These airlines allow pets in the cabin, but each one has different rules and required documents. It’s better to check the airline’s regulations before buying your ticket.
North America
- Southwest Airlines: Allows small vaccinated cats and dogs in carriers under the seat for a modest fee, but only on domestic flights.
- JetBlue: Famous for its JetPaws program, offering pet owners additional points and travel tips. Weight limit is 20 pounds including carrier.
- Spirit Airlines: Budget-friendly carrier that permits small pets in the cabin on domestic and select international routes.
- American Airlines: Accepts cats and dogs on many domestic and short-haul international flights, with certain aircraft restrictions.
- United Airlines: Offers PetSafe program for cargo, but also allows cabin pets on many flights under 20 pounds.
- Delta Air Lines: Long-standing pet-friendly airline with well-defined cabin policies, but restrictions apply to long-haul international flights.
- Alaska Airlines: Highly rated by pet travelers, with clear pricing and even a Fur-st Class Care program for animals.
- Air Canada: Permits cats and small dogs in the cabin on most domestic and international routes for a reasonable fee.
Europe
- Air France: Allows cats and dogs under 8 kg in the cabin if traveling in a soft bag, but requires advance booking.
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Cabin pets allowed under 8 kg; the airline also has one of the most comprehensive pet cargo services.
- Lufthansa: Highly pet-friendly, offering cabin travel for small pets under 8 kg and specialized care for larger animals in cargo.
- Swiss International Air Lines: Welcomes small dogs and cats under 8 kg in the cabin; service animals always permitted free of charge.
- Turkish Airlines: Known for flexible pet rules; allows pets up to 8 kg in the cabin, including cats, dogs, and small birds.
- TAP Air Portugal: Accepts cats and dogs in the cabin with weight restrictions and advance reservation required.
- ITA Airways: Italy’s flag carrier permits small pets in the cabin with pre-booking and suitable carriers.
Asia
- Hong Kong Airlines: Allows trained service dogs in the cabin on most flights; pet travel rules are strict for other animals.
- Asiana Airlines (South Korea): Permits dogs, cats, and birds under 7 kg in the cabin. Extra fees apply based on weight and route.
- Korean Air (South Korea): Cabin pets allowed under 7 kg; one of the few Asian airlines that provide detailed pet safety programs.
- t’way Air (South Korea): Low-cost airline that has recently allowed small pets in the cabin on select domestic flights.
- Bamboo Airways (Vietnam): Pet-friendly option in Vietnam, accepting cats and dogs under 7 kg in the cabin.
- Air Astana (Kazakhstan): Permits pets up to 8 kg in the cabin; requires health certificates and advance reservation.
South America
- LATAM Airlines: One of the largest South American carriers, allows cats and dogs under 7 kg in the cabin. Rules vary by route.
- Aerolíneas Argentinas: Permits small cats and dogs in carriers; international routes require additional veterinary documentation.
Africa
- Ethiopian Airlines: Accepts pets in cabin if under 8 kg including the carrier; larger pets travel in the hold.
- Royal Air Maroc: Allows cats, dogs, and even birds under 5 kg in the cabin, with strict requirements for carriers.
Australia / Oceania
- Virgin Australia: Currently only permits service dogs in the cabin, but starting 2025, small pets will be allowed on domestic flights.
FAQs
What documents are needed for travel with pets in an airplane?
Health certificate, vaccination record, and ID microchip (if required).
How much is the maximum weight of an animal on a plane?
Usually 7–10 kg for cabin; heavier pets go as cargo.
Is it allowed to travel internationally with pets?
Yes, but rules vary by country and airline.
Is it expensive to travel on a plane with pets?
Fees range from $75–$300 depending on airline and route.
Is it allowed for pets in business class?
Yes on some airlines, but space and size rules apply.
