Aeromexico Pet Travel Requirements: Everything You Need to Know
Travelling with pets can be stressful, but with proper planning it doesn’t have to be. If you’re flying Aeromexico with your furry companion, here’s a comprehensive guide to their pet carrier policies and travel tips from my experience.
Checking Pet Requirements
The first step is double checking Aeromexico’s pet requirements on their website. From what I’ve seen, they allow dogs and cats in the cabin as long as they meet certain specifications.
- Your pet must be at least 10 weeks old.
- The carrier cannot exceed 9.5 x 6.5 x 18 inches and must fit under the seat.
- You are limited to one pet carrier per passenger.
- Certain breeds are banned, like pit bulls.
It’s also a good idea to check for any pet travel restrictions in the country you’re visiting. Failure to follow the rules could result in your pet being refused boarding.
Booking Your Pet’s Ticket
Once you confirm Aeromexico allows pets onboard, the next step is booking their ticket when you purchase your own. There will typically be an additional charge that varies by route, which is fair since your pet requires their own space under the seat. From my kind of experience, these fees can be $150 each way or more on longer haul flights.
Choosing the Right Carrier
When it comes to picking a carrier, go for sturdy and secure. I’d avoid cheap, collapsible carriers since those tend to get squished on the overhead bins. Hard cases provide better impact protection in case of unexpected turbulence. Look for these features:
- Ventilated walls so your pet doesn’t overheat
- Easy-to-clean material like plastic or metal
- Comfortable handle for you to hold during the journey
- Secure latches or buckles to prevent escapes
A few weeks before your trip, start acclimating your pet to their carrier with treats and playtime inside. On the big day, feeding them shortly before flying can help minimize motion sickness. A stuffed kong toy or chew also provides distraction.
Arriving at the Airport
Once at the airport on your travel date, head straight to the check-in counter. Some airlines require you to check-in earlier when traveling with pets. Bring any health certificates or documents needed too. From my recollection, I have faced situations where staff gave unclear instructions and it caused delays.
When going through security, you’ll walk through the metal detector with the carrier – no x-ray. They may give it a visual inspection. Then take your pet directly to the gate and don’t let them roam the terminal freely. Follow all crew instructions about where to sit on the plane too.
In-Flight Tips
Onboard, keep your pet carrier secured at your feet or on your lap for takeoff/landing when the seatbelt sign is on. It provides stability and reassurance for them. Offer treats and affection periodically to prevent stress cries. Though on one flight, a dog behind me basically howled the whole time!
If there are any potty accidents, clean them up promptly with disinfectant wipes. Nobody wants to sit in a smelly mess! Communicate with the flight attendants if your pet seems unwell too. In most cases, as long as your pet is quiet and well-behaved, cabin crew were amazing according to my memory.
Arriving at Your Destination
Once you land, you can retrieve your pet from under the seat. Don’t let them roam around the jetbridge or terminal for health and safety. Proceed straight to immigration clearance which may involve a quick chat with officers at the pet line. Then you’re free to continue your travels pet in hand!
In summary, flying with pets sort of requires advance planning but is quite doable with Aeromexico if you follow the rules. Don’t be intimidated – most pets adapt well to the carrier and flight. Just be prepared and don’t forget to pack a favourite toy or treats. Safe travels to you and your furry companion!
Do you have any other questions? I aimed to address some typical concerns through sharing examples from my own experience. But please feel free to ask if any part of the process remains unclear. My goal is to help make your pet’s airline journey as smooth as pawsible.
Pet Carrier Requirements for Flying with Aeromexico
| Carrier Type | Size Requirements | Other Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hard-Sided | Maximum dimensions of 30 x 20 x 25 cm (12 x 8 x 10 inches) | Must be leak-proof and securely closed |
| Soft-Sided | Maximum dimensions of 30 x 20 x 25 cm (12 x 8 x 10 inches) | Zippers and Velcro closures must securely close |
| Collapsible | Maximum dimensions of 30 x 20 x 25 cm (12 x 8 x 10 inches) when fully collapsed | Must remain firmly assembled during flight |
| Under-Seat Bag | Must fit completely under the seat | Only for very small pets |
| Shipping Crate | Maximum dimensions of 100 x 70 x 70 cm (40 x 28 x 28 inches) | Only for larger pets traveling in cargo hold |
FAQ
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Can I bring my dog in a pet carrier on Aeromexico?
Aeromexico allows small pets to travel in carriers that fit under the seat. However, they have size and weight limits so you’ll need to check their policy before flying. On the other hand, larger pets usually have to be booked into the cargo area.
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What are the size rules for pet carriers on Aeromexico?
The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you and not weigh over 10 pounds full size. For example, it can’t hang out in the aisle or be taller than like 18 inches. Nevertheless, the pet also can’t take up too much legroom for the human passengers.
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Do I need any documents for my pet to fly?
Yes, you’ll sort of need a health certificate from your vet stating that your pet is fit to travel. Basically, this proves they are current on vaccines and all that. You also gotta bring proof of ID like a microchip number or something. Otherwise, the staff at the airport basically won’t let Fido board the plane with you!
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Can I use a soft-sided carrier for my flight?
It’s possible but not really recommended. A hard plastic carrier provides more protection from things that go bump in the luggage compartment. But perhaps a nice thick pad in a fabric carrier is adequate if your pet is small and chill. Anyway, you wouldn’t want anything to happen to your furry friend at 30,000 feet!
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What happens if my pet gets stressful during the flight?
Try to reduce stress as much as possible before the journey. Perhaps give them calming treats or try to ease nerves. At the same time, talk to your vet about mild anti-anxiety meds if really needed. Flight attendants have seen it all so don’t be afraid to get help if your pet appears upset. They’ll want a safe flight for all.
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How can I prepare my pet for airplane travel?
Exposure to carrier, sounds of the airport, car rides in advance are key. Maybe it’s also worth habituating them to being touched all over before the big day. Also consider calming they after exposure sessions. Overall, keeping practices positive teaches them flying isn’t too terrifying. Right? But is it fair to subject pets to flights without ideal preparation? Perhaps driving or staying home is best for the highly stressed companions.