Cat's Accidental Adventures: Mittens the Maine Coon Becomes Unlikely Frequent Flyer

A Maine Coon cat named Mittens has become an unexpected traveler after being inadvertently left on a plane, resulting in three unplanned flights between New Zealand and Australia in just 24 hours. The incident occurred on January 13, when Mittens was scheduled for a one-way journey with her owner, Margo Neas, from Christchurch to Melbourne.

As Neas awaited her pet’s arrival, three hours passed without any sign of Mittens. Ground staff later informed her that Mittens remained on board, as a wheelchair stowed in the cargo hold had obstructed a baggage handler’s view of her cage. The Air New Zealand pilot, made aware of the extra furry passenger, ensured conditions in the cargo area were comfortable for the cat during the flight back to New Zealand.

Although the situation was distressing for Neas, who noted it was “not a great start to our new life in Melbourne,” the story concluded on a positive note. The pet moving company responsible for Mittens' travel successfully transported her back to the plane for another trip—this time directly to Melbourne. Upon reunion, Neas reported Mittens had lost some weight but was otherwise unharmed and “the cuddliest she’s ever been.”

Air New Zealand has apologized for the incident and promised to reimburse all costs associated with Mittens' travel, pledging to work with ground handlers to prevent such occurrences in the future.