, including the police, fire and rescue services, mountain rescue teams and the Gardai. The decision to allow the animals to travel in the cabin will help the reduce the stress and potential risks associated with their transportation by air. Ultimately, it will enable the dogs to be deployed quicker and more efficiently to disaster zones and critical incidents across Europe and Africa with easyJet’s network spanning more than 120 destinations from 21 UK airports.
“As a volunteer-based organisation and registered charity, SARDA IN deeply values the critical support provided by easyJet staff,” said Raph O’Connor, SARDA IN training officer. “Their offer of free flights enables our dedicated handlers and highly trained USAR dogs to be rapidly deployed to international disaster zones,” he continued.
The dogs, which have been trained in various specialist disciplines, are able to located high-risk and vulnerable missing people in diverse environments, such as mountains, open countryside, urban settings and disaster areas in the UK, Ireland and further afield.
