Guide to Traveling with Pets on Aeromexico Flights
Whether you want to take Fido on a beach vacation or whisk Fluffy away to visit family, transporting pets by air requires preparing them—and yourself—for the journey. As one of Mexico’s largest airlines, Aeromexico is a popular option among those traveling across the border with companion animals in tow. In this guide, we’ll answer common questions about flying with pets on Aeromexico and give you tips to help ensure a smooth trip.
Booking Your Pet’s Ticket
From my experiences booking flights for my dog Lola, the first step is selecting an eligible pet carrier and checking it can fit under the seat in front of you or in the cargo hold, depending on your pet’s size. Most dogs and cats must travel in hard-sided carriers that are properly labeled and sized to FAA guidelines.
You’ll also need a health certificate from your vet verifying your pet is healthy, has received all required vaccines, and fits any country-specific import requirements. Some pets may need additional paperwork or permits too. Make sure to book well ahead of time to get everything in order.
Once prepared, purchase your pet’s ticket directly from Aeromexico when buying your own ticket. Supplies are limited, so the earlier the better. Make sure to specify if your pet will fly in cabin or cargo. Fees vary by route and pet size, typically $100-250 each way for dogs or cats under 15 pounds.
Pre-Travel Preparations
Proper crate training well before your trip will help familiarize anxious pets to their carrier. Get them used to eating, drinking, and having accident-free stays inside. Bring water bowls, towels or blankets with familiar scents. Consider anti-anxiety medication your vet can prescribe to reduce stress.
Also make sure identification tags include your contact details, and pack any medications separately in your carry-on in case of delays. Bring extra food and water in sealed containers in case of long layovers too.
- Don’t let pets eat or drink anything in the 8 hours before your flight to minimize bathroom breaks mid-journey.
- Arrive at the airport early to check in your pet, especially for international flights requiring customs clearance.
- Bringing toys, chews or treats can help distract pets during take-off and landing when noise levels peak.
Traveling With Pets
During boarding, stay calm and avoid excess affection which can overstimulate nervous pets. Find your assigned seat or check if your pet can sit with you. For cargo, pets may be checked up to 3 hours before departure.
In cabin, follow crew instructions and keep carriers under the seat securely buckled for take-off and landing. You may let pets out briefly during flight in a safe manner if allowed. Carriers must go back on for landing approach.
Pets in cargo hold tend to fare better when traveling non-stop versus connecting flights introducing more risk of delays. Despite best efforts, unexpected challenges can arise like missed connections, making it important to purchase fully refundable tickets if affordable.
Arriving at Your Destination
Upon deplaning, stay close by baggage claim in case of cargo delays to claim pets quickly. Make sure pets have food, water and relief access after the long flight. Report any issues or health changes to the airline right away.
With careful planning and some calming canine yoga to relax before my big snuggle date, Lola’s flight to visit Grandma went smoothly! I hope these tips help give you peace of mind for your upcoming trip with pets aboard Aeromexico.
Let me know if you have any other questions—traveling furry friends just takes sorting out the right approach. Bon voyage and happy trails to you and your pet!
Aeromexico Travel with Pets Requirements
| Pet Type | Cage/Carrier Requirements | Health Certificate | Vaccination Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Soft-sided or ventilated carrier | Issued 10 days before travel | Rabies, DHPPC |
| Cats | Soft-sided carrier | Issued 10 days before travel | Rabies |
| Birds | Ventilated cage or container | Issued 10 days before travel | Avian Influenza |
| Rodents | Secure, ventilated container | Issued 10 days before travel | None |
| Reptiles | Secure, ventilated container | Issued 10 days before travel | Salmonella (for Iguanas) |
FAQ
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What animals can I bring on an Aeromexico flight as a pet?
Aeromexico allows dogs and cats as carry-on or checked baggage. You’ll need to present proof of current vaccinations and put your pet in an FAA-approved carrier. Animals like birds, snakes, and rodents usually aren’t permitted in the cabin for health and safety reasons.
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Do I need any paperwork to fly with my pet?
You’ll need to show your pet’s vaccination records and health certificate at check-in. The certificate must be issued within 10 days of your flight by a licensed veterinarian. It proves your pet has received all necessary shots and is fit to travel. Aeromexico may refuse animals without the proper papers, so don’t forget ’em!
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Is there a size limit for pet carriers?
Yep, carriers have to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin. Most airlines limit the carrier size to around 22 inches long by 15 inches high or less. That basically means no Great Danes or St. Bernards flying in the passenger cabin! Measure your furry friend’s crate just to be safe.
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Should I sedate my pet for the flight?
Maybe, maybe not. It really depends on the animal. Many vets suggest a light sedative to calm anxious pets. However, sedatives can have side effects too. Discuss options with your vet – they know your pet best. Probably best not to risk it for a super active doggie. On the other paw, a mellow cat likely doesn’t need medication.
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Are there any travel days I shouldn’t fly with pets?
Weekends and peak travel times tend to be busier, so trying to fly mid-week could be less hectic with pets. Holidays are notoriously crowded as well. Perhaps avoid flying Fido or Fluffy on major travel holidays if you can. With that said, Aeromexico may refuse animals on extremely overloaded flights for everyone’s safety.
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What if my pet gets nervous during the flight?
Don’t panic! It’s common for pets to feel uneasy in new environments. Try calming techniques like speaking softly and gently petting them. Offer favorite toys or treats for distraction. The flight attendants may also offer reassurance. Using a pet-calming diffuser or wiping them down with a familiar scented wipe could help too. Most pets settle as the flight goes on.
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Is it actually kind of stressful to travel with pets?
At the same time, traveling with pets definitely adds an extra layer of planning and nerves. You’ve gotta consider things humans rarely think about – like how your furry friend will handle the flight, any layovers, new environments, etc. It requires tons of extra preparation for paperwork, vet checks, suitable carriers, and potentially sedatives too. So yeah, traveling with pets can be pretty high-pressure sometimes. Nevertheless, seeing their cute smiling faces makes it all worthwhile in the end…hopefully!
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Do you have any other travel tips when flying with pets?
A few more ideas – give yourself extra time at the airport due to security checks. Pack essentials in an easy-access bag and keep backup paper copies of documents separate from your carrier. Bring pet toys, towels, and familiar blankets for comfort. Test out the carrier before travel day. And, uh, maybe double-check that cat litter box isn’t overfilled! Experience helps, but keeping calm and positive is the best way to ease anxiety for both you and your pet. Safe travels!