Romance takes flight!

In a heartwarming twist, an elderly canine companion, battling epilepsy and a slight heart murmur, becomes an unexpected matchmaker, prompting his owner’s journey across the Atlantic Ocean in search of love.

Adri Pendleton, a 29-year-old from California, finds herself relocating from Amsterdam to the US after her six-year relationship with her Dutch partner ends. However, her beloved border collie, Nelly, poses a travel challenge due to her size, leading Pendleton on a quest to find a solution that keeps her furry friend by her side.

Following careful consideration, Pendleton concluded that the sole solution to reunite with her 15-year-old dog in the US was to arrange a private charter flight.
Her heartfelt plea resonated with Niklas Stoeterau, a 26-year-old German pilot, who was deeply moved by her story.

Stoeterau, residing in Hamburg at the time, recognized the opportunity to assist in Nelly’s journey to New Jersey as his job afforded him the privilege of offering discounted rates for guests on his flights.

Initially hesitant, Pendleton was unsure whether the stranger’s intentions were genuine or opportunistic given her circumstances. However, over nearly two months of texting, they meticulously planned the travel arrangements before finally meeting at a Milan airport around 1 a.m.

During the ensuing 15-hour journey, including a layover, Pendleton and Stoeterau bonded further, engaging in easy conversation and discovering a mutual connection. Surprisingly, Nelly, the dog, also warmed up to the pilot.

Their encounter left a lasting impression, prompting Pendleton to extend an invitation for Stoeterau to visit California. Recognizing their mutual interest, Stoeterau gladly accepted.

Their relationship flourished despite the distance, with Stoeterau meeting Pendleton’s family by March, and they have remained together ever since.