2Disclaimer: I do not own The Lord of the Rings.
Many people have wondered why the eagles didn't simply fly the Fellowship to Mordor. Here's my take on the answer.
Gandalf sat in the eagles' nests, speaking to Gwaihir. He had just explained the Fellowship of the Ring.
"So," Gandalf began. "I had a favor to ask of you."
"Speak on." said Gwaihir.
"Would you send some of your eagles to fly the Fellowship into Mordor to drop the One Ring into the pits of Mount Doom?" Gandalf asked.
Had Gwaihir been drinking, he would have spat the water out. "Fly this Fellowship of yours?"
Gandalf nodded.
"To Mordor?"
"Yes," said Gandalf.
"No! Absolutely not! Do we look like a taxi service?! I'll save you in a pinch, but this?! No," Gwaihir said, "I'll not send my eagles on a wild goose chase into Mordor."
"Ah," Gandalf said. "I see."
Many months later, just outside Mordor
"Well, it's a good thing that's ended." Gwaihir said.
"Indeed," Gandalf nodded, taking a deep drag on his pipe.
Gwaihir nodded.
"You know," Gandalf said.
"Yes?" Gwaihir said.
"This would have ended many months sooner had you carried the Fellowship to Mordor."
Gwaihir flew away.
