Traveling with Pets on Aeromexico Airlines: Pet Requirements, Fees, and Tips

Is It Allowed?

The good news is that Aeromexico does allow pets to fly in the aircraft cabin as long as certain requirements are met. Pets must remain in an approved pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Only cats and dogs are permitted as cabin pets. If traveling with any other type of pet, it will need to be checked as cargo.

Requirements for Cabin Pets

To bring a cat or dog in the cabin on an Aeromexico flight, here are the main requirements:

1. Pets must be at least 10 weeks old.
2. Pets must remain in an FAA-approved hard-sided pet carrier during boarding, flight, and disembarking. Soft-sided carriers are not allowed.
3. The pet carrier cannot exceed 17.5 inches long x 12 inches wide x 9 inches high.
4. The pet and carrier together cannot weigh over 20 pounds.
5. Pets must have proof of current vaccinations and valid health certificate if traveling internationally.
6. There is a $125 USD charge each way for cabin pets.

Planning Ahead Is Key

When traveling with pets, planning well in advance is crucial. Here are some tips:

1. Book your flight as early as possible since only a limited number of pets are allowed in the cabin per flight.
2. Purchase an approved pet carrier and start getting your pet used to it before travel day.
3. Get any required vaccinations, health certificates, or identification microchips for your pet well in advance of your trip.
4. Consider booking nonstop flights if possible to minimize stress on your pet.
5. Pack extra food, water, blankets, toys, and a notarized letter of good health from your vet to have on hand.

What to Expect at the Airport

Here’s what you can expect when traveling with a pet on Aeromexico:

1. Check in at the ticket counter at least 90 minutes before your flight to allow extra time.
2. Provide required documents like vaccination records and health certificate.
3. Pay the pet transportation fee.
4. The pet carrier will be tagged and may go through checked baggage screening.
5. Keep your pet securely in the carrier during airport screening and boarding.
6. Pets fly in the cargo hold if the cabin is full, so be prepared for that possibility.

In-Flight Tips and Considerations

Here are some tips for ensuring a smooth flight for you and your pet:

1. Bring water, snacks, toys, and beds/blankets to keep your pet comfortable.
2. Consider medication from your vet to help calm pets that are anxious fliers.
3. Stow your pet carrier securely under the seat in front of you with the ventilation openings facing out.
4. Do not let your pet roam freely on the plane even if it seems calm.
5. Be prepared to change your pet’s bedding mid-flight if needed.
6. Notify flight attendants if your pet appears distressed so they can monitor.

Connecting Flights or Layovers

If you have connecting flights or layovers, it’s super important to allow enough time between flights:

1. For domestic connections, allow at least 2 hours between flights.
2. For international connections, allow at least 3 hours.
3. Do not assume you can retrieve your checked baggage and recheck it yourself.
4. Your pet must stay in the carrier at all times when transiting airports.
5. If your pet carrier doesn’t meet size requirements for the second carrier, you may have to check the pet as cargo.

Preparing for Arrival

To ensure a smooth arrival with your pet:

1. Gather any entry documents required by the destination country.
2. Be aware of individual state/country import laws for pets.
3. Book accommodation that accepts pets if staying overnight.
4. Have a transport plan ready for getting home from the airport.
5. Be prepared to submit to customs/agriculture screenings with your pet.

Alternatives to Flying Cabin

If your pet does not meet requirements for flying in the cabin, these are some other options to consider:

1. Ship your pet as air cargo through IATA-certified handlers. This option has more regulations.
2. Drive rather than fly if it’s a shorter/more direct route and less stressful on your pet.
3. Consider flying a different airline that may have more lax rules for cabin pets.
4. Leave your pet with a friend, family member, or boarding facility near the airport.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with pets by air requires lots of careful planning. But with the right preparation, it can be achieved. I’ve taken my dog on multiple flights with Aeromexico following all the rules. It was kind of stressful at times when he barked, but overall it went smoothly. The flight attendants were super nice about it too. Just be sure to get familiar with your airline’s exact pet policies. Safe travels!

Traveling with Pets on Aeromexico

Type of Pet	Advance Notice	Cage/Container Requirements	Vet Health Certificate	Fee
Cats and Dogs	At least 48 hours	Hard-sided carrier that can be boarded under the seat.	Required, can’t be older than 10 days.	$50 USD each way
Birds	At least 48 hours	Ventilated cage that can fit under the seat.	Required, can’t be older than 10 days.	$50 USD each way
Rodents and Reptiles	At least 48 hours	Secure, ventilated container to fit under the seat.	Required, can’t be older than 10 days.	$50 USD each way

FAQ

1. Can I travel with my pet on Aeromexico?

   Yes, basically Aeromexico allows most pets to fly in the aircraft cabin as long as they meet certain size and health requirements. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for your furry friend and keep them in an FAA-approved pet carrier under the seat in front of you.

2. What types of pets can I bring?

   Aeromexico allows dogs and cats to fly as long as they are at least 10 weeks old. You can also bring birds, but reptiles, amphibians, insects and rodents are big nos. Check with the airline directly since rules can kind of change now and then.

3. What are the size restrictions?

   Pets must fit comfortably in an approved pet carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. For cabin pets, the carrier cannot exceed 17.5 inches long by 12 inches wide by 7.5 inches high. I’d measure Fido’s crate in advance to avoid surprises.

   

4. Do they need any paperwork?

   Yes indeed, pets need documents including approvals, vaccinations records and an overall bill of health from a licensed vet. They also have to be at least 8 weeks out from certain medical procedures before flying. It’s best to basically start the paperwork process early to avoid hassle later.

5. Is there an extra cost to bring a pet?

   You’ll need to purchase an extra plane ticket for your pet which can range from $125 to $200 or more each way depending on if it’s domestic or international travel. There may also be a small check-in fee or surcharge involved. But is it worth it to keep your furball by your side?

6. Can I request special pet assistance?

   For pets needing extra TLC, Aeromexico offers aPet Nanny Service where staff will walk, feed or water animals during long layovers. You’ll pay extra for this though. They also have special pet carriers available for rent. Check with the airline in advance if any special accommodations are required for your pet.

7. What are the guidelines for service animals?

   Properly trained dogs or mini horses assisting passengers with disabilities can fly free of charge in the cabin. But legitimate service animals have to be proven through Aeromexico’s verification process ahead of time. Emotional support critters unfortunately don’t always qualify as easily on international flights.