Martinair Cargo flies lions to a new life in South Africa

Martinair Cargo has transported two lions from the Netherlands to a sanctuary in South Africa utilising one of its Boeing 747 freighters.

The lions, Vasylyna and Nikola, were being transport from a sanctuary for big cats in the Netherlands to LionsRock in South Africa, an expansive 1250-hectare sanctuary managed by Four Paws.

The two big cats took off from Schiphol Airport on April 25 and were handled at the carrier’s animal hotel at the Dutch airport.

Mirjam Scherer, global head of specials logistics at Air France KLM Martinair Cargo, said: “At our animal hotel at Schiphol, we prioritise dedication to providing the best care for our animal passengers.

“We ensure the highest level of attention and care for every animal under our care, from the moment of arrival to departure. Our team of seasoned professionals is ready to deliver the best service and care, including special diets, administering medication, and, of course, plenty of love and attention.”

Lioness Vasylyna arrived at the big cat sanctuary on June 7 after being kept as a pet in Ukraine, where she managed to escape and wandered through the war-affected streets of a village near Kharkiv before being captured and taken to a temporary wildlife shelter in Ukraine.

Due to the wartime situation and lack of adequate care and space, she was swiftly relocated to the Netherlands.

Nikola’s journey began after being rescued from illegal private possession in Montenegro.

“The relocation of Vasylyna and Nikola to LionsRock means they finally have the opportunity to live in a large sanctuary, surrounded by other lions. While it’s saddening that they never had the chance to be released into the wild due to illegal trade, we are glad to offer them a more natural life here,” said Petra Sleven, director of Four Paws.