United Airlines is facing another PR nightmare following reports that a giant rabbit died on a flight from the UK to the US.
The three foot-long continental rabbit, called Simon, was found dead in the cargo hold when the flight arrived at Chicago's O'Hare airport from London Heathrow, The Sun reported. Breeder Annette Edwards told the paper that Simon was expected to be the world's largest rabbit after his father, Darius, grew to 4ft 4in. She said he was healthy when placed in the hold and was on his way to meet a new "celebrity" owner.
"Simon had a vet's check-up three hours before the flight and was fit as a fiddle," Edwards said. "Something very strange has happened and I want to know what. I've sent rabbits all around the world and nothing like this has happened before."
In a statement, United said it was "saddened by the news". Speaking to the BBC, the spokesperson added: "The safety and well-being of all the animals that travel with us is of the utmost importance to United Airlines and our PetSafe team. We have been in contact with our customer and have offered assistance. We are reviewing this matter."
The death of Simon the rabbit comes just three weeks after a video showing passenger David Dao being dragged off a United Express flight by authorities sparked outrage around the world. The incident, which was filmed by other passengers and quickly went viral online, became an international embarrassment for the airline.
