June 19, 2023
The World’s Pet-Friendly Airlines of 2023
Wondering what airlines would let you fly around the world with your most beloved pets?
Luckily, it’s not uncommon to find airlines that allow pets to travel by air nowadays. They can now be transported in the cabin, as checked baggage, or in the cargo. Although, there are still specific policies and restrictions that apply depending on the airlines.
Several airlines permit pets in the cabin. However, please note that policies can change, so it’s essential to verify with the airline directly or consult their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Here are some airlines around the world that would let you fly with your pets!
1. United Airlines
This airline only allows dogs and cats to travel in the cabin with a carry-on pet fee of $125 each way. The good news is that they do not have any breed or weight limitations for pets flying in the cabin. United Airlines allow only one pet per kennel.
2. Air France
Dogs and cats are welcome on Air France flights, they can be in the cabin, in the checked baggage, or in cargo. For safety reasons, crates are not accepted in the cabin but are allowed in the hold (in the cargo area). Read more about Air France’s policy when flying with animals here.
3. Alitalia
Alitalia allows passengers to travel with their pets, but a weight limit applies. Dogs and cats must have the following documentation to travel within Italy and the EU, a legible microchip or tattoo and a passport issued by an official veterinarian. Alitalia will also fly ferrets, rabbits, hamsters, and birds.
4. Finnair
Small pets, such as cats, dogs, and pet rabbits, can travel with you in the cabin on flights with Finnair. The given total weight of the pet and the pet carrier does not exceed 8 kg (17 lb).
5. Iberia
Bring your dog, cat, bird, fish, or tortoise when you fly with Iberia. To travel with your pet, you will have to pay a fee of EUR 25 to EUR 300 depending on the destination. Remember, you must make your pet booking at least 48 hours.
6. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM allows cats and dogs on their flights, except for snub-nosed breeds, such as pugs. For KLM flights, pets in the cargo must be stored in IATA-approved kennels. These must have a locking door and bedding such as a blanket/newspaper.
7. Lufthansa
You can take your dog or cat with you in the cabin on your Lufthansa flight. We’ll check the availability and make the booking for you no later than 72 hours before departure. Check on Lufthansa Airlines Pet Policy here.
8. Swiss International Air Lines
Dogs and cats are the only pets accepted in the Swiss Air cabin in their travel bag, up to a combined weight of 8 kg. The price for flying your pet in a Swiss Airlines cabin or cargo hold varies, depending on the route, method of travel, and the size of your pet.
9. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS)
A limited number of animals are allowed per flight. Each passenger can bring on board one pet cage/bag, which can hold a maximum of two pets, and no additional cabin baggage. The fee for transporting your pet varies according to route and/or destination.
10. TAP Air Portugal
Flights with TAP Air Portugal allow only dogs and cats to be transported in the cabin or in the hold depending on the breed, size, age, and weight. Book in advance to make sure your pet can be carried on your next trip.
11. All Nippon Airways (ANA)
All Nippon Airways will not fly pet dogs or cats in the cabin (only turtles, tortoises, small fish, and insects are allowed in the cabin on domestic flights. But they will fly pet dogs and cats in the hold as checked baggage on both domestic and international flights, or as cargo.
12. Etihad Airways
Small pets are permitted to fly in the cabin on Etihad Airways flights to and from Abu Dhabi, except for when flying to or from selected destinations. They will require a current health certificate indicating that your pet is healthy enough for travel.
13. Asiana Airlines & Korean Air
These are the two major Korean Airlines wherein pets are accepted both in the cabin and in excess baggage. For pets flying in the cabin, the weight limit is 7kg, including their carrier. One pet is permitted per passenger in the cabin.
Flying with your pet on this most-friendly airline surely awaits a good trip! Nevertheless, it will cost you additional money and effort. So, beforehand, make sure to contact your chosen airline for their pet policy and procedures. Also, remember if you are travelling between member states of the European Union you will need to carry a valid pet passport. Please keep in mind that certain countries have restrictions on the importation of pets. It’s advisable to contact the airline directly or review their official website for the most accurate and updated information on their pet policy.
Want to know about some pet-friendly airports? Read more here.