Magma Aviation, Intradco Global transport 34 horses to AlFursan Cup
The aviation and equine logistics firms partnered to ensure a seamless journey for elite horses competing in Saudi Arabia.
Magma Aviation and Intradco Global have successfully executed a high-profile equine air transport operation, moving 34 endurance horses from Liège, Belgium, to AlUla, Saudi Arabia, for the AlFursan Endurance Cup. The mission highlights the critical role of specialised air cargo logistics in transporting high-value live animals across international routes while maintaining strict welfare standards.
Transporting elite endurance horses requires a highly coordinated approach, ensuring compliance with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LAR). The horses were flown under carefully controlled conditions, with Intradco Global’s equine air charter expertise ensuring every stage of the journey met the highest standards. Equipped with custom-built stalls, the horses were accompanied by professional in-flight grooms who monitored ventilation, hydration, and overall comfort to minimise travel stress.
Peter Kerins, CEO of Magma Aviation, highlighted the complexity of such operations: “This mission exemplifies our ability to manage specialised cargo flights with precision. The collaboration with Intradco Global allowed us to execute an efficient and seamless transport operation, ensuring the horses arrived in peak condition and ready for competition.”
Equine air transport logistics demand thorough planning, beginning with pre-flight preparations such as selecting appropriate horse stalls, balancing aircraft load distribution, and ensuring compliance with veterinary regulations. Throughout the flight, Magma Aviation and Intradco Global worked closely with pilots and loadmasters to maintain stable environmental conditions, controlling factors like turbulence, airflow, and temperature to ensure the horses’ well-being.
Charlie McMullen, CEO of Intradco Global, emphasised the company’s commitment to safe and efficient equine transport: “The movement of elite racehorses requires precision and industry-leading expertise. Our partnership with Magma Aviation strengthens our ability to deliver top-tier logistics solutions, prioritising both efficiency and animal welfare.”
Magma Aviation, a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, continues to expand its footprint in the air cargo sector, enhancing its capabilities across key hubs, including Dubai and Dublin. With a growing demand for specialised cargo services, the company plays a crucial role in facilitating complex logistics operations for high-value shipments, including live animal transport, across global markets.
