Pet Deaths on Major Airlines Raise Questions About Travel Safety Protocols

Three dogs died during air travel in July 2024, with incidents occurring on Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines flights. The cases highlight varying levels of incident documentation and response protocols among carriers.

Hawaiian Airlines Details French Bulldog Death

The most detailed report emerged from Hawaiian Airlines regarding a French Bulldog named Panda, who died on July 22 following Flight 386 from Honolulu to Kahului, Maui. According to the airline's documentation, cargo staff noticed the dog was "breathing heavily" upon arrival, though they initially assessed it wasn't in distress. The recipient, a former veterinary worker, observed concerning symptoms during pickup, including overheating and excessive salivation. Despite immediate attempts to cool the animal, Panda was pronounced dead at a local veterinary clinic.

In response, Hawaiian Airlines is reviewing its policies regarding brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds, which are known to face higher risks during air travel due to their respiratory characteristics. The carrier is considering prohibiting these breeds on all flights.

Alaska Airlines Reports Two Incidents

Earlier in July, Alaska Airlines reported two separate incidents, though with notably less detailed documentation:

• July 16: A six-year-old Havanese was found deceased inside its kennel at Tampa International Airport after arriving on Flight 360
• July 10: A ramp agent discovered an eight-year-old Chihuahua mix had died in Seattle while en route from Honolulu to Tampa

Alaska Airlines' reports did not indicate any immediate policy reviews or corrective actions for either incident.

Varying Approaches to Documentation

The discrepancy in reporting detail and follow-up actions between the carriers underscores the varying approaches to pet incident documentation in the airline industry. While Hawaiian Airlines provided extensive documentation of the timeline, staff responses, and potential policy changes, Alaska Airlines' reports were significantly more concise.

None of the incidents have resulted in completed postmortem examinations, leaving the exact causes of death undetermined in all three cases.