PRESS ESC TO CLOSE
 

Plane Gets Diverted to Save Dog

Share
A man holding a french bulldog at an diverted airport.

A 7-year-old Boston terrier has a pilot to thank for saving his life.

Named Simba, the dog was put in the cargo area of an Air Canada airplane during a flight from Tel Aviv to Toronto, while his owner, German Kontorovich, sat in the cabin with other passengers.

Just as the plane was beginning to fly over the frigid Atlantic Ocean the temperature-control system in the cargo malfunctioned, resulting in temperatures plummeting.

Related: Here is How to Ensure Your Dog Gets Into a Foreign Country

The pilot noticed his canine passenger may be in danger and acted quickly. Instead of continuing to fly to the final destination, he changed route to land in Frankfurt, Germany. The dog was then transferred to a new plane and was reunited with his owner in Toronto.

While this move could cost the airline an additional $10,000 in fuel, according to aviation expert Phyl Durby, it was the right thing to do.

“The captain is responsible for all lives on board, whether it’s human or K-9” Durby told CNN affiliate City News.

Related: Delta Debuts Its Pet-Tracker Device

By Andrea Huspeni

Andrea Huspeni is the founder and CEO of This Dog's Life. Her mission it to help dogs live a happier, healthier and longer life. When she isn't working, she spends time with her two dogs, Lola and Milo. She resides in Brooklyn, NY.

All You Need

Shop now
Loading component ...
What My Dog, My Zen Master, Taught Me About Life After My Mom's Passing

What My Dog, My Zen Master, Taught Me About Life After My Mom's Passing

Some of the Most Popular Valentine’s Day Flowers are Toxic to Dogs. Do you Know Which Ones to Avoid?

Some of the Most Popular Valentine’s Day Flowers are Toxic to Dogs. Do you Know Which Ones to Avoid?

What’s Going on With Your Senior Dog: Is it Behavioral or Medical?

What’s Going on With Your Senior Dog: Is it Behavioral or Medical?

The 6 Winter Skin Miracles Your Dog Needs

The 6 Winter Skin Miracles Your Dog Needs