Cat Forgotten on Plane Takes Three Flights Between New Zealand and Australia in 24 Hours

A Maine Coon cat named Mittens endured an unintended travel ordeal after being overlooked in the cargo hold, prompting Air New Zealand to apologize and cover all related costs.

• 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.

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