Etihad Cargo has helped transport two rescued brown bears from Russia to a wildlife sanctuary in Ireland, the airline said.

The bears, Bu, a former circus bear, and Tyapa, who had been kept at a petting zoo, lived for years in unsuitable conditions in Dagestan, Russia, according to an Etihad press release.

They arrived in Ireland on Aug 4, 2026, ending what the airline described as a five-year international rescue effort led by Killian McLaughlin, founder and director of Wild Ireland, a sanctuary in County Donegal. The release said more than 100 people across several countries took part.

Etihad Cargo carried the bears from Moscow to Dublin through its Abu Dhabi hub, the release said. It worked with Abu Dhabi Airports and Velora on specialist handling and transit arrangements at Zayed International Airport. The airline said its live-animal transport is backed by IATA CEIV Live Animals certification.

Stanislas Brun, Etihad’s Chief Cargo Officer, said the rescue shows how collaboration can help animals start a new life. He said the airline’s global network can support wildlife conservation and animal welfare.

McLaughlin said that after five years of challenges, seeing the bears reach their new home was “incredibly rewarding.” He said the rescue relied on the kindness and determination of people in several countries.

The bears moved into a new forest habitat at Wild Ireland in September and are showing encouraging signs of recovery as they adapt to their surroundings, the release said.

The rescue is being documented by Abu Dhabi-based Moondance Productions, whose documentary is expected in 2027, according to the release. Its CEO Shane Brennan said it was a privilege to film the journey.

Source: PR