Abu Dhabi: Emirates is trying to raise awareness about the threat the trade in illegal wildlife poses to the survival of some of the planet’s most endangered and iconic animals.
On Monday, the Dubai based airlines unveiled its “fifth” A380 emblazoned with special livery in support of United for Wildlife — an alliance between seven of the world’s most influential conservation organisations and The Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.
Unlike its four jet-powered siblings, this latest Emirates United for Wildlife A380 aircraft is more grounded, specifically at the traffic roundabout leading to London Heathrow airport.
The Emirates A380 model is built to an exact 1:3 scale of a real A380 aircraft and weighs more than 45 tonnes, the airline said in a statement.
Since November, the airline’s four eye-catching “United for Wildlife” A380 aircraft have flown more than 4.2 million kilometres on over 800 flights spreading the message against wildlife trade.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline said: “The illegal wildlife trade has brought many of our planet’s most majestic animals to the brink of extinction.”
“The need for action is urgent, and both the demand and supply side of the illegal wildlife trade has to be tackled. Through our global brand footprint, Emirates can help drive consumer awareness and interest in the issue.”
