oneworld airlines sign declaration to combat wildlife trafficking

The oneworld airline alliance has achieved unanimous support from all 15 of its member airlines to sign the Buckingham Palace Declaration, a commitment aimed at curbing illegal wildlife trafficking through commercial transport networks.

Announced at an International Air Transport Association event in Brussels, the agreement makes oneworld the first airline alliance to secure full member participation in the initiative. The declaration includes 11 specific actions, such as adopting zero-tolerance policies, improving shipment detection methods, training staff to identify suspicious cargo, and sharing information with customs and law enforcement agencies.

The initiative seeks to prevent criminal organizations from exploiting international air cargo networks to move protected animals and wildlife products. By participating, the alliance's network—which spans nearly 1,000 destinations—will work more closely with conservation groups and government authorities to strengthen detection and reporting capabilities.