NEW YORK — A remarkable incident unfolded in the skies when a cargo jet, en route to Belgium from New York, was forced to turn around after a horse broke free from its stall in the aircraft’s hold. The unusual situation occurred aboard a Boeing 747 operated by Air Atlanta Icelandic.
The flight, which had embarked on its transatlantic journey on November 9, faced an unexpected turn of events shortly after takeoff.
The pilot, in communication with air traffic control in Boston, reported that a horse onboard had escaped its confinement. “We don’t have a problem as of flying-wise but we need to return, return back to New York. We cannot get the horse back secured,” the pilot relayed, as recorded by LiveATC.net and compiled by You Can See ATC.
Following this report, air traffic controllers promptly authorized the aircraft’s return to John F. Kennedy International Airport. The decision underscores the safety protocols in aviation, prioritizing secure conditions for both the cargo and the crew. The incident highlights the unique challenges faced in air cargo transportation, particularly when it involves live animals.