Kochi: Eva, a one-year-old mixed-breed cat, made history as the first pet imported through Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) under its newly acquired Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) certification. Arriving from Doha aboard Air India flight, Eva landed safely at 10:17 am on Thursday, a statement from the airport said.

The pet of KA Ramachandran, a resident of Chelakkara, Eva’s journey was handled seamlessly by CIAL’s team, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process, the statement said.

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Ramachandran expressed his satisfaction. “The airport provided excellent service. Customs and immigration were cleared without hassle, and the coordination was impeccable. I’m truly grateful for the care taken in bringing my pet home.”

Kochi airport, the only airport in Kerala authorised to handle pet import-export services, introduced its ‘Pet Export’ facility in July. With AQCS approval from the Central Animal Husbandry Department, the airport now offers dedicated facilities, including a pet station, veterinary services, and a quarantine centre.

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The airport is set to welcome another pet, a dog from Belgium, scheduled to arrive on Saturday, November 30.

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