I want to share something that is unfolding right now, and I do so carefully — because it is painful, but also because it illustrates why this petition exists.
An African Grey parrot on the Big Island has just lost their human companion. The bird is 12 years old and has spent their entire life with the person who cared for them, since they were a small chick. That person has recently passed away, leaving the bird alone, confused, and grieving.
I am currently trying to help arrange safe rehoming for this bird with a reputable sanctuary on Oʻahu that specializes in compassionate transitions and long-term care. This is exactly the kind of situation where minimizing stress and providing continuity of care matters most.
And yet, because of Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines current cruel double-standard policy toward birds, this already-traumatized parrot cannot travel in the cabin with a caregiver. Instead, the bird will be forced to travel as cargo.
This is not a matter of convenience. It is not theoretical.
It is about emotionally harming an animal who has just lost their familiar world. It is about subjecting that helpless bird to needless additional stress at the very moment when gentleness and stability are most needed — solely because of a blanket policy that treats birds differently from other companion animals.
Situations like this happen quietly, without headlines. But they are happening — and they are one reason so many bird owners, veterinarians, and caregivers are asking airlines to reconsider policies that cause real harm in real lives.
If this story resonates with you, one simple way to help is to share this petition with others, to help them understand why safe, in-cabin travel matters for birds. And if you haven’t already, you’re welcome to add your name in support of more humane policies for companion birds.
Thank you for standing with those who cannot speak for themselves.
PS. If you have not yet seen this wonderful video put out by Jaimieleigh Womach, you can view it here: