flying with pets
Pet Travel by Air |
Flying with Dogs & Cats Safely
Whether you’re relocating or traveling, PetRelocation.IN ensures a stress-free, safe air travel experience for your beloved pets. With certified handlers and comprehensive support, we take care of every detail – so you and your pet can fly with peace of mind.
Get a plane ticket for your pet
Our Pet Air Travel Services
At PetRelocation.IN, we offer two options for safe and comfortable pet travel by air, depending on your pet’s size, breed, and specific airline policies.
Traveling with Pets in Cabin
For smaller pets that meet specific size and weight restrictions, our experienced handler accompanies them in the cabin, ensuring their safety, comfort, and adherence to airline policies throughout the journey.
Traveling with Pets in Cargo Hold
Larger pets, including big dogs and certain breeds, are transported in the cargo hold, a temperature-controlled and pressurized area specifically designed to ensure their safety, comfort, and well-being during the flight.
6 Steps : Pet Relocation in the Cabin
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We discuss your pet’s suitability for in-cabin travel based on size and airline requirements.
Step 2: Health and Documentation Checks
Our team helps prepare all necessary health records and travel documents for in-cabin travel.
Step 3: Carrier Selection
We provide IATA-approved in-cabin carriers for a secure and comfortable journey.
Step 4: Travel Day Support
Your pet is accompanied by our experienced handler, who attends to their needs during the flight.
Step 5: In-Cabin Travel
The handler ensures your pet remains calm, comfortable, and well-cared for throughout the flight.
Step 6: Arrival and Reunification
Upon reaching the destination, our handler ensures a smooth handover of your pet to you.
6 Steps : Pet Relocation in the Cargo Hold
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We assess your pet’s size, breed, and specific travel requirements to determine the best carrier and prepare for cargo travel.
Step 2: Health and Documentation Checks
We assist with obtaining health certificates, vaccinations, and airline-specific documentation.
Step 3: Carrier Preparation
An IATA-compliant carrier is selected to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during the flight.
Step 4: Pre-Flight Care
Our handlers provide food, water, and calming support before check-in.
Step 5: Cargo Check-In and Monitoring
Our team ensures your pet is safely loaded into the temperature-controlled, pressurized cargo hold.
Step 6: Arrival and Reunification
We coordinate with the airline for a smooth handover of your pet upon arrival.
Air India Pet Travel Overview
I. Cabin / Check-in (Accompanied Pet Travel)
In this option, your pet travels under the care of our experienced handler, who accompanies them on the same flight, ensuring they receive the highest level of attention and care.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Domesticated dogs and cats are eligible to travel in the passenger cabin or as checked-in baggage in the cargo hold, subject to approval by the flight commander.
- Pets must be at least 8 weeks old for cabin travel and 3 months old for the cargo hold.
- Pregnant pets are not allowed to travel for safety reasons.
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds are not permitted in the cargo hold due to health risks.
- Travel arrangements depend on the combined weight of the pet and their carrier:
- Cabin Travel: Allowed if the total weight does not exceed 7 kg (15 lbs).
- Checked-In Baggage (Cargo Hold): Permitted for weights between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 32 kg (70 lbs).
- Cargo Travel: Required for pets and carriers weighing over 32 kg (70 lbs).
II. Cargo Pet Travel (Unaccompanied Pet Travel)
This option allows pets to travel independently through Air India’s Live Animal Transport Program. Unlike cabin travel, it accommodates a wider variety of animals beyond just domesticated cats and dogs.
Key Points:
- Pets of all sizes and weights are eligible to travel using this service.
- The program supports the transportation of various animals, including dogs, cats, birds, amphibians, and even day-old chicks.
- All animals must be transported in compliance with IATA’s Program and Policies.
Akasa Air Pet Travel Overview
Cabin/Check-in (Accompanied Pet Travel)
With this option, pets travel under the supervision of our professional handler, ensuring a safe and stress-free journey on Akasa Air flights.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Only domesticated dogs and cats are allowed to travel on Akasa Air.
- Pets must be at least 3 months old to qualify for travel.
- Pregnant pets are not permitted to fly for safety reasons.
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds cannot be transported in the cargo hold to ensure their well-being.
Travel Options for Pets on Akasa Air:
- In-Cabin: Suitable for pets weighing up to 10 kg, including their carrier.
- Checked-In at the Airport: For pets and carriers with a combined weight of up to 32 kg.
- Cargo Terminal: Ideal for larger pets and carriers, accommodating weights up to 100 kg.
Note: The cargo terminal travel option is similar to Air India’s Unaccompanied Pet Travel service, where a separate booking is made for the pet to travel alone without an accompanying handler or passenger.
Flights for Pets
Airlines that allow Pets to Fly in India
Traveling with your pet by air in India is made easier with airlines like Air India and Akasa Air, which offer pet-friendly policies. Understanding their rules and regulations ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey for your furry friends.
Restricted Pet Breeds for Cargo Travel
Brachycephalic Animal Breeds
For the safety and well-being of pets, certain breeds are not permitted to travel in the cargo hold due to health risks associated with their unique physiology. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds are more prone to respiratory issues in low-pressure environments. Therefore, airlines restrict the cargo travel of these breeds to ensure their safety during flights.
Dogs:
- Pug
- Boxer
- Boston Terrier
- French Bulldog
- Bulldog
- Brussels Griffon
- English Toy Spniel
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Bull Mastiff
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Sher-Pei
- Cane Corso
- Afffenpinscher
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Japanese Chin
- Chihuahua
- Tibetan Spaniel
- American Cocker Spaniel
- Shih Tzu
- Pekingese
- Lhasa Apso
- Dogue de Bordeaux
- Chow Chow
- St. Bernard
Cats:
- Persian
- Exotic Shorthair
- Himalayan
- Scottish Fold
- Burmese
- British Shorthair
Rabbits:
- Netherland Dwarf Rabbit
- Lops (Miniature, Dwarf and French)
- Lion Head Rabbit
* This list may vary based on airline policies. Please consult with our team for specific airline guidelines regarding restricted breeds.
What If Your Pet is a Restricted Breed?
If your dog or cat is brachycephalic (flat-faced) and restricted from traveling in the cargo hold, there are still options to ensure a safe and comfortable journey:
In-Cabin Travel:
- For Air India: Pets weighing up to 7 kg (including the carrier) can travel in the cabin.
- For Akasa Air: Pets weighing up to 10 kg (including the carrier) can travel in the cabin.
Alternative Travel Options:
- By Train: We specialize in arranging pet-friendly train journeys. Learn more..
- By Road: Our pet taxi services provide a comfortable and stress-free travel experience. Learn more..
- Let us help you choose the best travel option for your pet, ensuring their safety and your peace of mind.
Airline Compliant Pet Carriers for dog travel in Cargo
IATA-Approved Crates for Safe Pet Travel
Why Choose IATA-Approved Carriers?
Using IATA-compliant crates is essential for ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort during air travel. These carriers meet international standards, ensuring your pet is secure while adhering to airline regulations.
Choosing the right pet carrier depends on various factors like Pet type ( Dog, Cat etc. ), Breed, Size, mode of travel and other travel requirements. Know more about these on our dedicated page Pet Carrier Guide.
Book Your Pet’s Next Air Journey with Us!
Let Us Handle Your Pet’s Air Travel with Care and Expertise
Ready to make your pet’s air travel experience as comfortable as possible? Contact PetRelocation.IN to learn more about our trusted pet air travel services and get a customized travel plan today!
FAQ'S
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Travel by Air
Which airlines in India allow pets?
For domestic travel within India, Air India and Akasa Air currently allow pets onboard. However, their pet travel policies differ. Learn more about flying with pets in India on this page for detailed guidelines and options.
Does IndiGo allow pets on their flights?
Currently, IndiGo does not allow pets to travel on their flights, as they do not have a pet policy in place. However, service dogs are an exception and can travel with specially-abled passengers. To arrange this, passengers must contact IndiGo’s customer support at 0124 617 3838.
Does Vistara allow pets on their flights?
Does SpiceJet allow pets on their flights?
No, SpiceJet does not allow pets onboard their passenger flights. However, you can transport pets on domestic routes through a separate cargo booking, arranged directly via their cargo office.
How can pets fly in the cabin?
Air India and Akasa Air have distinct policies for in-cabin pet travel:
- Air India: Pets must be in a soft, ventilated bag or kennel with maximum dimensions of 18″ L x 18″ W x 12″ H, and the combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 7 kg.
- Akasa Air: The pet carrier should not exceed 19” L x 12.6” W x 10” H. The carrier must allow the pet to stand, turn around, or lie down comfortably, with a combined weight limit of 10 kg for the pet and container.
What documents are required for air travel with pets?
The following documents are required for pet air travel:
- Valid vaccination record.
- Original health certificate signed and stamped by a veterinarian, stating the pet is fit to travel by air.
- Original certificate confirming the pet has been inoculated for rabies by a registered vet.
- Two signed copies of the indemnity/declaration form filled out by the owner.
Does Air India allow birds to be shipped by cargo?
Yes, Air India permits the shipment of most bird breeds by cargo. However, avian species listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) are not allowed to be shipped. For more details, contact our team.
Can my dog sit on my lap during the flight, or can I book an extra seat for my pet?
No, airlines do not allow pets to be taken out of their carriers during the flight, ensuring the safety and privacy of other passengers. Additionally, you cannot book an extra seat for your pet. Typically, passengers traveling with pets are assigned seats in the last row of the plane and are required to board before other passengers.
Is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo?
Yes, it is generally safe for dogs to fly in the cargo hold, as airlines use temperature-controlled, pressurized compartments. However, it’s essential to use an IATA-approved crate and ensure your dog is healthy for travel. Certain breeds, like flat-faced dogs, may not be allowed..
Is it safe for dogs to fly in the cabin?
Yes, flying in the cabin is safe for dogs, especially small breeds. They remain close to the handler in a secure, ventilated carrier, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the flight. Cabin travel is ideal for pets prone to stress or health concerns.
How are a dog’s bathroom needs managed during a flight?
Our pet handlers ensure that dogs are walked and given ample time to relieve themselves before boarding the flight. Additionally, an absorbent mat is placed inside the crate to keep the pet comfortable in case they need to pee during the journey. This ensures cleanliness and reduces any discomfort for the pet.
Should I sedate my dog for air travel?
No, it is not recommended to sedate your dog for air travel. Sedation can interfere with your dog’s ability to regulate body temperature and maintain balance, which may pose health risks, especially during altitude changes. Instead, consult your veterinarian for safe alternatives to help keep your dog calm and stress-free during the journey.
How much does it cost to travel with a pet by air?
The cost of traveling with a pet by air depends on the airline, the pet’s size and weight, and whether they travel in the cabin or cargo. Airlines typically charge based on the combined weight of the pet and their carrier. For domestic flights in India, charges can range from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 or more. Contact us for a detailed estimate tailored to your pet’s travel needs.
