Giant Panda Cub Le Le lands safely in China via exclusive Singapore Airlines flight

Thursday, January 18, 2024

The commencement of a new year signifies a fresh start for Le Le, who safely landed at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport on January 16, 2024. Currently undergoing his second round of mandatory quarantine, Le Le had previously completed the initial stage at River Wonders in the Mandai Wildlife Reserve before embarking on his journey to China. Throughout this quarantine period, the China Conservation and Research Center for Giant Panda (CCRCGP) will closely monitor Le Le to determine his most suitable permanent residence after the quarantine.

The day of departure was emotionally charged as the panda care team prepared Le Le for his flight, bidding heartfelt goodbyes. Le Le’s custom travel crate was loaded onto an air-conditioned truck, which departed for Singapore Changi Airport in the afternoon of January 16, 2024.

Minister of State (Trade and Industry) Mr. Alvin Tan and Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Singapore, Mr. Zhu Jing, were present on the tarmac to bid farewell to Le Le. Alongside the management of Mandai Wildlife Group and Singapore Airlines (SIA), they observed the loading of Le Le’s travel crate onto the specially arranged SIA Boeing 747-400F freighter aircraft.

Le Le was accompanied on the flight by his keeper and veterinarian from Mandai Wildlife Group, as well as a keeper from China. They diligently attended to Le Le, ensuring his well-being during the journey. Le Le adapted well to the flight, maintaining his water intake and displaying a healthy appetite throughout, indulging in bamboo, bamboo shoots, fruit, and pellets.

Le Le’s arrival in China marks a significant new chapter as he officially becomes part of China’s giant panda conservation program, contributing to the protection of his species.

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