Can pets travel in airplane cabins internationally?
Written by
Robert Brown
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.Most international airlines permit pets in the cabin, subject to strict regulations. The pet must meet the size/weight requirements. Airlines require early booking of limited cabin space. Documentation varies according to the country of destination. Breed restrictions apply. Check airlines and their requirements before planning trips.
Weight limits are important for cabin approval. A carrier accommodating a pet must weigh under 8kg (17.6 lb) in total weight. Soft-sided carriers cannot exceed the maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 23cm. Hard kennels are prohibited in cabins. (Pets must stay in the carrier through the flight.) Airlines check the dimensions of the carriers at the check-in counter.
Documentation
- Country specific health certificates within 10 days of travel
- Rabies vaccination records meeting validity periods
- Microchip documentation matching identification papers
- Entry permits for destination countries
- Airline reservation confirmations with fee payment
Carrier Specifications
- Soft sided fabric carriers only
- Waterproof bases with absorbent liners
- Mesh ventilation panels on three sides
- Secure zipper closures with double stitching
- Owner identification tags on exterior handles
Pre-Flight Preparation
- Carrier training sessions weeks before departure
- Veterinary health clearance examinations
- Fasting four hours before flights
- Comfort items like familiar blankets
- Practice security screening procedures
Breed restrictions affect many transcontinental routes as the airlines will not carry "snub nosed" breeds such as bulldogs as cargo on transcontinental flights. Some airlines refuse to transport any pit bull whatsoever. These restrictions on breeds apply irrespective of whether the animal travels in the cabin or in the hold. Check the breed-specific rules of the airline before purchasing the ticket.
When preparing documents for travel, it is crucial to pay attention to country-specific variations. When traveling to an EU destination, a pet passport with a vaccination history is required. The UK requires tapeworm treatment certificates. For travel to Australia, 180 days of planning are required before departure. Always obtain documents with a certified translation when needed.
Pre-flight routines can help your pet stay calmer during travel. Train them in the carrier for longer periods each time. Take along familiar toys infused with home scents. Give bathroom breaks before the flight. Please don't feed them four hours before arrival. This makes for a better experience when traveling by plane.
Read the full article: Flying with Pets: Essential Guide for Safe Travel
