Live Animal Transports

Phoenix Air’s cargo-door Gulfstream jets have been used by some of the world’s top aquariums and zoos to transport a variety of animal species for breeding programs and the protection of endangered species.

Many aquariums around the world periodically relocate dolphins as part of carefully managed breeding programs. Phoenix Air has developed a specialized transport system capable of carrying up to two live dolphins in water baths with open tops, allowing veterinarians and handlers to touch and communicate with the animals throughout the flight. This hands-on care helps keep the dolphins calm, especially during long transoceanic flights—such as between Hawaii and the U.S. East Coast. Additionally, cabin temperature can be precisely controlled to ensure the animals’ comfort.

Phoenix Air has also transported endangered penguins from New Zealand to the U.S., maintaining the cabin temperature at 36°F for their well-being. While this climate is ideal for the penguins, it presents a unique challenge for the onboard attendants, who endure near-freezing conditions to monitor the animals throughout these long-haul flights.

Beyond conservation efforts, Phoenix Air jets have transported trained wolves from Canada to Siberia, Russia, for roles in a popular motion picture trilogy. The company has also conducted numerous rescue flights, relocating abandoned dogs and cats from Puerto Rico and other Caribbean locations to the U.S. Northeast for adoption. These special missions provide a fresh start for 50 to 60 rescue animals on each flight, traveling aboard their own private Gulfstream jet—a cause Phoenix Air is proud to support.

Commitment to Ethical Animal Transport

Phoenix Air has a strict policy against transporting laboratory animals for research purposes. Every live animal transport request is thoroughly vetted to ensure it aligns with the best interests of the animals and is conducted in partnership with accredited aquariums, zoos, and animal rescue organizations.

For more on Phoenix Air’s live animal transports, including missions transporting stray dogs from Puerto Rico to the Hamptons for adoption, see coverage in Wall Street Journal and Newsday articles.