Traveling with pets can be a daunting task, especially for international trips. Thankfully, many airlines around the world have policies to ensure your furry, feathered, or scaled friends can accompany you in the cabin. This guide delves into the details of international airlines that allow pets on board, their specific rules, costs, and additional tips to make your pet’s journey safe and comfortable.
1. Lufthansa (Germany)
Lufthansa is known for its pet-friendly policies. Small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin as long as they meet the weight and size requirements. Pets must be placed in a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
- Requirements: The pet and carrier together must not exceed 8kg (17.6 lbs). The carrier dimensions should be 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in).
- Fees: Cabin fees vary by destination. For example, €55-€80 for short-haul flights and €100-€110 for long-haul flights.
- Additional Information: Lufthansa also offers a pet lounge in Frankfurt and services for larger pets in cargo.
Visit Lufthansa’s Pet Policy Page
2. Air France (France)
Air France allows pets to travel in the cabin, provided they meet the weight limits and other requirements. They also have specific guidelines for snub-nosed breeds due to potential breathing difficulties.
- Requirements: Maximum combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 8kg (17.6 lbs). The carrier must be leakproof and well-ventilated.
- Fees: €40 for domestic flights, €125 for flights between Europe and other continents.
- Additional Information: Pets are not allowed in business class on intercontinental flights.
Read More on Air France’s Pet Policy
3. Delta Airlines (USA)
Delta is a popular choice for pet owners flying internationally. They allow cats, small dogs, and household birds on board for most routes.
- Requirements: Pets must be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel under the seat in front of you. Specific carrier dimensions depend on your flight’s aircraft.
- Fees: $75 for flights within the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico; $200 for international flights; $125 for flights to/from Brazil.
- Additional Information: Delta has a comprehensive checklist for ensuring your pet meets entry requirements for your destination country.
Learn More About Delta’s Pet Travel
4. Emirates (UAE)
Emirates permits falcons in the cabin on certain flights, which is unique to the airline’s service in the Middle East. Cats, dogs, and other pets must travel as cargo unless they are assistance animals.
- Requirements: Assistance animals are permitted in the cabin, but most pets must be transported as cargo due to strict UAE regulations.
- Fees: Vary based on the size and weight of the pet and kennel.
- Additional Information: Emirates offers customized services for pet travel via Emirates SkyCargo.
Explore Emirates’ Pet Guidelines
5. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Netherlands)
KLM is highly accommodating to passengers traveling with pets. Small cats and dogs can travel in the cabin, while larger pets must go as checked baggage or cargo.
- Requirements: The pet and carrier together should not exceed 8kg (17.6 lbs). The carrier must fit under the seat and meet specific size requirements.
- Fees: €75 for European flights and €200 for intercontinental routes.
- Additional Information: KLM offers an Animal Hotel at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport for pets with long layovers.
6. Turkish Airlines (Turkey)
Turkish Airlines welcomes small pets in the cabin, provided they meet size and weight limitations.
- Requirements: Combined weight of pet and carrier must not exceed 8kg. The carrier must not exceed 23 x 30 x 40 cm in size.
- Fees: $70-$150, depending on the destination.
- Additional Information: Turkish Airlines requires advance reservation for pets traveling in the cabin.
See Turkish Airlines’ Pet Policy
7. Japan Airlines (Japan)
Japan Airlines is ideal for travelers heading to Asia. The airline allows small pets in the cabin on select flights.
- Requirements: Pets and carriers must weigh under 8kg. The carrier must meet standard size requirements to fit under the seat.
- Fees: Approximately $50-$150 depending on the route.
- Additional Information: Strict regulations apply for pet quarantine in Japan, so pre-arrangements are essential.
Visit Japan Airlines’ Pet Policy
8. Qatar Airways (Qatar)
Qatar Airways allows small pets in the cabin, but the majority travel as cargo due to strict international regulations.
- Requirements: Pets in the cabin must weigh less than 7kg (15.4 lbs) with their carrier. Assistance dogs are allowed free of charge.
- Fees: Prices vary depending on the route and weight.
- Additional Information: Qatar Airways ensures pet safety through temperature-controlled cargo holds.
Learn More About Qatar Airways’ Pet Travel
Tips for Flying With Pets Internationally
- Health Certificates: Ensure your pet has the required health certificates and vaccinations for both the airline and destination country.
- Booking in Advance: Airlines have limited space for pets in the cabin, so booking early is essential.
- Pet-Friendly Airports: Research airports with pet relief areas and other pet services for layovers.
- Check Country Regulations: Some countries require pets to undergo quarantine or meet strict health guidelines upon arrival.