Pilot Study on Annual Horse Movements by Air and the Possible Effect of the Covid-19 Pandemic.

This research pilot study attempted to collect an understanding of the number of horses transported internationally by air each year, the routes they take, and their general purpose of air travel from 2018 to 2021. The study also aimed to determine whether the COVID-19 pandemic has had any impact on the international horse movements.

Research Methodology

• The primary data collection for this study was conducted via email communication with international shipping companies and various airlines.
• Out of the 15 international shipping companies (ISCs) contacted, the researchers were able to gather data from 7. These 7 ISCs reported an average of 10,401 horse movements annually, with the maximum and minimum number of movements varied widely amongst them.
• Out of the 8 airlines that the researchers reached out to, data was collected from 5. These airlines averaged about 10,656 horse movements each year. The airlines also provided information detailing the travel routes, most frequently between Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Australasia.

Key Findings

• The study found that the movement of horses by air was most frequent within Western and Northern Europe, the Middle East, Southern Africa, Australia, and North and South America.
• Interestingly, there was a decrease in horse movements in the year 2020 for all airlines but one, indicating a possible effect of the COVID-19 pandemic in reducing international horse travel.

Research Implications

• The outcome of this study suggested that there is a need for more rigorous scientific studies to better understand the number and journey characteristics of horses being transported by air.
• These additional studies would focus on determining the epidemiological and welfare risks unique to horses’ air travel. These results would be instrumental in developing and implementing best practices and objective regulations for the protection of the horses and the prevention of disease spread during their transport.