Intradco Global Successfully Completes Live Air Transport of 1,200 Breeding Pigs

Large-Scale Animal Transport Operation

On September 1, 2025, Intradco Global, part of the Chapman Freeborn Group, announced the successful completion of a major live animal air transport project involving 1,200 breeding pigs. The shipment, conducted in July 2025, moved the animals from Denmark to the Philippines aboard a fully chartered B747-400F freighter aircraft.

The pigs were delivered to the end-client’s farm in the Philippines, where they will play a crucial role in breeding and genetic multiplication programs designed to improve local livestock quality and productivity.

Animal Welfare as Top Priority

The transport of live animals requires strict adherence to welfare standards, and Intradco Global implemented a series of specialist solutions to ensure the pigs traveled safely and comfortably.

According to Luca Mario Leisi, Account Manager – Live Animal at Intradco Global, bespoke wooden transport crates were specially designed for the shipment. These crates included extra-large watering systems to keep the pigs hydrated and comfortable throughout the long-haul flight.

Additionally, Intradco deployed its unique “pig lift”, a custom-converted vehicle that enables pigs to transfer smoothly from trucks into crates without having to climb steep ramps. This minimized stress and reduced the risk of injury. Once loaded onto the aircraft, the pigs’ welfare was continuously monitored by an Intradco animal welfare specialist and a representative of the client.

Precision Planning and Coordination

The successful operation was the result of nearly three months of planning, preparation, and coordination with multiple stakeholders. This included critical steps such as:

Quarantining the animals in a dedicated facility
Placing them on a specialized diet before departure
Coordinating logistics with airports, handlers, and ground teams

Leisi explained:

“We have been closely collaborating with multiple stakeholders for around three months. Pre-flight preparation was extensive, from quarantine arrangements to dietary requirements. Every detail had to be carefully managed to ensure the pigs’ health and safety.”

Overcoming Last-Minute Challenges

One of the most notable challenges arose when the team faced a last-minute change of departure airport. Such changes can cause major disruptions in complex logistics projects, but Intradco’s team managed the adjustment smoothly.

“This change was skillfully handled by our team,” said Leisi. “We reconfigured the arrangements quickly while still meeting the client’s requirements. It demonstrates our ability to combine world-leading expertise with robust risk management.”

Despite the unexpected adjustment, the pigs were loaded and transported according to schedule, and the project concluded successfully.

Trusted Global Leader in Animal Air Transport

With more than three decades of expertise, Intradco Global has established itself as the world’s leading live animal transporter by air. The company has earned the trust of:

Zoos and aquariums transporting rare and endangered species
Wildlife conservation organizations moving animals for breeding or reintroduction programs
Commercial breeders and farms seeking safe and efficient transport solutions

Intradco ensures that each project complies with strict animal welfare standards, delivering species-specific solutions that balance safety, efficiency, and comfort.

Company Background and Global Network

Founded in 1987, Intradco Global operates a comprehensive network of offices across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, the UAE, South Africa, and Australia. This global footprint enables the company to provide end-to-end solutions tailored to the unique needs of every client and species.

Intradco is part of the Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider. Avia Solutions Group manages a fleet of 209 aircraft worldwide and oversees more than 250 subsidiaries across aviation, logistics, and related services.

Setting a Standard for the Future

The successful transport of 1,200 breeding pigs from Denmark to the Philippines highlights Intradco Global’s ability to manage large-scale, complex animal transportation projects with efficiency and care. By combining custom-built solutions, advanced equipment, and strict welfare supervision, the company reinforced its reputation as a trusted leader in the industry.

Looking ahead, Intradco remains committed to innovation, operational excellence, and animal welfare, ensuring it continues to set benchmarks in the field of live animal logistics worldwide.