Cathay Cargo has transported about 60 elite showjumping horses from Liege, Belgium to Hong Kong aboard a chartered Boeing 747 freighter for the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show, reported London's Air Cargo Week.

The operation was managed by Cathay Cargo's specialist live animal teams using IATA-compliant travel stalls, optimised flight paths and CEIV Live Animals-certified processes. Priority ground handling and in-flight monitoring by trained crew and professional grooms ensured the horses arrived calm and competition-ready.

The 12-hour journey from Liege to Hong Kong highlighted Cathay Cargo's growing expertise in high-stakes live animal logistics. Dominic Perret, Cathay Director Cargo, said transporting equine athletes is a privilege and responsibility, adding the airline's role is to eliminate travel stress for riders and owners.

Demand for live animal cargo is rising globally. Cathay Cargo's Live Animal solution focuses on creature comfort, optimised routing and welfare standards under IATA CEIV certification. Horses benefit from slow-speed tarmac transfers, temperature-controlled cargo holds and professional grooms accompanying them throughout the flight.

Jo Peck, event director at HPower International, said Cathay Cargo provides assurance and peace of mind for organisers and riders, combining meticulous care with disciplined cargo operations. Cathay Cargo is the first carrier in Asia to achieve IATA's CEIV Live Animals certification, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for world-class equine events.