Mashable: In a captivating and somewhat unusual story, a Saudi prince made headlines in 2017 for taking luxury travel to new heights—not for himself, but for his 80 falcons. A resurfaced photo on social media recently showcased the extraordinary event where the royal family member went the extra mile to ensure his birds of prey traveled in comfort and security.

According to reports from CN Traveler, the Saudi prince went so far as to book every individual seat on the airplane for his majestic falcons. The photo, originally shared by a Reddit user named Lensoo, featured the birds perched in coach alongside a few human passengers. The caption read, "Saudi prince bought ticket for his 80 Hawks (falcons)."

One Saudi prince took things to the next level for his avian flying companions where he reportedly purchased individual seats for each of his 80 falcons.

While the concept might seem peculiar to some, transporting falcons on planes is a common practice in the Middle East, particularly in countries where falconry holds cultural and historical significance. Falconry, the ancient sport of hunting with birds of prey, is deeply rooted in the Arabian Peninsula's heritage and identity, with traditions dating back thousands of years.

In the Middle East, falcons are highly valued, and these majestic birds even have their own passports. This unique documentation allows them to cross borders alongside their owners, often for the purposes of hunting expeditions or falconry competitions.

Reports indicate that certain airlines in the region accommodate the transportation of falcons. Qatar Airways, for instance, permits a maximum of six falcons per customer on board. Etihad Airways reportedly allows falcons either in the main cabin or as checked baggage. Given that the falcon is the national bird of the UAE, it is not surprising that several Gulf airlines are equipped to cater to their avian passengers.

Beyond the spectacle of a flight filled with falcons, this story provides a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of tradition and modernity in Middle Eastern culture. It underscores the profound lengths to which some falcon owners are willing to go to ensure the well-being of their cherished birds, showcasing the enduring importance of falconry in contemporary times.