First-Class for Falcons
At first glance, this might look like an ordinary traveler making his way through Doha Airport, but a closer look reveals two very distinguished companions perched calmly on a custom falcon stand. These birds of prey aren’t part of a magic trick or an elaborate costume—they’re genuine falcons, and in certain parts of the world, they fly just as frequently as their owners. In some Middle Eastern countries, especially in Qatar and the UAE, falconry is deeply embedded in cultural tradition, and it’s not unusual for these majestic creatures to accompany their handlers—even on commercial flights.
While some travelers fret about carry-on size or boarding groups, this man glides confidently through the terminal with birds that look more like royalty than pets. There’s even a sense of routine about it, as if the falcons have done this a dozen times before—and frankly, they probably have. It’s a surreal scene for the uninitiated, blending tradition with the modern chaos of air travel, and proves that in some airports, your flight neighbors might just have feathers and talons.
