Report:

Event: AVIH Death

Carrier: Hawaiian Airlines

Date of event: 5/21/2024

Flight: HA50

Breed: French Bulldog

Age: Unknown

Brief Description of Incident: During the offloading of forward compartment on inbound flight HA50/21MAY at 0830, ramp noticed that 1 of 3 total AVIs loaded on PLA52940R7 was nonresponsive and appeared to be deceased. Ramp notified the Loadmaster, HA Operations, and the Swissport Ramp MOD of a possible deceased AVI. After further inspection it was confirmed that 1 of 2 AVIs under AWB 173-9164 0986 was deceased. The Loadmaster notified AO Ops Mgr. of incident. An agent escorted the AVIs including the deceased AVI to warehouse where the agent met with the customer and explained what had happened.

Description of the Cause of Incident: Gross evaluation reveals a congenital peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia with extension of falciform fat into pericardial sac, compressing the heart. Congenital diaphragmatic hernias can be clinically silent for long periods of time. However, times of severe stress can lead to acute decompensation and cardiac insufficiency. Additionally noted are characteristics of brachycephalic airway syndrome, including stenotic nares and an elongated soft palate. Brachycephalic airway syndrome can lead to decreased oxygenation and hypoxia, particularly in times of stress, which may have contributed to death in this case.

Description of Corrective Action Taken (if any): Review of procedure / policy for acceptance of snub-nosed breeds for long-haul; policy change to prohibit acceptance of snub-nosed breeds for all flights.