Brussels Airport’s Animal Care & Inspection Centre welcomes 10,000 mammals in five years

Since opening in 2020, Brussels Airport’s Animal Care & Inspection Centre (ACIC) has processed nearly 10,000 mammals, establishing itself as a European leader in live animal transport logistics. The 2,000 m² facility caters to a wide range of species — from dogs, cats, and horses to exotic animals and insects — in a stress-free, high-welfare environment.

Key achievements:

• Nearly 5,500 dogs, 800 cats, and 1,600 horses were cared for
• Certified by IATA CEIV Live Animals since 2022
• Hosts FASFC border controls to ensure regulatory compliance
• Advanced infrastructure: separate import/export areas, veterinary lab, climate-adaptable zones, mobile stables, and even a refrigerated insect room

Notable animal guests include hippos, snow leopards, hammerhead sharks, and 489 alpacas in one shipment. The ACIC also facilitated the high-profile transfers of pandas and golden snub-nosed monkeys, earning praise from Pairi Daiza Zoo for its professionalism and commitment to animal welfare.

Travel tips for passengers with pets:

• Cabin travel usually limited to dogs and cats under 8 kg, in secure carriers
• EU pet passport, microchip, and rabies vaccination (min. 21 days prior) are required
• For non-EU destinations, consult the destination country’s embassy for entry rules

Brussels Airport’s ACIC stands as a benchmark for compassionate and compliant animal transport across Europe.