Pandas Take Flight: Le Le's Special Journey from Singapore to China

Earlier this week, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) in Southwest China's Sichuan province welcomed a unique and adorable VIP – a two-year-old giant panda named Le Le. Departing from Singapore, Le Le's arrival wasn't just any ordinary flight; it was a meticulously planned relocation for this beloved panda, carried out with precision and care.

Singapore Airlines facilitated Le Le's journey on a Boeing 747, a testament to the importance and sensitivity of this special cargo. Unlike regular flights to Chengdu's Tianfu International Airport, Le Le's transportation required specific arrangements, given his unique needs and status.

Ensuring Comfort in the Skies

The flight, bearing the number SQ7188, departed from Singapore on January 16 at 19:17 local time, as per Flightradar24 data. The Boeing 747-400F aircraft, registered as 9V-SFP, made this special journey with Le Le on board, touching down in Chengdu after nearly four hours in the air.

The journey was far from ordinary, with particular attention paid to creating bespoke conditions for Le Le. The cargo hold's environment, where Le Le's custom crate was securely placed, was carefully monitored for optimal temperature and humidity, ensuring the panda's utmost comfort.

Accompanying Le Le was a team of specialists, including his keeper and veterinarian from the Mandai Wildlife Group and a keeper from China. Their expertise was crucial in maintaining Le Le's well-being throughout the flight, with special attention to his dietary needs, including his appetite for bamboo.

Preparations and Quarantine

The meticulous planning for Le Le's travel began long before the flight. The Mandai Wildlife Group ensured the 747 was pre-cooled to a panda-friendly temperature of 12-16°C (53.6-60.8°F). This thorough preparation led to a smooth operation, allowing Le Le to now undergo a quarantine period before settling into his permanent residence.

A Trend in Panda Transportation

Le Le's journey is part of a larger trend of transporting pandas to their native China. Notably, China Southern Airlines and FedEx have also participated in similar missions, moving these precious animals with the utmost care and attention.