Leo Hong Kong and Cathay Cargo create a flying ark for the world’s most adorable passengers
Sloths, flamingos, alpacas, penguins and other adorable creatures star in Cathay Cargo’s latest campaign, created via Leo Hong Kong, which highlights the meticulous care and attention that each animal receives when travelling with Cathay Cargo’s Live Animal services.
The campaign reimagines a modern-day “ark” – only with wings, not sails – to showcase the spectacular diversity of animals that can travel with the airline, as well as the bespoke care they receive on every flight.
From champion racehorses and celebrity giant pandas to beloved pets, livestock or newly hatched chicks, the team at Cathay Cargo are true animal lovers who are trained to care for their passengers – furred, feathered or finned, big and small – as if they are their own.
Cathay Cargo’s complete shipment solutions are tailored to each species’ varying needs, because no two animals are alike. With specialised animal-handling equipment, temperature-controlled cabins, bespoke storage rooms and handling infrastructure, every animal feels at home with Cathay Cargo, with customised routes ensuring a safe, comfortable journey every time.
“Behind every trip is a team of genuine animal lovers committed to the well-being of every creature we carry. In this video, we aim to narrate the utmost care we provide in Cathay Live Animal solutions, connecting the importance of compassion with the beauty of these creatures. Whether welcoming a show horse, an endangered species, or a cherished pet, we pride ourselves on treating our guests not as mere shipments, but as living beings with heartbeats deserving of tailored, professional care as we help move them around the world,” says Edward Bell, General Manager, Brand, Insights and Marketing Communications at Cathay.
Directed by Brent Bonacorso, who is known for his distinct style and mastery of VFX and AI, all animals are created with the help of AI to ensure not a single animal had to endure the stress of a production set.
João Braga, Global Executive Creative Director at Publicis Groupe Hong Kong, said: “Cathay Cargo not only has the expertise in transporting all kinds of animals, they genuinely care for each species on their watch. So when we landed on the idea of a modern-day ark, we saw an opportunity to be truly intentional with the use of tech. If we can use AI to avoid putting animals through the stress of a taxing shoot, then why wouldn’t we?”
Cathay Cargo is the only carrier in Asia to be certified by International Air Transport Association’s CEIV Live Animals, which ensures safe, healthy and humane travel for animals.
Its latest campaign is now airing across online, print, outdoor, social and below-the-line channels, and targets a global B2B audience of animal owners, breeders, producers, buyers and agents who demand the highest standards in professional animal handling.
Credits
Client: Cathay Cargo
General Manager, Brand, Insights and Marketing Communications, Cathay: Edward Bell
Head of Marketing, Cathay Cargo: Ricardo Lo
Cargo Marketing Manager, Cathay Cargo: Janet Cheng
Cargo Marketing Assistant Manager, Cathay Cargo: Amy Tam
Cargo Marketing Officer, Cathay Cargo: Kelly Cheung
Creative Agency: Leo Hong Kong
Chief Creative Officer, Leo Hong Kong: Christopher Lee
Global Executive Creative Director, Leo Hong Kong: Joao Braga
Executive Creative Director, Leo Hong Kong: Halo Cheng
Creative Director, Leo Hong Kong: Wai Wong
Associate Creative Director, Leo Hong Kong: Fiona Chow
Senior Art Director, Leo Hong Kong: Wing Ho Lam
Art Director, Leo Hong Kong: Timmy Lee
Head of Creative Service, Leo Hong Kong: Pelie Kwok
Managing Partner, Leo Hong Kong: Dennis Yeung
Director of Client Services, Leo Hong Kong: Kenneth Poon
Associate Account Director, Leo Hong Kong: Stacey Yam
Senior Account Manager, Leo Hong Kong: Tanya Yip
Strategy Director, Leo Hong Kong: Garron Chiu
Agency Producer, Prodigious: Armelle Sudron
Director: Brent Bonacorso
Production House: LuckySparks Films Ltd
