Brussels Airport has opened a new dnata-operated Animal Care & Inspection Center as it seeks to set the standard on a European level for animal transport.

The facility opened on June 1 and the Belgian airport said each animal accommodation has a central system which adjusts the light colour, the temperature and the ventilation for each area in line with the specific needs of each type of animal.

Brussels Airport noted that each year, it received thousands of animals among its many passengers including pets, police dogs, reptiles and horses, but also a rare visit by a panda.

The import and export sides in the building are completely separated from each other for ventilation and so no contamination is possible.

The animal accommodations can be used by both small and large animal species.

On the import side, there are 4 inspection rooms — 1 for horses, 2 multifunctional area and 1 cool room for insects — 7 centrally controlled animal accommodations and 10 horse stables.

For export, there is no mandatory control. On that side, 4 multi-functional treatment rooms are provided and 3 centrally controlled accommodations.

Outside there is also a green area for four-footers who need it, whereby import and export are strictly separated.

 “The additional health measures required by the current corona crisis are, of course, also fully observed,” Brussels airport said in its statement. “The necessary precautionary measures will be applied so that the animals passing through our airport at the moment are housed in all safety.”

The airport said that it handles thousands of animals each year, including pets, police dogs, reptiles and horses, but also a rare visit by a panda.

“We consider the comfort of all our passengers important, including that of the animals that travel via the airport. That is why we have, in consultation with the competent authorities, with experts and with our customers, developed this ultramodern Animal Care & Inspection Center," said Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport.

"An animal centre that sets a new standard on a European level in the area of welfare and provides the best possible workplace for the personnel. With this we ensure that the animals among our passengers are also housed in the very best conditions.”

The Animal Care & Inspection Center includes the new border inspection centre for the Federal Agency for Food Safety, which must check any live animal being imported in order to guarantee public health.

Brussels Airport also said it aims to make this building as sustainable as possible and will be fitted with heat transfer pumps, solar panels, a green roof and a rainwater recovery system.