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Flying with a brachycephalic dog: which airlines still allow snub-nosed breeds in 2026

Last updated: June 2026 · 7 min read

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Quick answer
Most airlines banned brachycephalic breeds from the cargo hold years ago. Cabin travel for small snub-nosed dogs remains available on several carriers. For larger flat-faced dogs, a small number of airlines accept them in cargo under specific temperature and crate conditions.
Why the restrictions exist.

Approximately half of all dog deaths in airline cargo over a five-year period involved brachycephalic breeds, according to US DOT data. The combination of stress, compressed airways, and cargo hold conditions creates elevated respiratory risk for flat-faced breeds.

Cargo hold: airlines that refuse snub-nosed breeds

UA
United Airlines
Cargo: refusedCabin: accepted
Brachycephalic breeds banned from PetSafe cargo on all routes. Small snub-nosed dogs may travel in the cabin if they fit in an approved carrier under the seat.
AA
American Airlines
Cargo: refusedCabin: accepted
Banned from checked and cargo hold travel. Cabin travel allowed for small snub-nosed breeds in an approved carrier.
DL
Delta Airlines
Cargo: refusedCabin: accepted
Similar restrictions to other US carriers. Cabin travel possible for small breeds.
KL
KLM
Cargo: refusedCabin: accepted (under 8 kg)
Flat-faced breeds not accepted as checked baggage. Cabin travel possible for small dogs under 8 kg combined.
AF
Air France
Cargo: restrictedCabin: accepted (under 8 kg)
Flat-faced breeds face restrictions in the hold. Cabin travel possible for small dogs.

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Cargo hold: conditional acceptance

LH
Lufthansa
Cargo via Lufthansa CargoTemp below 27C required
Snub-nosed breeds accepted via Lufthansa Cargo if temperatures at origin and destination are below 27 degrees C. Crate one size larger than standard required. Health certificate confirming fitness to fly required.
TK
Turkish Airlines
Cargo via Turkish CargoTemp below 27C required
Brachycephalic breeds accepted via Turkish Cargo. Larger crate required. Temperature must be below 27 degrees C. Owner must provide a letter acknowledging the risks.
QF
Qantas
Cargo: specialist booking only
Snub-nosed dogs accepted as cargo when booked through an approved pet travel specialist. Restrictions vary by airport and season.

Cabin travel: the safer option

LH
Lufthansa
Cabin: yesUnder 8 kgSome routes excluded
Snub-nosed breeds accepted in the cabin if under 8 kg combined. Not available to UK, Ireland, UAE, or Bangalore.
TK
Turkish Airlines
Cabin: yesUnder 8 kgWide network
Snub-nosed breeds accepted in the cabin on international routes. Wide European departure network.
AF/KL
Air France, KLM
Cabin: yesUnder 8 kg
Small snub-nosed dogs in the cabin on most international routes under 8 kg combined.
UA
United Airlines
Cabin: yesNo published weight limit
No published weight limit for cabin pets. Snub-nosed breeds accepted if carrier fits under the seat.
AA
American Airlines
Cabin: yes
Small snub-nosed dogs accepted in the cabin. Carrier must fit under the seat and remain closed throughout the flight.
AS
Alaska Airlines
Cabin: yes
Brachycephalic breeds allowed in the cabin with standard size restrictions.
The weight problem for French Bulldogs.

French Bulldogs typically weigh 8 to 14 kg as adults. Most exceed the 8 kg combined cabin limit on European carriers. American carriers with no published weight limit are the most viable cabin option for larger French Bulldogs, but only on routes they serve.

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Frequently asked questions

Can a French Bulldog fly in the cabin internationally?

Yes, on some airlines, if the dog is under the weight limit. European carriers typically allow up to 8 kg combined. Some US carriers have no published weight limit. Confirm your specific route before booking.

Is it safe for a Pug to fly in cargo?

Most major airlines refuse snub-nosed breeds in cargo for safety reasons. Those that accept them require specific crate sizing, temperature conditions, and a vet fitness certificate. The risk depends on the individual dog's health, the route, and the season.

Which airline is best for flying a French Bulldog internationally?

For small French Bulldogs under 8 kg: Turkish Airlines has the widest international cabin network. For larger French Bulldogs that must travel cargo: Lufthansa Cargo with temperature confirmation during cooler months.

Do brachycephalic cats have the same restrictions?

Yes. Persian, Himalayan, Burmese, and Exotic Shorthair cats face similar cargo restrictions. Cabin travel is available for small flat-faced cats on the same carriers.

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