Rabbit set to be world's biggest dies on United Airlines flight in fresh PR disaster

United Airlines has confirmed they are investigating reports that a giant rabbit died while travelling to Chicago on one of its transatlantic flight.

Simon, a three-foot continental rabbit, was reportedly travelling from Heathrow to Chicago’s O’Hare Airport after the 10-month old bunny was purchased by a celebrity owner.

But breeder Annette Edwards has now claimed that the animal was on course to grow even bigger than his father Darius – who became the world’s biggest rabbit after growing to 4ft 4 inches.

She told The Sun: ‘Something very strange has happened and I want to know what. I’ve sent rabbits all around the world and nothing like this has happened before.

‘The client who bought Simon is very famous. He’s upset.’

The controversy comes less than a month after shocking footage showed an elderly passenger being dragged from a flight after refusing to give up his seat.

Dr David Dao, 69, was seen with a bloodied face after being removed from the plane by Chicago airport officers who had been summoned by United.

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Confirming the death of the bunny, a United spokesperson said: ‘We were saddened to hear this news. The safety and wellbeing of all the animals that travel with us is of the utmost importance to United Airlines and our PetSafe team.

‘We have been in contact with our customer and have offered assistance. We are reviewing this matter.’