Pilots told not to fly over Edinburgh Zoo as panda 'could miscarry'

Updated
Pilots told not to fly over Edinburgh Zoo as panda 'could miscarry' due to noise
Pilots told not to fly over Edinburgh Zoo as panda 'could miscarry' due to noise



Officials have asked pilots not to fly over Edinburgh Zoo as pregnant panda Tian Tian could lose her baby if disturbed.

The Civil Aviation Authority requested that pilots avoid flying in the area to reduce noise, reports the Daily Mail.

Tian Tian was artificially inseminated in April and her pregnancy was announced last week.

Zoo staff will not know for certain until she gives birth but her hormone and protein levels are being checked regularly, reports the Express.

Zookeepers want to give the giant panda her best chance and have asked pilots not to fly in the area.

Zoo hopeful of panda pregnancy
Zoo hopeful of panda pregnancy



If the cub is born it will be the first panda cub ever to be born in Britain.

A successful pregnancy could mean a £50million boost to the Scottish economy.

don't disturb pregnant panda at Edinburgh Zoo
don't disturb pregnant panda at Edinburgh Zoo



A CAA spokesman said: "Following a request from Edinburgh Zoo through the air traffic control unit at Edinburgh Airport, we issued a NoTam on July 11 requesting pilots to not fly within a one-mile radius of the zoo or below 1,900 feet above sea level.

"The NoTam was advisory so if necessary, pilots could still fly through this area providing they complied with the rules of the air.

"The NoTam expired on July 31 and there are no plans to issue any similar advice to pilots operating in the area."

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Pandemonium for Edinburgh Zoo as Panda Is 'Pregnant'
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