While the idea of falcons aboard a plane might conjure up images of a bad action film along the lines of Snakes on a Plane, it turns out the exotic birds will soon be allowed to fly inside the passenger cabin. The German carrier Lufthansa announced this week that beginning in mid-2015, falcons will be permitted in the cabin in specially designed “Falcon Master” trays.
The new animal upgrade is designed to attract more business from the Middle East – where falcons are considered prized possessions by the cultural elite.
The special trays – which Lufthansa said were developed in close cooperation with falconry experts from the Middle East – will allow the birds to ride in the aircraft sitting on the dedicated bird stand connected to standard seat tracks.
“The Falcon Master ensures maximum hygienic protection of the cabin walls, seats and carpets from soiling by the birds,” Lufthansa said.
Falcons are already allowed on several Middle East-based airlines including Etihad and Emirates.
But most U.S.-based airlines only allow small domesticated cats or dogs to travel with their owners in the cabin, provided they remain in carriers under the seat and comply with the weight requirements. American Airline,s United and Spirit also allow domestic birds, but not poultry or birds of prey.
Falconry is the art of hunting wild prey with trained falcons and hawks – a sport that has flourished in the Middle East and Asia for centuries.
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