South African Airways has reverses an embargo on the transportation of rhino, elephant, lion and tiger trophies on its services worldwide. The embargo was in effect from April 21.
The Professional Hunters Association of South Africa (PHASA) has welcomed the decision. Adri Kitshoff, Chief Executive of PHASA, said the reversal brought SAA’s directives regarding the transportation of legally hunted trophies in line with the South African Government’s policy of “sustainable utilisation” of its natural resources.
PHASA met with executives of SAA to explain the importance of hunting to Africa’s economy and conservation programmes and said it appreciated the Department of Environmental Affairs’ intervention in the matter.
Kitshoff said: “SAA has elected to fight the illicit trade in wildlife products through more stringent control methods instead of placing restrictions on the transport of legally hunted sport trophies. The same remedy is available to the other carriers.”
Kitshoff added that there was a clear distinction between illegal wildlife products, such as poached rhino horn or ivory and legitimate hunting trophies. “The export of trophies is strictly regulated by both the country of origin, the country of import and, where applicable, CITES.”
PHASA hopes other airlines and shipping lines that refuse to transport hunting trophies will follow SAA’s decision.
