Our Story
Vicuna Air came to life after experiencing, first-hand, the limited options for flying dogs internationally.
When our family business, Naked Kitchens, began expansion into the United States, transatlantic travel became part of everyday life.
Leaving our dogs behind for more than a few days at a time simply wasn’t an option, and a cage in the hold wasn’t a matter for discussion.
The thought of Arthur or Monty in the hold was excruciating.
The answer was simple and complicated all at once - let’s start an airline.
Meet the Founder
"I know absolutely that dogs and cats deserve equal treatment, same as any family member."
I have been flying all my life, learning to fly at 16, before moving to fast jets in the Royal Air Force aged 18. I have been flying ever since, with a few thousand hours in my logbook across numerous different aircrafts. I have been spectacularly lucky. My favourite flying is in the mountains, landing on beautiful green grass amidst the mountain tops.
I have had dogs all my life, and the current family team are Arthur and Monty. Arthur is the most wonderful Sprocker Spaniel, who we took in as a rescue dog aged seven. After a difficult life, it has been one of life’s great privileges to watch him learn and relax and enjoy the things he now loves. Arthur has been a key driver behind the founding of Vicuna.
Monty is the face of Vicuna Air. Monty is a five-year-old terrier mutt of no known pedigree. Monty comes from Ireland and he had his first flight when he was just 13 weeks old, when I flew him back from Northern Ireland as a puppy. You’ll see him dotted throughout the site in drawing form, done by Eliza, our Vicuna Creative Lead. Monty spends most of his time on my lap or chasing squirrels. It is extremely rare to find me without him.
Granny Geese
Vicuna Air was inspired by my grandmother - known to us as Granny Geese, a nod to the flock she kept and her lifelong affection for flight. She was an aviatrix in the golden age of aviation, when air travel carried a sense of theatre, elegance and possibility that feels almost unimaginable today. Flying was not routine; it was an occasion.
In April 1927, when Charles Lindbergh landed in Paris following his historic transatlantic flight, she was there among the vast crowds who gathered to witness it. The following day, she flew back to London. I still have her original ticket from that journey - complete with her handwritten reflections from the day. Her spirit, adventurous yet refined, bold yet deeply considered - forms the foundation of Vicuna Air. We exist to honour that era of flying: where experience mattered, service was personal, and the journey was as meaningful as the destination.
Why Vicuna ?
The name Vicuna Air is inspired by the Peruvian vicuña.
Vicuñas are known for their wool – some of the most fine, soft, and luxurious natural fibres in the world. Historically, vicuña wool was reserved for royalty. This represents the standard of excellence we provide at Vicuna Air – for both person and pet.
Fine, soft, and smooth luxury is the foundation of everything we do at Vicuna Air.
