Everything You Need to Know About Flying With a Service Dog on Air France
Flying is stressful enough as it is, but if you rely on a service dog to go about your daily activities, airline policies can add another layer of complexity. In this article, I’ll break down Air France’s rules for traveling with assistance dogs and try to answer any questions you may have. From my own experiences flying with canine companions, I hope to ease some of the stress so you feel prepared for your upcoming trip.
What is Considered a Service Dog?
- The dog must be individually trained to perform tasks directly related to assisting the handler with disabilities.
- These tasks include but aren’t limited to guiding the visually impaired, alerting to danger, performing rescue work, pulling a wheelchair, etc.
- Emotional support animals or comfort animals do not qualify as service dogs under Air France’s policies.
Basically, it needs to be an animal that is actively trained to mitigate the impacts of a disability – not just provide a calming presence. Air France follows the definitions found under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Do I Need Proof My Dog Is a Service Animal?
When booking your trip, you’ll want to have documentation on hand in case Air France staff ask for it. This typically involves a letter from your doctor or medical professional verifying your disability and how the dog assists you. Additionally, make sure your service dog is clearly wearing a vest or patch that identifies it as a working animal.
From my experience, they almost never ask to see papers at check-in. But having paperwork ready is important in case a staff member wants confirmation. It’s better to be over-prepared than hassled at the gate wondering where your documentation is.
What paperwork is required for an international flight?
If traveling outside of Europe, you may need additional paperwork for your service dog. This could include an international health certificate from a vet and documents proving vaccinations are up to date. It’s crucial to check Air France’s website or contact them directly for the specific entry requirements of your destination country well in advance. Failing to have the proper paperwork can result in your dog being denied boarding or quarantined upon arrival. Planning ahead is key to a stress-free international trip with your service dog.
Are there any size or breed restrictions?
Nope, Air France does not impose size or breed limits on service animals. As long as your dog is house trained and can fit comfortably in your leg space without interfering with the safety and comfort of other passengers, the size should not be an issue. Some people personally prefer smaller breeds that take up less space on planes, but there’s no policy-based reason a Great Dane couldn’t fly as a service dog if adequately trained.
Will my dog need to be in a carrier?
According to Air France, service dogs are permitted to stay at your feet – no carrier required. Of course, a carrier can provide more structure and control in the tight airplane cabin. But as long as your well-behaved companion stays calm on command and doesn’t wander into the aisles or bother others, remaining by your side is acceptable. I’ve found taking my dog out during layovers or extremely long flights helps them stay zen. Just use your best judgment based on your dog’s temperament and training.
Can my service dog sit on my lap?
While it may seem comforting to have your furry friend close, Air France actually enforces a “no pets on laps” policy for safety reasons during take-off and landing. Service dogs must remain on the floor at your feet where they are less likely to interfere with emergency evacuation procedures. I know it’s tempting to cuddle, but following this rule protects both you and your pooch in the case of any turbulence or unexpected issues.
What if my dog acts up on the flight?
It’s smart to anticipate potential problems and prepare your service dog with training and practice for busy airport environments before flying. However, even the best trained pups can get distressed in unfamiliar situations. If your dog barks excessively, jumps on other passengers, or refuses to take direction – Air France reserves the right to remove them from the aircraft for the comfort and safety of others. Have backup plans in place, like contacting a kennel or having someone pick you up, in case that rare worst-case scenario occurs. With enough socialization and obedience work, chances are good your service dog will sail through takeoff and landing like a pro!
Are there any fees involved?
Service dogs fly free of charge and do not count as pets on Air France. You will not be assessed any pet fees provided you meet their qualifications. This includes waived fees for an extra seat if needed for your service dog. The only potential additional cost is if your dog’s kennel or carrier exceeds the size limits for carry-on luggage – then normal baggage fees would apply. But having your well-trained service animal by your side is free of any pet-related costs thanks to accessibility policies.
What other tips would be helpful for flying with a service dog?
Here are a few extra things I’ve learned that may ease your trip:
– Bring documentation in ziploc bags in case liquids are checked – it protects sensitive papers
– Pack high-value training treats to reward calm behavior during chaos
– Consider a DOT service dog vest or patches to avoid “is that really a service dog” questions
– Bring dog’s own food, bowls and ensure they are tagged
– Check any airline rules about service dogs in hotels or campgrounds at your destination
– Call ahead to notify the airport of your needs in case special arrangements can be made
– Make sure vaccinations, flea/tick prevention are completely up to date
– Bring dog’s crate or create a safe space if the aircraft gets delayed
With preparation and teamwork, you and your service dog buddy can fly stress-free knowing Air France aims to accommodate your needs every paw of the journey. Let me know if any other questions come up – I’m always happy to share more of my travel tactics and tales to help make flying a positive experience. Bon voyage!
Air France Service Dog Policy
| Type of Pet | Advance Notice Required | Maximum Weight | Cage/Harness Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service Dogs | At least 48 hours | No weight limit | Harness or leash required |
| Emotional Support Animals | At least 48 hours | 70 lbs or less | Traveling in cabin, no cage required |
| Pets (non-service/support animals) | At least 7 days | Varies by route | Must travel in cage under aircraft |
| Documentation Required | Service letter for service/support animals | Health certificate for pets | Vaccination records for all animals |
FAQ
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Can I bring my service dog on an Air France flight?
Generally speaking, Air France allows service dogs to accompany passengers in the cabin. However, there are some rules the dog and handler have to follow. The dog must sit at the passenger’s feet or on their lap. It can’t block the aisle or take up an extra seat. Air France might ask for documentation proving the dog is trained to behave properly and provide a service to its owner.
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What paperwork is required for a service dog on Air France?
To bring a service dog onboard an Air France plane, you’ll need a letter from your medical professional stating your need for the dog. The letter should describe the tasks or services the dog is trained to perform for you. Air France may also ask for things like proof of vaccinations and training certificates. Having all the proper paperwork can help things go smoothly at check-in.
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Are emotional support animals allowed?
At this time, Air France only recognizes dogs as service animals that can fly in the cabin. Emotional support animals like cats and rabbits do not have the same access rights. They must travel in the cargo hold as regular luggage and be properly contained in an IATA-approved pet carrier. Trying to pass off a non-service pet as an emotional support animal is probably not gonna work out too great.
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What if my service dog acts up on the flight?
Even the best behaved dogs can get anxious on a plane. If your service dog starts misbehaving like barking or crying, the crew may ask you to restrain them. Consider tranquilizers prescribed by your vet in extreme cases. It’s on you to get your dog under control so they don’t disturb other travelers. Otherwise Air France holds the right to refuse your dog from future flights with you. So keep those training skills sharp!
At the same time, most service dogs fly with their handlers with no problems thanks to their careful socialization and obedience training. Air France crew members will also try to be understanding if an accident happens. However, for safety reasons unruly animals cannot be endangering the flight or passengers. Open communication and flexibility on all sides helps make air travel possible for teams.
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What if my regular dog needs to accompany me last minute?
Even though officially only trained service dogs can fly in the cabin according to regulations, perhaps your pet has become suddenly essential to provide emotional aid during a difficult life change. I’d reach out to Air France Special Assistance to explain your personal situation and see if they’re willing to cut you some slack. It can’t hurt to ask, but it’s best to not raise expectations too high. Better safe than sorry is their usual style.
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Is there a size limit for service dogs?
While size is not a factor in whether an animal can qualify as a service dog under the ADA, Air France has set some limits for safety. Your dog must be able to sit at your feet without extending into the aisle or another passenger’s space. Most bags do well at under 20 kg. Really huge breeds may not fit in the small airplane cabins, no matter how well-trained. It’s advisable to contact Air France before booking a ticket if Fido is a Great Dane or Mastiff!
Even with rules put in place, the caring folks at Air France seem to try their best to accommodate service dogs and their owners. However, flying is not without some uncertainty. With advance preparation and cooperation from all sides, most trips go smoothly. What do you think – is it worth it for you to travel with your service dog by plane? I’m always here if you need advice!