IAG Cargo delivers world's largest dinosaur skeleton cast from Argentina to UK

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group, delivered one of the world's largest dinosaurs on a shipment from Buenos Aires to London Heathrow. The Patagotitan mayorum titanosaur is around the same size as a British Airways Airbus A320 aircraft or four double-decker buses.

The Natural History Museum confirmed IAG Cargo as its official exhibition logistics partner for Titanosaur: Life as the biggest dinosaur in November 2022. The magnificent titanosaur will be presented in Europe for the first time, now that it is on British soil.

The trip of the dinosaur began in Trelow, Argentina, from where the cast travelled to Buenos Aires before arriving in London. Patagotitan was dismantled at Trelow, Argentina, into more than 40 boxes to be shipped in the bellyhold of two British Airways B787-9 passenger planes. The unique cargo was carried to a special facility upon arrival at London Heathrow before being moved to the Natural History Museum, where it will be reassembled and ready for public exhibition in March.

IAG Cargo has many years of experience in transporting high-value, unique and precious consignments via its dedicated ‘Secure’ product, ensuring total peace of mind when it comes to moving cargo like the awe-inspiring titanosaur.

John Cheetham, Chief Commercial Officer, IAG Cargo commented, “It is a privilege to partner with the Natural History Museum as the custodian of some of the world’s most important scientific artefacts. I want to thank our teams in Argentina and the UK who made this colossal task of transporting a 37-metre dinosaur a reality.”

Alex Burch, Director of Public Programmes, Natural History Museum commented, “We’re pleased to have IAG Cargo as our exhibition logistics partner on this exhibition. As one of the largest dinosaurs to ever roam the Earth, it is so important that we are able to showcase this cast to the public, connecting our visitors with nature and inspiring them to care for the large animals we share the planet with today.”

Simon Boswell, Captain, British Airways said, “I and the entire team felt honoured and privileged to fly this unique artefact from Argentina to the UK, and it was really very special to have been able to carry this precious cargo on a British Airways’ aircraft. Working with our sister company IAG Cargo, we’re delighted to have been able to play our part in its safe onward journey.”