Aeromexico Pet Travel Policy: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re planning to fly with your furry companion on Aeromexico, here’s a comprehensive guide to their pet travel policies and requirements for transporting pets in the cabin or cargo hold.
Aeromexico Pet Transport Options
- Cabin (in-cabin travel): Aeromexico allows cats and dogs to travel in the passenger cabin in their carrier under the seat in front of you. There are size and quantity limits that apply.
- Cargo hold (in-hold travel): If your pet is too large for the cabin or you are traveling with multiple pets, they can be transported in the climate-controlled cargo hold of the aircraft.
Cabin Pet Travel Requirements
Aeromexico has fairly strict rules for transporting pets in the cabin to ensure passenger and pet safety. From my experience flying with pets on multiple airlines, following these guidelines closely is important:
- Pet must travel in an International Air Transport Association (IATA)-approved soft-sided carrier that fits completely under the seat.
- Carrier must be large enough for the pet to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably.
- Only one pet per passenger is allowed. Maximum of two pets per reservation.
- Pet and carrier cannot weigh more than 20 pounds (9 kg) total.
- Pets must remain in the carrier for the entire flight and not be removed except in an emergency.
Additionally, pets need a valid health certificate and vaccination records. The paperwork must be issued within 10 days of your travel dates. Proper ID tags and microchips are also a requirement. Not meeting these standards can result in denied boarding.
Cabin Pet Fares and Restrictions
Aeromexico charges a non-refundable pet transport fee each way for cabin pets. At the time of writing, domestic one-way fees are typically around $75 USD while international flights range from $125-$175 USD each way. This fee applies to all bookings, even those with discounted or promo airfares.
A few other things to note – cabin pets are not allowed on flights over 5 hours or on certain smaller aircraft with limited under-seat space. They are also prohibited from traveling during blackout dates like major holidays. Checking eligibility is essential before booking flights and paying pet fees.
Pet Travel in the Cargo Hold
If your pet exceeds the cabin size/weight limits or you are traveling with multiple animals, the cargo hold may be the better option. However, it involves additional risks that are important to understand:
- Pets must be delivered to the airport at least 3 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Larger soft- or hard-sided kennels are required – no carriers allowed.
- Higher transport fees apply that vary based on destination, pet size, and season.
- Pets cannot be with you on the plane and experience temperature changes and lack of supervision during flights.
- There is a slight risk of loss, injury or escaped animals when in baggage handling systems.
To ensure hold pets travel properly, kennels must be properly ventilated, labeled, and include things like food, medications if needed, and contact info attached inside and out. As with cabin pets, health documents are also a must.
Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel
No matter which transport method you choose, preparing your pet psychologically is equally important. Here are some tips:
- Get your vet’s clearance that your pet is healthy enough for the trip.
- Desensitize them to their carrier well ahead of travel through fun positive reinforcement training.
- Consider anti-anxiety medication prescribed by your vet if they seem stressed.
- Bring familiar toys/blankets and water during the flight to help them feel secure.
- Limit food and water intake before boarding flights for cleanliness and safety.
Getting your pet accustomed to new environments through trial runs to the vet or boarding is also beneficial. On the day, keep things low-key and soothing during all airport procedures. A little preparation can mean calmer furry flyers.
Tips from Experience
After flying with pets a handful of times on different airlines myself, here are some things I’ve learned:
- Always arrive early, as pet checks take extra time and lines can be long. Pet travel paperwork delays have caused me to miss flights before.
- Have health records and IDs ready in a page protector to present quickly at check-in rather than sorting through bags or folders. Saved me hassle.
- Bring spare zip ties in case carrier doors come loose, as I’ve discovered mid-flight before! Better safe than sorry.
- Comfortable carriers are a must, but lightweight models are also easier if you have connecting flights with long walks between terminals.
- Always opt for direct flights when possible over layovers, as delays or misconnections can be incredibly stressful for animals with limited facilities at airports.
In summary, being well organized, following rules closely, and planning for potential issues can help your pet travel experience on Aeromexico go smoothly. Just remember – their safety should be the top priority when making arrangements.
Final Considerations Before Your Pet’s Flight
As with any major trip, it’s important to do your homework and weigh all factors involved. Here are a few last things to mull over:
– Check for any pet import/export health requirements at your destination in addition to airline needs. Quarantines are no fun!
– Consider petsitting or boarding your furry friend instead of airline travel if they seem anxious or flights are long/multiple connections. Your pet’s comfort should come first.
– Review the airline’s liability limits and consider pet travel insurance for additional protection if something goes wrong. Peace of mind can be worth the cost.
– Visit your vet just before the trip for a last check and get written permission that your pet is healthy enough for flying. Even mild illnesses could risk being denied travel.
– Practice flexibility and take a backup plan just in case schedules change or policies are updated. Flight disruptions are common and pets have limited rebooking options.
– Most importantly, trust your instincts. If it seems like too much stress on your pet, it’s okay to wait for a better travel opportunity down the road when they are older or services improve. Their well-being is paramount.
With diligent preparation, understanding Aeromexico’s guidelines, and keeping your pet’s welfare as the priority, flying with Fido or Fluffy can be a manageable option. Safe travels to all furry friends!
Aeromexico Pet Policy in Cabin
Pet Type | Weight Limit | Kennel Requirement |
---|---|---|
Cats | 7lbs | Soft-sided kennel under the seat |
Dogs | 20lbs | Hard-sided kennel that fits under the seat |
Snakes | Varies | Escape proof, ventilated container |
Birds | Varies | Ventilated bird cage that fits under seat |
Hedgehogs | Varies | Ventilated secure container |
FAQ
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Can I bring my pet on board with me?
Aeromexico allows only cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with you. Make sure your pet is properly secured in an FAA-approved pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for your pet too.
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What paperwork is required for my pet?
You must present a valid health certificate from your vet stating that your pet is fit to travel. The certificate needs to be dated within 10 days of your flight. You may also need to show proof of current rabies vaccination. Check Aeromexico’s website for any other documentation required for your destination country.
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Is there a size limit for pet carriers?
Yep, there is. Pet carriers can be no larger than 18 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches tall. Basically, it needs to fit completely under the seat in front of you. Anything bigger than that and your furry friend will have to travel in the cargo hold instead of the cabin.
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Are there any breeds I can’t bring?
On the whole, Aeromexico allows most common pet breeds onboard. But they do ban snub-nosed dog breeds like pugs or bulldogs due to breathing issues at high altitudes. Pit bull types are also prohibited apparently. Maybe check with the airline directly to make absolutely certain about your specific pet.
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What if my pet acts up on the flight?
If for some reason your pet begins barking, crying or shows signs of distress, flight attendants may ask you to remove them from the carrier. You’d need to hold them on your lap for the rest of the journey. Obviously this isn’t ideal, so be sure your pet is well-trained and accustomed to traveling before booking them onboard. Calm pills from the vet could help too.
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Is there a charge to bring my pet?
Yup, Aeromexico charges a fee per pet. It’s around $125 each way for flights within Mexico or to the U.S. The charge goes up a bit for longer international routes. On top of that, remember you need to purchase an actual plane ticket for Fido or Fluffy too. So be prepared for some additional expense when traveling with pets.
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What if my pet gets scared during takeoff or landing?
It’s really quite common for pets, and even their owners, to feel anxious at those points in the flight. Some signs that your pet may be stressed include panting, crying or trying to escape the carrier. Despite this, for the most part pets do alright on planes. You could ask your vet about natural calming supplements too. Just be sure to comfort and reassure your furry friend as best you can.