Southwest Airlines helped animal charities to fly pets that were caught in the devastating Hawaii fires to new homes.

The carrier partnered with Greater Good Charities, Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, and the Maui Humane Society on an emergency airlift to move 136 shelter cats and dogs from Kahului, Maui, to Portland, Oregon on Friday, August 18.

The airlift was in response to the wildfires that have been devastating Maui in recent weeks. The fires have destroyed homes and businesses, and have displaced many people and pets. The airlift helped to free up space in the Maui shelters for the animals that have been affected by the fires.

The animals were transported in secure carriers and crates in the aircraft cabin of a Boeing 737-800. A licensed veterinarian accompanied the flight to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals.

Once in Portland, the animals will be evaluated and receive any necessary medical care before being put up for adoption. They will be available for adoption through the Greater Good Charities network of shelters.

'Our hearts are with the people of Hawaii and the communities that are affected by the wildfires,' said Laura Nieto, Managing Director Corporate Responsibility at Southwest Airlines.

'In addition to supporting local and national relief organizations to bring aid to Maui, Southwest and our employees have put our hearts into action to join this effort to transport shelter cats and dogs in-cabin to the mainland in hopes of finding forever homes.'

The airlift is part of Southwest Airlines' ongoing commitment to supporting the communities it serves. The airline has a long history of providing assistance to those in need, including during natural disasters.

'We are grateful to Southwest Airlines for their generous support of this important mission,' said Cindy Pauwels, Executive Director of the Maui Humane Society.

'This airlift will help us to free up space in our shelters so that we can continue to care for the animals that have been affected by the wildfires.'