The ARK, located at JFK airport, is a terminal specifically designed for the reception and handling of animals, ensuring their safe passage. Since 2017, this facility has been providing the JFK community with round-the-clock access to the airside, ensuring a seamless transition for all arriving and departing animals, regardless of their size.
Upon their arrival at The ARK, they receive specific accommodations that are developed for the state-of-the-art and top-class world of art. Traveling with animals and horses from foreign countries definitely becomes more complicated. There are many intricate aspects involved in moving parts. Animal travel is indeed more complicated, and there are numerous moving parts involved when traveling with passengers. The ARK works closely with its local and federal partners, including PANYNJ, CBP, USFWS, CDC, and USDA, to provide such a critical service.
The facility at JFK Airport provides accommodations and assistance for animals working with Border Customs and Transportation Security Administration in the protection of K-9 animals. They have onsite veterinarians who are USDA-accredited to provide travel certifications for any pets or animals that may require support. After recently completing its CEIV IATA certification, The ARK ensures that they undergo an exhaustive auditing and application process to guarantee the provision of top-notch services for handling the animals.
ARK’s divisions, including The Aviary/In-Transit, Equine Import, Equine Export, and Pet Oasis, collaborate harmoniously to provide an exceptional experience for the animals, Pet Parents, stakeholders, airlines, and staff.
Elizabeth A. Schuette, President and CEO, is responsible for managing the day-to-day activities of the ARK, as well as overseeing functions such as Marketing, Public Relations Finance, interactions with regulatory stakeholders, and involvement with industry trade groups. Throughout the development process, Elizabeth A. Schuette played a vital role in creating staffing and operational strategies for The AKR at JFK. John J. Cuticelli, Jr., Founder and Chairman, constructed the entire facility, including Building 78B, which accommodates Worldwide Flight Services (“WFS”) cargo operations, and conceptualized, designed, and developed the project.
COO Mike Falacara joined the team at JFK airport’s cargo and handling ground with over 30 years of knowledge and experience in 2020. Ms. Schuette supports a talented team in the operations facility.
Promoted recently was Ms. Mejia, who started as an equine attendant caring for thousands of horses that come through the doors each year. Kiera Mejia has been at ARK since it opened, and she has now been promoted to the position of Marketing and Sales Director.
Kiera is the main subject of this month’s Fast Five interview located on page 5.
Alyssa Burke holds the position of Director of Operations and Logistics at ARK. She is in charge of managing the day-to-day activities at The ARK. This involves supervising the successful execution of the daily transportation of horses to and from the facility, organizing all terrestrial movements, and guaranteeing adherence to the guidelines and regulations set by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, U.S. Customs Border and Protection, and other Federal collaborators. Alyssa brings with her a wealth of experience in Human Resources and business administration, gained during her tenure at one of the biggest ground handling companies at JFK.
In the midst of a potential period of stress, Pet Owners can find solace in the fact that Chris is there to support them. With a dedication to following federal regulations, airline guidelines, quarantine protocols, international policies, scheduling requirements, certifications, and other intricate details, Chris Lapkowski, the Customer Experience Manager, brings his expertise to help Pet Owners plan their cherished companion animals’ travel. Starting off as an animal attendant, Chris has climbed the ranks to provide assistance to Pet Owners in this role.
Sara, the compassionate leader, ensures that the animals traveling through JFK are safe and free from stress. She started volunteering at local animal shelters when she was young, and her love for animals led her to take care of her own pets, Fido and Fluffy. Sara is now the Animal Supervisory Attendant at Oasis Pet ARK.
When considering The ARK at JFK, it is indeed a nod to the biblical terms to consider what is happening.