10,000 flying mammals in five years
Brussels airport is marking five years of its 'Animal Care and Inspection Centre' (Acic), Europe’s first air cargo hub fully aligned with EU animal welfare standards.
Since it opened in 2020, nearly 10,000 mammals – including over 5,500 dogs, 1,600 horses and 800 cats – have passed through the centre, as have some more exotic species, including reptiles, birds, fish and even insects.
The 2,000 m² facility includes mobile stables, species-specific rest areas, a lawn, a refrigerated insect room, and a veterinary lab. Acic is Iata CEIV Live Animals certified and features climate control systems tailored to each species. It also hosts a border inspection post operated by Belgium’s food safety authority.
Highlights have included the handling of pandas, hammerhead sharks and golden monkeys. As part of Brussels airport’s cargo portfolio, Acic strengthens its role as a hub for live animal logistics in Europe. The centre is operated with Dnata and cooperates with Pairi Daiza Zoo. (ah)