Overview

• Mittens, an eight-year-old Maine Coon, was traveling with her family from Christchurch, New Zealand, to Melbourne, Australia, as part of their relocation.
• Due to an oversight by airport staff, Mittens' transport box was left in the plane’s cargo hold and remained onboard as the aircraft returned to New Zealand.
• The pilot, informed of the situation mid-flight, activated the cargo hold's heating system to ensure Mittens' safety during the return journey.
• The cat ultimately made two additional flights—back to Christchurch and then to Melbourne again—before being reunited with her relieved owner, Margo Neas.
• Air New Zealand issued an apology, committed to covering all expenses, and vowed to improve procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.