Mittens the Cat Becomes an Accidental Frequent Flyer After Being Left on Plane

The 8-year-old Maine coon made three unexpected flights between New Zealand and Australia before reuniting with her family.

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Mittens, an 8-year-old Maine coon cat, unintentionally became a globe-trotting traveler this month after her cage was overlooked in a plane's cargo hold, leading to an unexpected 24-hour journey between New Zealand and Australia.

Mittens was originally set to fly one way from Christchurch, New Zealand, to Melbourne, Australia, with her family on January 13. However, owner Margo Neas quickly realized something was wrong when three hours passed at Melbourne Airport without any sign of her beloved pet.

Airport staff then informed Neas that the plane had already returned to New Zealand—with Mittens still onboard. The round-trip flight involves approximately 7.5 hours in the air.

“I kept thinking, how could this happen? How could they leave my cat on the plane?” Neas said.

Upon realizing Mittens was still in the cargo hold, the Air New Zealand pilot ensured the heating was turned on to keep her comfortable. The airline later explained that a stowed wheelchair had blocked a baggage handler’s view of the cat’s cage, causing the oversight.

A Happy Ending for a Jet-Setting Feline

For Neas, the ordeal cast a shadow over her family’s new start in Melbourne. “It didn’t feel right because we weren’t complete without Mittens,” she said.

Fortunately, the pet moving company that had arranged Mittens’ travel retrieved her upon her unexpected return to Christchurch and ensured she was placed on the next available flight back to Melbourne—this time, as planned.

Despite the unexpected detour and losing some weight, Mittens was unharmed.

“She ran straight into my arms, snuggled up, and gave the biggest cuddles ever,” Neas recalled. “It was just such a relief.”

Air New Zealand has apologized for the mix-up and confirmed that all costs associated with Mittens’ travels will be reimbursed.

“We deeply regret the distress this has caused and are working closely with our ground handler in Melbourne to ensure this doesn’t happen again,” said airline spokesperson Alisha Armstrong.

As for Mittens, who is typically more reserved, she has become extra affectionate since the ordeal.

“She’s getting all the cuddles she wants,” Neas said. “We’re just beyond relieved to have her back.”