Last month, Air Charter Service (ACS), in collaboration with a leading South African conservation and relocation company, successfully facilitated the transportation of 39 white rhinoceroses from Namibia to Dallas. The rhinos were relocated as part of three breeding programs aimed at preserving the unique genetics of Namibia’s white rhino population and contributing to species conservation.
Lyndee du Toit, CEO of ACS Africa, explained the significance of the mission:
“This project was designed to responsibly and ethically conserve the endangered white rhino population and safeguard the genetic diversity of Namibian rhinos against the threat of poaching.
“It marked the largest rhino translocation ever undertaken and involved months of meticulous planning in partnership with the conservation company and the airline.
“Over the years, we’ve gained substantial experience in transporting these magnificent animals. In 2021, we arranged a charter to move 30 rhinos from South Africa to Rwanda, which, at the time, was the largest single translocation project. This latest operation, involving 39 rhinos, sets a new record for the most rhinos flown on a single aircraft.
“Transporting these animals required a carefully designed load plan to fit all the oversized containers onto a Boeing B747. During the flight, a team of veterinarians was on hand to ensure the animals’ welfare.
“Due to the rhinos’ combined weight of 80 tons, a refueling stop in Sal, Cape Verde, was necessary before the aircraft continued to Dallas Fort Worth Airport. Upon arrival, the rhinos were unloaded under the strict supervision of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before continuing their journey to their new homes.”
Following their release from quarantine bomas, all 39 rhinos have successfully adapted to their new environments and are thriving in their new habitats.