Runways Closed at Paris Airport to Search for Escaped Dog

Two runways at Paris Charles-de-Gaulle Airport were temporarily closed on Tuesday as officials deployed a drone to locate a dog that escaped from an aircraft last week. The dog, belonging to an Austrian tourist, slipped out of its carrier during an unloading operation after arriving on an Air France flight from Vienna.

Intensive Search Efforts

The airport police and Air France have been conducting an exhaustive search for the dog since its escape. Despite spotting and approaching the animal multiple times, attempts to capture it have been unsuccessful. On Tuesday, the search escalated with the use of a drone, which required runway closures during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions to flight schedules. Officials plan to tranquilize the dog using a hypodermic needle once they get close enough.

Support for the Owner

Air France has covered the tourist’s accommodation costs at Charles-de-Gaulle while searches continue. Posters have also been distributed to airport staff to aid in locating the pet. Search efforts, which include nighttime operations, have involved the owner’s participation.

Europe's Busiest Airport

Charles-de-Gaulle, one of the busiest airports in the European Union, briefly halted operations on two of its four runways to support the search. The airport’s swift action underscores the importance of ensuring both safety and the welfare of passengers' pets during transit.