Have you ever heard about travelling with your pet in-cabin? Flying with pets is becoming increasingly popular, both short- and long haul. Whether it’s for relocation or holidays, we often hear pet parents’ concerns about whether they can bring their furry friends onboard in the cabin. If you are one of them, the answer is often yes—but under certain conditions.
In this blog post we will go over the popular flight method of bringing pets along as carry-on in the cabin, doing our best to cover everything from airline policies to international travel considerations, so you can make sure your experience travelling with your pet in-cabin is as comfortable as possible.
Travelling with your pet in cabin: Understanding airline policies
Before travelling with your pet in-cabin, some of the most important things to do is verify the size and weight of your pet, as well as the dimensions of the travel carrier.
Airlines typically have strict limits, with the combined weight of the pet and carrier often varying between 6 to 8 kilograms (13-17 pounds) and a suitable size to fit under the seat in front of you.
The exact dimensions vary from one airline to another. Soft-sided carriers are a popular choice for in-cabin travel since they allow for good ventilation, flexibility especially for the height, and lightweight.
It’s also worth noting that some airlines have restrictions in place for certain breeds, especially brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds, due to their increased risk of breathing issues during flights.
Travelling with your pet in cabin: Booking your pet on your flight
Due to airline limitations regarding the number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight, it’s a good idea to book your pet onboard as soon as possible. This is especially important since availability is often assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Be prepared to pay an additional fee for this service, ranging from $50 to over $1.500 depending on the airline and flight route.
Travelling with your pet in cabin: Health and documentation requirements
Before flying, make sure your pet is in good health to travel and that you have the required documentation. Airlines will follow the import requirements of the destination country, and in some cases also the country where you will be doing your layover.
In addition to those requirements, the airlines may request additional documentation to allow your pet to board. Work with your veterinarian and pet travel agent to make sure your pet meets all the import and transit requirements, and always double-, triple-check the airline requirements to avoid surprises at the airport.
Travelling with your pet in cabin: Preparing your pet for travel
Making sure your pet feels comfortable during the flight is key preparation.
Your pet should feel comfortable staying inside the carrier for long stretches of time, so start your crate training well in advance of your trip by allowing them to explore and spend time in the carrier. This will help reduce anxiety on the day of travel.
Engaging your pet in exercise or play before the flight can also help expend energy, making them more likely to rest during the journey.
Feed your pet no later than 5 hours before flight. Water can be given anytime before departure and also during flight.
We do not recommend that you sedate your pet before air travel, since this can interfere with their breathing; consult your veterinarian for alternative methods to keep your pet calm if needed.
Travelling with your pet in cabin: At the airport and during flight
At most airports, you will need to take your pet out of the carrier at the security checkpoint while the carrier itself is x-rayed.
Bring along a harness or leash to avoid them escaping and getting lost. It will also be useful to let them relieve themselves before takeoff and during layovers.
Once on board, your pet will need to stay in the carrier under the seat in front of you for the entire flight. While it might be tempting to let them out for comfort, remember that this rule has been put in place for the safety and well-being of both your pet, yourself and other passengers.
You will be allowed to bring your pet to the toilet where it can relieve itself on a pee pad and stretch out a bit.
Travelling with your pet in cabin: Alternatives for larger pets
If your pet doesn’t fit the size or weight limits for in-cabin travel and you don’t want them to travel in the cargo hold, there are a few airlines that have specialized in pet travel and that allow for larger pets to travel in-cabin, for example BARK Air and La Compagnie.
You can also look into the option of flying private, either by renting your own private jet, an empty seat on a pet friendly jet, or going with a company like K9 Jets that offers pre-set routes and dates.
Final thoughts
Travelling with your pet in-cabin can be a happy and rewarding experience with the right preparation.
Always consult with your veterinarian before taking off to make sure your pet is healthy and well-suited to fly. By checking airline policies, preparing necessary documentation, and taking steps to keep your pet comfortable, you can look forward to a safe and enjoyable trip together.
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