Airport Insights: Starwood Staff Airport Visits

At Starwood, we take pride in our exceptional team of knowledgeable staff and our commitment to providing superior customer service. One of the key factors that sets our staff apart is our dedication to visiting airports worldwide. These visits allow us to immerse ourselves in the intricacies of airport processes and procedures, ensuring that our partners maintain the highest standards in ensuring the safe and comfortable travel of pets.

Team Building at Starwood

In a heartwarming display of teamwork and dedication, a group of our Starwood team members recently gathered in Chicago to participate in the "tender" process for one of our beloved furry friends. This hands-on experience was a crucial step in ensuring that every member of our staff truly understands the intricate journey that each pet undertakes from the moment of pick up, all the way through to the airport check-in process.

At Starwood, we place a high value on empathy and firsthand knowledge, which is why these team-building exercises are so important to us. By immersing ourselves in the day-to-day operations of our "on the ground" team, we are able to gain a deeper understanding of the care and attention to detail required for each and every pet move. Our ultimate goal is to guarantee the safety and well-being of every furry passenger in our care, and these immersive experiences allow us to do just that.

Understanding the Importance of Airport Visits

Airport visits play a crucial role in the training and development of Starwood's pet transportation staff. By visiting the airports where pets are transported, our staff gains firsthand knowledge of the processes and procedures involved in the safe handling of animals. This allows us to better understand the unique challenges and requirements of each airport, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for both pets and their owners.

During these visits, our staff has the opportunity to interact with airport personnel, such as customs officers and quarantine officials, who play a key role in the pet transportation process. This face-to-face interaction helps build relationships and fosters collaboration, enabling us to provide the best possible care for the furry passengers entrusted to us.

Safety and Security Protocols

The safety and security of pets during transportation is of utmost importance to us. That's why our staff undergoes rigorous training on safety protocols.

One of the key aspects of pet transportation safety is ensuring proper crate and kennel requirements. Our staff is well-versed in the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animal Regulations, which outline the standards for pet crates and kennels. They ensure that the crates are of appropriate size, well-ventilated, and secure, providing a comfortable and safe environment for the pets.

In addition, our drivers are trained in handling and restraint techniques to minimize stress and ensure the safety of both pets and staff during the transportation process. They are also equipped with knowledge on emergency procedures and first aid, allowing them to respond effectively in case of any unforeseen situations.

Furthermore, our staff collaborates closely with airport authorities to comply with all security protocols. This includes screening procedures, documentation checks, and coordination with airport security personnel to ensure the smooth passage of pets through the airport.

As an IAC (indirect air carrier), Starwood actually requires all of our drivers to have a Security Threat Assessment (STA), which is why we cannot allow pet owners to check pets in themselves.

Benefits of Regular Airport Visits

Regular airport visits provide numerous benefits for our pet transportation staff. Firstly, it allows them to stay up-to-date with the latest airport facilities, technologies, and procedures. This knowledge helps us streamline our operations and provide an efficient and reliable service to our clients.

Moreover, being present at the airports where pets are transported gives our staff a better understanding of the overall travel experience for pets. They can observe any potential stressors or areas of improvement and make adjustments to ensure the well-being and comfort of the animals. We have actually provided feedback to airlines on suggested changes to make the pet transport process better. 

Regular airport visits serve as a valuable opportunity for our staff to expand their knowledge and expertise in pet transportation. They can learn from industry experts and exchange best practices with other professionals in the field. This continuous learning and professional development contribute to the high standard of service we provide to our clients.