In the ever-evolving world of aviation, passengers come in all shapes, sizes… and species. In a story that has truly taken off, an Emirati traveller recently boarded an Etihad Airways flight from Abu Dhabi to Morocco with a most majestic companion perched calmly on his arm — a regal falcon, travelling not just with style but with its own passport.
Yes, you read that right. This high-flying bird of prey had its very own government-issued passport — complete with photo ID, travel history and a record of its Spanish origins. The video of the pair at the airport went viral faster than a boarding gate dash, with social media users stunned by the falcon’s frequent flyer status and dignified demeanour.
But as outlandish as it sounds to most of us, this is all perfectly above board — and rather common — in the United Arab Emirates, where falconry is a centuries-old tradition and falcons are considered national treasures. Since 2002, these avian aristocrats have been required to carry passports to curb smuggling and illegal trade, and to ensure their high-flying journeys are recorded and regulated.
Flying with a falcon? It’s not as ruffled as you might imagine — especially if you’re flying Etihad. The airline accommodates these winged wonders across all classes, with a clear pecking order outlined in their policy:
🦅 Economy Class: One falcon per person, or two if you’ve bought an extra seat
🦅 Business Class: Two falcons per person, or three with an additional seat
🦅 First Class: Two falcons per person — naturally, only the finest for these feathered elites
Passengers must ensure they have all the correct permits and documentation — including, of course, the falcon’s very own passport — before flying.
The video of the Etihad-bound bird, confidently gazing at the departure board with passport in tow, has racked up over 1.6 million views and charmed the internet. One viewer dubbed it “the most dignified passenger of the year,” while another asked the very reasonable question: “Does the falcon get window or aisle?”
As Australia gears up for a record travel year and agents field requests for ever-more unique experiences, perhaps it’s time to brush up on avian visa requirements. After all, travel trends are for the birds — and they’re flying first class.
Featured Image: Falcons on a plane, credit: Reddit/Lensoo
