U.S. Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Block Airlines from Transporting Smuggled Fighting Birds
Event summary
- H.R. 7371, the No Flight, No Fight Act, introduced on February 5, 2026, aims to halt the transport of fighting birds from the U.S. to overseas derbies.
- The bill is led by Reps. Troy Nehls (R-Texas) and Dina Titus (D-Nev.) and has bipartisan support in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
- Animal Wellness Action uncovered an illegal smuggling ring shipping birds on Korean Airlines to the Philippines, violating U.S. law.
- The legislation includes exemptions for registered agricultural businesses but restricts air shipment of adult roosters used in cockfighting.
The big picture
The No Flight, No Fight Act targets a niche but lucrative illegal trade tied to organized crime and animal cruelty. By restricting air transport of fighting birds, the legislation aims to disrupt a global enterprise worth billions in gambling revenue. The bill complements existing efforts like the FIGHT Act, reflecting growing bipartisan support for stricter enforcement against animal fighting.
What we're watching
- Regulatory Enforcement
- Whether airlines will comply with the new restrictions and how strictly enforcement agencies will monitor compliance.
- Industry Impact
- How this legislation affects the logistics of illegal cockfighting operations and the potential shift to alternative transport methods.
- Public Health Concerns
- The role of fighting birds in spreading diseases like H5N1 and whether this bill will help mitigate such risks.
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