Passengers at Zhukovsky International Airport faced a notable incident when a group of travelers left behind a kitten because the required documents for the animal were missing, preventing the pet from boarding the flight. An airport employee stepped in and decided to take responsibility for the kitten. The event ultimately led to another small cat finding a home through the actions of the staff, as reported by a reporter from 360 TV.
When entering the terminal, passengers are allowed to hold a pet on their lap during the initial check, but proper paperwork is required to transport the animal further. In this case, airline staff requested the necessary documents for the cat, but neither documentation nor a suitable carrier was available at the time.
One airport official commented that this situation violated the standard protocol. The kitten was being carried in an ordinary bag, which did not meet the proper transport requirements for animals on board.
Facing complaints from fellow travelers, the group nonetheless proceeded with their flight and left the kitten behind. Two airport workers immediately expressed a desire to recover the pet for its original family.
A decision was later made to adopt the animal as a permanent member of the family of one of the airport employees. The selection followed a brief informal process among staff, with the person who initially volunteered to shelter the kitten being chosen. The adopter emphasized experience in pet care and a sincere readiness to provide a loving home.
The rescued kitten is expected to receive veterinary care, including vaccinations, before settling into its new home. The staff member who offered to take in the animal noted that any future arrangements with the animal’s original owners would depend on their willingness to reclaim the pet.
Another staff member, who had hoped to help the kitten, chose to obtain a companion from a local shelter. As a result, two small cats found homes through simultaneous acts of kindness by airport personnel.
In related developments, discussions in the State Duma touched on changes to animal transportation rules. Vladimir Burmatov, the deputy chairman of the Committee on Ecology, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, explained that pets should be treated as full passengers rather than baggage when traveling. These comments reflect ongoing concerns about how animals are handled in transit.
This city’s recent episode recalls a prior incident involving Twix, a cat that was reportedly removed from a train by a conductor who cited concerns about animal safety. The episode has sparked renewed conversations about animal welfare and proper handling in transportation settings.