Rescued Turtle Swept Away by Storm Receives VIP Flight Treatment
In an unusual and heartwarming case of animal care, a rescued loggerhead turtle has been flown in the passenger cabin of a commercial airliner. Regional airline Loganair confirmed it received special dispensation to carry the turtle, named Crush, on a flight from the Channel Islands to Southampton on Tuesday. This decision was made because a sea crossing was deemed too stressful for the recovering reptile.
Storm Goretti Leaves Turtle Stranded Far from Home
Crush was swept away from her natural habitat and washed up on a beach in Jersey during Storm Goretti in January. Loggerhead turtles typically inhabit much warmer waters and are rarely found on the Channel Islands, making this event particularly unusual. After being discovered by a member of the public in a weak and malnourished condition, she was immediately taken to a veterinary hospital on Jersey. There, she received round-the-clock treatment to nurse her back to health.
Airline Steps Up to Ensure a Calm Journey
For the next stage of her rehabilitation at Sea Life Weymouth aquarium in Dorset, it was decided that air travel would be the best option. Loganair stated, “It was decided that a ferry crossing would cause Crush undue stress and affect her recovery.” The airline’s chief commercial officer, Ronnie Matheson, added, “This was certainly one of the more unusual passengers we’ve welcomed on board, but supporting Crush’s journey was something we were very happy to do.” Mr Matheson emphasised that the airline worked closely with veterinary experts to ensure the turtle could travel as calmly and comfortably as possible, while also maintaining the safety of all passengers and crew.
The reptile was carried onto the flight in a secure box, highlighting the careful planning involved in this unique transport operation. This incident underscores the importance of animal welfare in rescue efforts and showcases how businesses can adapt to support conservation initiatives.
