Korean Air has announced a ban on transporting roosters on flights operating from the United States to the Philippines, a move welcomed by animal rights organisations campaigning against the international trade linked to cockfighting.
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The airline confirmed that it has suspended the transportation of roosters of all ages on routes between the two countries. In a statement, Korean Air said the decision aligns with its commitment to the lawful and safe transport of live animals in accordance with applicable regulations.
Korean Air bans roosters on US-Philippines routes amid cockfighting outcry https://t.co/q3v8cA4DPq
— ST Foreign Desk (@STForeignDesk) May 2, 2026
Animal welfare groups praised the move, describing it as a significant step toward reducing the supply of birds allegedly used in the cockfighting industry. The Philippines has one of the world’s largest cockfighting sectors, where specially bred roosters are used in organised fights that attract large betting volumes.
Activists have long argued that the United States serves as an important source of breeding birds exported for cockfighting purposes. Campaigners claim thousands of roosters are transported annually to the Philippines and other markets, often through commercial airlines.
Animal Wellness Action, a US-based advocacy group, said the airline’s decision followed months of investigations and corporate engagement aimed at ending shipments of birds allegedly linked to illegal animal fighting networks.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) representatives in the Philippines also welcomed the ban and expressed hope that other international airlines would adopt similar restrictions. Advocates argue that reducing transportation channels could disrupt supply chains supporting the controversial industry.
The airline did not specifically reference cockfighting in its official statement, but campaigners believe the policy shift is directly related to concerns surrounding animal welfare and the movement of fighting birds.
Industry figures in the Philippines have acknowledged the importance of imported US breeding lines in maintaining the local rooster market. Some breeders warn the new transport restrictions may significantly affect supply.
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The development has intensified debate over cockfighting, which remains legal in several jurisdictions but continues to face criticism from animal rights groups calling for broader international bans.