Emirates SkyCargo expands efforts to combat wildlife trafficking

As the world prepares to observe World Wildlife Day, Emirates SkyCargo is reaffirming its unwavering commitment to combating the illegal wildlife trade. The cargo arm of Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, continues to play a pivotal role in disrupting the illicit trafficking of wildlife and its derivatives, ensuring biodiversity preservation for future generations.Emirates SkyCargo has long maintained a stringent zero-tolerance approach towards the illegal wildlife trade. The airline has implemented a complete ban on hunting trophies from the Big-4, even where legally permitted, and prohibits the transportation of illicit animal products, including shark fins, rhino horns, elephant tusks, and leopard skins. These demanding measures aim to ensure that Emirates SkyCargo’s operations do not facilitate the destruction of endangered species.

To strengthen enforcement, Emirates SkyCargo has developed comprehensive screening and verification protocols, conducting spot checks during transit and verifying the authenticity of permits. In a bid to share its expertise, the airline has supported Project Vikela, an initiative aimed at integrating automated detection systems for illegal wildlife products in airport security screenings across Africa—one of the regions most affected by wildlife trafficking.

Training and awareness initiatives
Frontline staff are an essential component in disrupting the illicit wildlife trade. Emirates SkyCargo has trained over 30,000 employees across its cargo and passenger operations, empowering them to identify and report suspicious cargo shipments. The airline has extended this training to contracted ground-handling staff worldwide, ensuring comprehensive vigilance across its logistics network.

Standing against the donkey skin trade
Emirates SkyCargo’s commitment to animal welfare extends beyond traditional wildlife trafficking. Following the African Union’s landmark decision to ban donkey slaughter in 2024, the airline immediately expanded its embargo to include donkey hides, protecting both animal welfare and the livelihoods of communities that rely on donkeys for daily sustenance. Collaborating with international animal welfare charity The Donkey Sanctuary, Emirates SkyCargo co-developed the Aviation Risk and Threat Assessment guide, equipping industry stakeholders with the necessary tools to detect and prevent the illegal donkey skin trade.

Supporting rescue missions and conservation efforts
Leveraging its expertise in live animal transportation, Emirates SkyCargo has supported numerous wildlife rescue missions. In 2024, the airline partnered with Animals Lebanon to transport Sara, a four-and-a-half-month-old lion cub, from an unsuitable domestic environment to a sanctuary in Cape Town, where she was given a second chance at life. The airline also plays a proactive role in strengthening international enforcement efforts. In close collaboration with Dubai Customs and Dubai Police, Emirates SkyCargo has successfully intercepted several illegal wildlife shipments, further disrupting global trafficking networks.

Industry-wide commitment and sustainability goals
Emirates SkyCargo’s dedication to sustainability extends across the entire Emirates Group. The airline was one of the founding signatories of the Buckingham Palace Declaration, which seeks to eliminate vulnerabilities in transportation that enable wildlife trafficking. Additionally, Emirates is an active participant in the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce and the United for Wildlife MENA Chapter, engaging in strategic discussions to counter wildlife smuggling through logistics channels.

The airline also harnesses its global influence to raise awareness. Emirates famously adorned four of its A380 aircraft with liveries showcasing endangered species, spreading the message through 6,000 flights across 48 cities in 29 countries. This initiative has since evolved into a permanent installation at London Heathrow, ensuring continuous awareness of wildlife conservation.

Additionally, Emirates collaborates with United for Wildlife to educate travelers through its in-flight experience. Economy and Premium Economy passengers receive amenity kits featuring images of critically endangered species, such as the green sea turtle, African elephant, and pangolin. Since the initiative’s launch in 2023, Emirates has distributed 9.8 million kits, inspiring passengers to join the fight against illegal wildlife trade.

As Emirates SkyCargo continues its efforts to combat wildlife trafficking, the airline remains a leading example of how the air cargo industry can play a crucial role in global conservation and sustainability. Through stringent enforcement, industry collaboration, and awareness-building initiatives, Emirates SkyCargo is helping to ensure a future where wildlife remains in its natural habitat, free from the threat of exploitation.