Travelling with Pets on a Plane: Everything You Need to Know

Flying with your pet can feel complicated. With ever-changing regulations, health requirements, and transport logistics, many pet owners wonder: how can I properly prepare for flying with a pet (cats, dogs, etc.)?

At Air Transport Animal, we put our expertise at your service to give you peace of mind. In this article, we guide you step by step through the procedures, regulations, and best practices for flying safely and smoothly with your pet — whether they travel in the cabin or in the cargo hold.

What Are the Requirements for Flying with Pets?

The rules for travelling with pets on a plane vary widely depending on the airline, as well as the departure and destination countries. It is therefore essential to check all specific requirements carefully before booking your tickets.

However, certain regulations are common across most carriers. For instance, most airlines require a minimum age (at least 12 to 15 weeks old), for your pet to be healthy and follow certain health and vaccine requirements (especially rabies).

Depending on your destination, you may also need a veterinary health certificate and/or a pet passport, along with microchip identification. Some government regulations may also impose blood tests, quarantine periods, or parasite treatments as entry requirements.

There are generally two recognized transport methods when traveling with pets on a plane : as excess baggage or via air freight. Each option involves specific conditions, outlined below:

Transport as excess or checked baggage is an option offered directly by airlines, that allows your pet to travel in the cabin or in the hold, depending on its size and weight. It is directly linked to the passenger’s ticket:

The departure takes place from the passenger terminal, at the check-in counter.
The pet’s transport is considered an additional service to the flight ticket, similar to extra luggage.
It is charged per item, according to the airline’s passenger rate schedule.

Transport as air freight (cargo) is a completely separate service, similar to purchasing a dedicated flight ticket for the animal only:

The departure is from the cargo terminal (not the passenger terminal).
This method involves specific registration procedures, including strict checks of documents, transport crates, and mandatory customs declarations before departure.
The price is calculated based not on the animal’s actual weight, but on the volumetric weight of the crate (combined size and weight).
Due to the sensitive nature of this type of transport, airlines apply higher freight rates, which are generally more expensive.

Can You Bring Your Pet with You in the Cabin?

Only certain animals are allowed in the cabin—primarily cats and dogs. Even then, strict rules apply.

Most airlines allow pets in the cabin only if the combined weight of the animal and its soft-sided travel bag does not exceed 8 kg. The animal must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier, which must fit beneath the seat in front of you. Maximum dimensions for the pet carrier are also tightly regulated—typically around 45 x 30 x 20 cm, though exact measurements may vary depending on the airline.

The animal’s behavior is also a key factor. Pets must remain calm, quiet, and must not pose a disturbance or safety risk to other passengers.

Exotic pets such as rabbits, ferrets, birds, or reptiles are generally not permitted to fly in the cabin.

It is important to note that some airlines prohibit pets in the cabin based on destination, regardless of size or weight. This is commonly the case for flights to countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, or New Zealand.

Special Cases and Restrictions You Should Know

While general policies are well defined, there are numerous exceptions and specific restrictions that travelers must be aware of when preparing to fly with a pet. These special cases may involve service animals, certain restricted breeds, or unconventional species such as exotic pets.

Flying with a Service Dog

Service dogs—including guide dogs for the visually impaired, alert dogs, or emotional support animals—are typically allowed to travel in the cabin under more flexible conditions. Most airlines permit their presence free of charge, provided that required documentation is presented. This may include a certificate from the training organization, a medical note from the passenger (if applicable), and in some cases, prior authorization from the airline.

We strongly recommend notifying the airline well in advance to ensure all documents meet requirements and that space is available on board.

Restricted or Disallowed Breeds

Certain dog and cat breeds are subject to strict regulations or may even be banned entirely from air transport, primarily due to safety or animal health concerns.

Brachycephalic Breeds

Brachycephalic breeds – i.e. pets with flat or short snouts, such as French bulldogs, pugs, shih tzus, or Persian cats—are particularly sensitive to respiratory issues during flights. As a result, many airlines prohibit these breeds from traveling in the cargo hold or impose specific conditions (e.g., cabin transport only, restrictions during extreme temperatures, etc.).

It is essential to check each airline’s policy in advance if you plan to bring a brachycephalic pet on board of an aircraft.

Category 1 and 2 Dogs (Dangerous Dog Legislation)

In France and several other countries, Category 1 and 2 dogs—including breeds such as pit bulls, rottweilers, and mastiffs—are subject to very strict regulations. Their transport is sometimes completely banned, even if they are muzzled and sterilized. Some airlines may allow travel but will require additional documentation, such as a special permit, liability insurance, or reinforced travel crates.

Exotic Pets

The air transport of exotic pets—including rabbits, ferrets, reptiles, birds, and rodents—is generally not permitted. Some countries also prohibit the importation of these animals entirely or require specific authorizations.

If you plan to travel with an exotic pet, we highly recommend contacting both the airline and the destination country’s health authorities well in advance to ensure compliance with all requirements.

What Documents Do You Need to Travel with Pets on a Plane?

To ensure a smooth journey when flying with a pet, it is essential to prepare a complete set of documents in advance. These requirements can vary depending on the destination country, type of live animal, and airline, but several key documents are commonly required. Below is a list of the most frequent ones:

European Pet Passport (mandatory for travel within the European Union) or an up-to-date vaccination record
Veterinary certificate of good health, issued by an accredited veterinarian within a few days before departure (typically 5 to 10 days prior to the flight)
Rabies vaccination certificate, which is mandatory for most destinations (usually administered at least 21 days before travel)
Import permit or veterinary health form required by some countries (g., Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada)
IATA declaration form or a signed statement may also be required, particularly for pets flying cargo

At Air Transport Animal, we assist every client with compiling the correct documentation to avoid any issues during check-in at the airport or upon arrival. For further guidance on how to take a pet on a plane or to request a quote, please feel free to reach out to our team.

Which Airlines Let You Fly with Pets?

Not all airlines handle pet travel the same way. While some allow pets in the cabin or cargo hold under specific rules, others do not accept animals at all.

Airlines that allow pets onboard under certain conditions include:

Air France: Allows dogs and cats in the cabin up to 8 kg; also offers transport in the cargo hold
Lufthansa: Offers flexible options for various animals depending on size and weight
KLM: Provides transport in the cabin, cargo hold, or via freight depending on the circumstances
Iberia, Swiss, TAP Air Portugal, and United Airlines are also pet-friendly

On the other hand, some airlines do not accept pets onboard, whether in the cabin or the cargo hold. These include:

Ryanair
EasyJet
Wizz Air

Always double-check your chosen airline’s pet policy. When in doubt, it is best to consult a professional pet transportation service to ensure your companion’s safety and full compliance with international travel regulations.

How to Book a Plane Ticket for Your Pet?

The process for booking your pet’s travel will depend on the transport method you choose.

If your pet is flying as excess baggage, the reservation can usually be made directly with the airline when you book or manage your own flight. In this case, the pet transport will be considered an additional service tied to your passenger booking.

However, if your pet is flying via air freight, the booking must be made through a specialized freight forwarder or pet travel provider.

Need help booking your pet’s journey? Our team will explain the available options and manage the entire reservation process for you — from start to finish.

What Are the Fees for Pet Air Travel?

If you are planning to fly with your pet, it is important to understand that transportation costs can vary significantly based on several factors:

In the cabin: Airlines typically charge a supplement ranging from €30 to €125 per flight, depending on the carrier.
In the cargo hold: The fee to travel may range from €75 to €300, or more for long-haul flights.
By air freight (cargo): This option—often mandatory for larger animals or for travel to countries like Australia or the UK—is the most expensive. The cost is usually based on volumetric weight and starts at €500.

Additional costs may include:

Purchasing or renting an IATA-approved travel crate (ranging from €40 to over €200)
Veterinary fees for vaccinations and health certificates
Customs or import charges, depending on the destination
Logistics and coordination services, if applicable

At Air Transport Animal, we offer customized, transparent services designed to optimize your costs while ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort.

Request a quote

How to Prepare Your Pet for a Flight?

A well-prepared pet will travel more calmly and securely. Here are some essential tips to help get your companion ready for the journey:

Familiarize your pet with the travel crate well in advance—ideally days or even weeks before departure. Keep the crate open at home, add toys or a blanket, and encourage your pet to enter it voluntarily.
On the day of travel, make sure your pet gets some exercise and food at least four hours before the flight (no later, to avoid nausea).
Label the crate clearly with the pet’s name, your contact details, and flight information.
Avoid sedatives unless explicitly prescribed by a veterinarian, as they may cause breathing complications at altitude.
Include absorbent padding, a small familiar toy, or an item of clothing that carries your scent to help comfort your pet during the journey.

With the right preparation, travelling with pets by plane can be a safe and stress-free experience—for both of you. At Air Transport Animal, we are here to support every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Pets Are Allowed on International Flights?

Most airlines allow domesticated cats and dogs on international flights, provided they meet the airline’s and destination country’s health and transport requirements. Some airlines also allow other small mammals such as rabbits or hamsters, and occasionally birds, but these cases are less common and subject to strict approval.

However, certain species like reptiles, amphibians, ferrets, and rodents may not be accepted at all, or may require special permits or quarantine upon arrival. Countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom have particularly stringent regulations regarding the importation of animals, often requiring pets to travel only via approved air freight routes and to undergo quarantine upon entry.

Do Airlines Require a Specific Type of Carrier to Take a Pet on a Plane?

For cabin travel, the carrier must typically fit under the seat in front of you, with maximum dimensions around 45 x 30 x 20 cm, though this can vary by airline.

For cargo travel, airlines require that pets be transported in pet carriers approved by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), compliant with international safety standards. The carrier must be well-ventilated, securely fastened, and spacious enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Labeling the crate with the pet’s name, your contact details, and the flight number is also mandatory. Some airlines may provide a checklist for verifying that your crate meets their standards.

Do Airlines Require Any Special Health Requirements to Travel with Pets on a Plane?

Yes, all airlines and destination countries impose strict health requirements for pet travel. These typically include:

A valid rabies vaccination certificate often administered at least 21 days prior to travel.
A veterinary health certificate, usually issued within 5 to 10 days before departure.
A microchip for identification, which must match the ID number on all health documents.
An import permit or customs declaration may also be required depending on the country.

Some countries, like Japan, Australia, and the UK, also demand blood tests to confirm rabies antibody levels, along with quarantine periods and parasite treatments. Failing to meet these requirements may result in denied boarding, refusal of entry, or quarantine at the owner’s expense.

My Trip Includes Layovers: What Should I Do?

If your itinerary includes layovers, it is important to confirm whether your pet will stay in transit or need to be rechecked. Some countries may require additional paperwork or health checks during stopovers. Always choose airlines that offer smooth transfer procedures for animals, and ensure your pet is comfortable during longer waiting periods.

How to Travel Safely with Pets in the Cargo Hold?

Traveling in the cargo hold can be safe if you prepare properly. Choose a well-ventilated IATA-approved crate, label it clearly, and add absorbent bedding. Avoid sedatives unless prescribed and make sure your pet is healthy enough for the journey. Direct flights are preferable, and it’s essential to track weather conditions to avoid extreme temperatures.