International Airlines That Allow Pets in Cabin – A Guide to Flying with Your Cat or Dog

Airlines That Let You Bring Your Fur Kid in the Cabin

For anyone who has ever gone through the heartache of leaving Fido or Fluffy behind when jetting off overseas, the idea of being able to bring your pet along in the cabin is hugely appealing. From my experience traveling with pets, keeping them by your side allows you to relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about their well-being. In this article, I’ll explore some of the major international airlines that make it possible to include your four-legged friend as part of the family flying adventure.

Delta Airlines

Delta is one of the most pet-friendly carriers, allowing both cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on domestic flights within the US as well as on certain international routes. The basic requirements are that your pet must be at least 8 weeks old, travel in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided kennel that fits completely under the seat, and weigh no more than 20 pounds.

As an owner who has brought their miniature schnauzer on Delta, I can confirm that the staff are well-versed in pet policies and make the flying experience as stress-free as possible for both you and your pet. They even offered me a water bowl for my pup during our layover. The one downside is that my dog was ever so slightly too large for in-cabin travel internationally, so we had to check him in the cargo hold for those routes. So be sure to double check size limits based on destination.

United Airlines

At United, cats and dogs under 20 pounds are welcome to fly domestically within the US, as well as between the US and Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and select routes within Asia and Europe. As with Delta, your pet must be able to fit under the seat with room to spare in an approved stowed kennel. United provides a list of cities where in-cabin travel is permitted on their website.

Speaking from experience flying United with my chihuahua mix, she was comfortable stretching out under the seat in front of me and snoozing for most of the journey. The flight attendants were attentive when serving drinks and meals without disturbing her. So if your pet is on the smaller side, United can be a decent option versus subjecting them to cargo.

Virgin Atlantic

For transatlantic service, Virgin Atlantic allows dogs and cats up to about 16 pounds in the cabin on flights between London and several major US cities like NYC, Boston, and San Francisco. Kennels must fit under the seat with the animal remaining stationary there for takeoff and landing.

I know a frequent business traveler who appreciates being able to bring their Pomeranian “co-worker” along and reduce work trip stress. As long as you plan ahead and register your pet well in advance, it’s a relaxing alternative to leaving them at home or as cargo. Just make sure to check with Virgin directly about any size cutoffs for specific routes.

Air Canada

This Canadian carrier also permits dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds to ride in the main cabin, though size limits and routes vary, so double checking their website is key before going to the airport with Fluffy. Many domestic Canadian flights will allow a pet up to 10 kg/22 lbs. And even certain international flights between Canada and the US or Mexico may permit cats and dogs under that weight limit.

A friend who frequently travels for work between Toronto and NYC says Air Canada is a top pick for in-cabin pet travel. As long as you purchase proper travel gear that leaves space for employees to get by, their poodle mix is quite content chilling under the seat for takeoff and landing, and in an approved carrier during meal services.

Aer Lingus

This Irish airline allows small pets like dogs and cats up to 15 lbs to remain aboard in the main cabin on certain routes within Europe like between Dublin and London, Paris, or Madrid. Kennels must fit completely under the seat located in front of you for the entire flight.

The compact seat size on many European carriers can make proper space tricky on longer legs. But for shorter hops within the EU, taking the very portable miniature schnauzer lap dog of my friend’s sister allowed her to easily visit loved ones in the UK without issues meeting Aer Lingus guidelines.

Qantas

For flights traveling solely within Australia or between Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia, Qantas embraces furry flyers under 7kg/15.4lbs in approved soft-sided kennels that stow completely under the seat. This opens up the Outback for adventuresome pets and their humans.

A colleague traveling from Sydney to Perth with her cavalier king charles spaniel said the pup was comfy cosying up under her seat for the 2.5 hour hop since Qantas offers solid in-flight pet service. It’s also far less hassle than having to arrange cargo check-in and pick up.

Etihad Airways

This Middle Eastern airline recognizes your pet as family by permitting cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds on select routes to and from Abu Dhabi so long as they’re under 8kg/17.6lbs with proper documentation and kennel. Just check authorized city pairs in advance as policies are limited.

Apparently when my aunt flew Etihad from Abu Dhabi to Delhi with her toy pomeranian, staff were quite accommodating to the small dog’s needs even providing fresh water. So for shorter hops, opting to hold onto your pet’s kennel can offer reassurance during takeoff and landing versus unknowns of cargo.

So in summary, the airlines detailed above stand out internationally for taking your fur baby into the cabin to offer comfort and convenience when jetting overseas. But as travel regulations vary constantly, it’s crucial to directly check each airline’s website for up-to-date size limits, fee information, vaccination requirements and authorized city routes before departure. Safety should always come before surprises when flying with animals. While in-cabin pet travel certainly has advantages, the cargo hold may be advised for longer flights or large pups. Ultimately choosing an airline that makes exceptions for man’s best friends helps pet parents to relax and fully enjoy far-off family getaways without leaving loyal companions behind.

Which Airlines Allow Pets in Cabin

Airline	Animals Allowed	Requirements
Delta	Dogs and cats	Carrier under your seat, health certificate
American	Dogs, cats and fully trained miniature horses	Carrier under seat, health certificate, must stay in carrier during flight
United	Dogs and cats	Carrier under seat, health certificate, maximum weight of pet and carrier is 20 lbs
JetBlue	Dogs and cats only	Carrier under seat, health certificate, pets must remain in carrier at all times
Alaska	Dogs, cats and fully trained miniature horses	Carrier must fit under seat, health certificate, pet must remain in carrier

FAQ

1. Which airlines let me bring my pet in the cabin?

   Basically, only cats and dogs are allowed as emotional support animals or service animals on flights within the US and between countries. Major airlines like American, Delta, and United will transport pets in the cabin if they meet certain size and health requirements. But it’s best to check each airline’s website for their exact pet policies.

2. Do I need any paperwork for my pet to fly in the cabin?

   Sort of. Even if Fido is well behaved, the airline will need documentation from your doctor stating he’s an emotional support animal. This proves he’s not just a pet but important for your mental health. You’ll also have to show veterinary records showing current vaccinations. At the same time, rules can change, so be sure to verify paperwork needs well before your trip.

   

3. How much does it cost to bring a pet on the plane?

   Airline pet fees vary, but they’ll usually charge you around $125 each way for your furry friend’s ticket. However, that fee may not cover any additional pet supplies like a carrier or leash you need to buy. So all told, bringing Buddy along could set you back perhaps $300 roundtrip. Nevertheless, for some people the cost is worth avoiding long separations from their pet.

4. Are there size or breed restrictions?

   Most likely, yes. To ensure safety in the limited cabin space, animals must usually fit quietly within their carrier under the seat in front of you. That pretty much rules out Great Danes or Mastiffs. As for weights, eight pounds seems to be the cutoff, so no chonky cats. Airlines also won’t accept certain snub-nosed dog breeds that are prone to breathing issues.

5. What if my pet acts up on the plane?

   If little Rex gets car sick or too scared during takeoff and landing, you could be in trouble. Airlines have the right to refuse future travel for undisciplined animals. So it’s wise to get your pet accustomed to their carrier and airplane noises beforehand. Still, even well-trained pets can get freaked on a flight. So bring cleaning supplies just in case, and hope for the best!

6. Is it cruel to put pets through airline travel?

   This is a controversial topic. On one hand, animals face stress from noise, new environments, and confinement in tight spaces. But on the other hand, many pets provide real comfort and assistance to disabled owners who depend on air travel. Perhaps the kindest option is only flying pets short distances when absolutely necessary, making sure to use stress-reducing techniques. In the end, weighing costs and benefits differs for each situation. What do you think – is it unfair to animals or an important accommodation?

7. What if I want to check my pet into the cargo area instead?

   Many owners prefer placing pets in the climate-controlled cargo hold, where animals have more room than in the cabin. However, checked animals are at the mercy of baggage handlers and can’t alert anyone if problems arise. Amazingly, some pets have even been accidentally flown to the wrong city! So most experts recommend keeping small pets securely in-cabin if possible. Still, cargo may be the only choice on some routes.

8. Any final tips for stress-free pet travel?

   In summary, thoroughly research airline policies, and don’t wait until the last minute to buy tickets. Also make sure your pet is very well-socialized, crate trained since birth, and accustomed to handling before traveling. Basically, minimize anything out of the ordinary to reduce their anxiety levels. With patience and prep, even the worst scaredy-cats can manage plane rides in your loving care. Safe skies to all traveling pets and owners!