Flying with pets: airline rules and requirements (2026)
Airlines transport pets in the cabin or cargo hold, each with specific requirements for carriers, documents, and booking procedures.
This reference covers:
- • How airlines transport pets in the cabin and in the cargo hold
- • Which documents are commonly required
- • How carrier requirements differ between airlines
- • Which restrictions cause most pet travel issues
- • General booking procedures
Updated: January 2026 • Information sourced from official airline documentation
Quick summary (60-second overview)
- Cabin pet travel is permitted only when the animal fits in an approved carrier that fits under the seat.
- Pets exceeding cabin size limits must travel in the cargo hold in an IATA-compliant crate.
- Airlines require pet travel to be booked in advance due to limited capacity per flight.
- Health certificates and rabies vaccination are mandatory for most airline pet travel.
- Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds are restricted from cargo transport on many airlines.
- International travel requires country-specific import permits and documentation.
- Airline pet travel rules change frequently and may vary by aircraft, route, and destination.
Types of pet transport: cabin vs cargo
In-cabin pet travel
Airlines allow pets in the cabin only if the animal fits in an approved carrier under the seat. Size, weight, and carrier specifications are set by each airline.
- Generally limited to small dogs, cats, and some small animals
- Combined weight (pet + carrier) must meet airline limits
- Carrier must fit under the seat and allow pet to move comfortably
- Pet remains with you throughout the flight
Cargo hold and checked baggage
Larger pets travel in the pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo hold. Hard-sided, IATA-compliant crates are required; brachycephalic breeds face additional restrictions.
- Required for larger pets or when cabin is not permitted
- Temperature-controlled hold on most modern aircraft
- Some airlines have seasonal embargoes during extreme temperatures
- Brachycephalic breeds often restricted from cargo
Carrier requirements (what usually matters)
Pet carriers must meet airline-specified requirements for size, ventilation, and construction. The following factors are evaluated:
Size and fit
Pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally
Ventilation
Adequate airflow on at least two sides of the carrier
Leak-proof base
Absorbent liner or waterproof bottom required
Under-seat compatibility
For cabin travel, carrier must fit beneath the seat
Note: Exact carrier requirements vary by airline. Always verify dimensions and specifications with your specific carrier.
Documents required for pet travel
Veterinary passport or health record
Complete vaccination and medical history
Rabies vaccination certificate
Required for most international travel
Health certificate
Often required within 10 days of travel
Microchip documentation
Many countries require ISO-standard microchip
Import permits
Required by some countries; may take weeks to obtain
Requirements depend on destination country and species. Check country-specific import rules before travel.
In addition to pet-related documents, some destinations require an electronic visa for the passenger. Visa requirements depend on nationality and destination. You can check electronic visa requirements via evisafortravel.com.
Booking steps (checklist)
- 1
Review the airline's pet policy
Check cabin/cargo options, weight limits, and any breed restrictions
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Verify your pet type, size, and preferred travel mode are accepted
- 3
Reserve pet travel early
Airlines limit pets per flight, so book as soon as possible
- 4
Prepare an airline-compliant carrier
Ensure it meets size, ventilation, and material requirements
- 5
Visit a veterinarian
Obtain health certificate and verify vaccinations are current
- 6
Prepare for airport procedures
Arrive early, have documents ready, and follow check-in protocols
Common mistakes when flying with pets
Frequently asked questions
Can pets fly internationally?
Pets can fly internationally on most airlines. Requirements vary by destination and typically include vaccinations, health certificates, microchipping, and import permits. Some countries impose quarantine periods.
Are emotional support animals accepted on flights?
Emotional support animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized as a separate category by most airlines. ESAs are treated as regular pets and subject to standard policies, fees, and carrier requirements.
Are brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds allowed to fly?
Brachycephalic breeds are restricted or prohibited from cargo travel on many airlines due to respiratory risks. Some carriers allow them in cabin only; seasonal and temperature restrictions may also apply.
Can I buy an extra seat for my pet?
Extra seats for pets are not permitted on most airlines. Cabin pets must fit in an approved carrier under the seat. A small number of carriers offer premium cabin programs, but this remains uncommon.
What happens during long layovers?
Cabin pets remain with the passenger during layovers. Cargo pets are handled differently by each airport; some facilities have pet relief areas. Extended layovers may require additional arrangements.
How much does it cost to fly with a pet?
Cabin pet fees typically range from $50 to $200+ per flight segment. Cargo transport is more expensive and may include handling fees. Costs vary by airline, route, and pet size.
What is the weight limit for pets in cabin?
Weight limits include the pet plus carrier combined. Most airlines set this between 8–10 kg (17–22 lbs), though exact limits vary by carrier.
Do I need to notify the airline about my pet?
Advance notification is required by most airlines. Pet spots per flight are limited; some airlines require 24–72 hours notice, while others accept booking at the time of reservation.
Can two pets travel in one carrier?
Two small pets of the same species may share one carrier on some airlines if weight and size requirements are met. This policy varies and is not universally permitted.
What vaccinations are required for pet travel?
Rabies vaccination is required for most international travel. Additional vaccinations or titer tests may be required depending on the destination country and species.
Can puppies and kittens fly?
Pets must be at least 8–12 weeks old for most airline travel. International travel often requires a minimum age of 15+ weeks due to rabies vaccination timing.
Is sedation recommended for pet travel?
Sedation is not recommended by most veterinarians or airlines. Sedatives can affect breathing and temperature regulation at altitude; consult a veterinarian for alternatives.
What carrier is best for flying with a pet?
Carriers must be airline-approved, well-ventilated, leak-proof, and sized for the pet to stand, turn, and lie down. Soft-sided carriers are used for cabin travel; hard-sided crates are required for cargo.
Can exotic pets fly on commercial airlines?
Commercial airlines generally accept only dogs, cats, and occasionally small birds or rabbits. Exotic pets, reptiles, and rodents are not permitted; specialized transport services may be required.
Next steps
Now that you understand the basics, explore specific airline policies or check destination country requirements.
Browse airline pet policies
Compare cabin and cargo rules for over 200 airlines worldwide.
View Airlines DirectoryCheck country import rules
Find vaccination, quarantine, and documentation requirements by country.
View Country RequirementsDisclaimer: Airline pet travel rules change frequently and may vary by aircraft, route, and destination.
This page provides reference information compiled from publicly available sources. Final requirements should always be confirmed directly with the airline.
PetTravelRules is an independent reference platform. Not affiliated with any airline.