Loganair transported a very special passenger today (Tuesday, 10th February) – but instead of a celebrity, the airline welcomed onboard a rescued loggerhead turtle.
The UK’s largest regional airline received special dispensation to fly Crush within the passenger cabin on a scheduled service from Jersey to Southampton, allowing her to continue her rehabilitation with specialists at the SeaLife Centre in Weymouth, near Dorset.
Crush washed up on a Jersey beach during the recent Storm Goretti, having been swept far off course from her natural habitat. Loggerhead turtles typically live in much warmer waters and are rarely found in the Channel Islands, but powerful storms and ocean currents can disorientate them, leading to a condition known as ‘cold stunning’, where prolonged exposure to cold water causes their bodies to shut down.
After being discovered by a member of the public, weak and malnourished, she was taken to New Era Veterinary Hospital in St Saviour, where she has been receiving round-the-clock treatment from Peter Haworth, clinical director at the practice.
Peter and his team contacted Loganair to see whether the airline could support them in moving the turtle to the next stage of her rehabilitation, after it was decided that a ferry crossing would cause Crush undue stress and affect her recovery.
Ronnie Matheson, chief commercial officer at Loganair, said: “This was certainly one of the more unusual passengers we’ve welcomed on board, but supporting Crush’s journey was something we were very happy to do. Our teams worked closely with Peter and his colleagues to ensure that she could travel as calmly and comfortably as possible, whilst ensuring the safety of all of our passengers and colleagues.”
Working closely with Peter and the relevant authorities, Loganair received special dispensation to transport Crush within the passenger cabin on a scheduled service from Jersey to Southampton. The flight departed from Jersey Airport, where Loganair’s base forms a key part of its growing Channel Islands operation, with permanently stationed aircraft, local crews and engineering support.
Dan Townsend, head of airside operations at Southampton Airport, said: "We’re delighted to support this special journey and play a small part in helping this young turtle get the expert care it needs. Our teams work closely with airline partners like Loganair to make sure unique animal movements like this one are handled safely and smoothly, and we’re proud to help facilitate its onward recovery.”
As the UK’s leading regional airline, Loganair provides vital air connectivity for island and regional communities across its network. The airline operates a growing base in Jersey, reflecting its long-term commitment to the Channel Islands and the lifeline services they rely on.
