Understanding Volaris Pet Travel Policy
If you’re planning on traveling with your furry friend on Volaris, here’s a breakdown of their pet travel policies to help you prepare. From my experience flying with pets both domestically and internationally, having a solid grasp of the airline’s rules is crucial for a smooth journey.
Eligible Pets
Volaris only allows cats and dogs to travel as carry-on pets. Other animals like birds, rodents or reptiles are not permitted in the cabin. The pet must be at least 10 weeks old and travel in an approved soft-sided or hard-sided kennel that fits completely under the seat in front of you.
Advance Booking & Health Certification
All pets flying with Volaris must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll also need to provide a valid health certificate from a licensed veterinarian stating that your pet is fit to travel. The certificate can’t be older than 10 days at the time of travel. Come prepared with all required documents to avoid issues at check-in.
Kennel Requirements
Your pet’s kennel plays a big role in whether they can board the flight. It needs to be big enough for your pet to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. However, it can’t exceed
- 17 inches long by 12 inches wide by 7 inches high for dogs and cats under 10 lbs
- 19 inches long by 13 inches wide by 8 inches high for pets 10-20 lbs
- 21 inches long by 16 inches wide by 11 inches high for pets 20-40 lbs
Regardless of size, the kennel must securely close and have proper drainage.

Quarantine When Flying Internationally
If you want to take your pet abroad on Volaris, be aware that quarantine rules vary greatly between countries. Many nations enforce anywhere from 10-30 day isolation periods upon arrival. It’s essential to research quarantine procedures for your destination well in advance. From my experience, it can be kind of a hassle but worth it to travel with pets sometimes.
Fees & Booking Limits
Volaris charges $45 USD each way for carrying on a pet. You’re allowed one pet per passenger with a maximum of two pets per reservation. Watch out for blackout dates too around busy travel periods. All in all, Volaris pet service is fairly reasonable compared to other airlines in my opinion. Not too cheap to cut corners on safety.
During the Flight
Once onboard, keep your pet kennel securely stowed under the seat in front of you for the entire flight. Volaris flight attendants may occasionally check that pets are doing okay. It helps to bring water, a leash and poop bags. Also try to keep your pet calm if they get anxious flying. Overall flying domestic routes with Volaris has gone smoothly whenever I’ve brought my pup along.
Real-Life Example
Here’s a real example of flying my cat Milo on a Volaris route from Mexico City to Cancun last summer: his health certificate was ready, kennel dimensions were correct, I booked online 24 hours in advance and paid $45 each way. Check-in went smoothly once they reviewed docs. During the 1.5 hour flight, Milo snoozed quietly under the seat. Border officials didnt scrutinize him upon arrival either. It was an easy trip despite Milo’s usual aversion to car rides! So with some planning, Volaris can get pets to destinations stress-free.
Alternatives If Problems Arise
No journey is without hiccups sometimes. If issues pop up before or during your Volaris pet trip, a few backup plans could save the day. First, see if you can gate-check the kennel instead of carrying on if size is an issue. Family or friends driving may be willing to pet-sit last minute too if the animal can’t fly. As a last resort, delay traveling until the pet is cleared. Itβs kinda a bummer but better than stranding fluffy. With some slick moves you can sort most dilemmas!

Tips For a Stress-Free Flight
To wrap up, here are some top tips to help keep your pet calm and comfortable during Volaris flights: get them used to the kennel before trips, use calming treats if anxious, bring favorite toys/blankets, time bathroom breaks optimally, interact positively pre-flight and reassure them with affection. Crating near the boarding area vs your seat may also reduce stress. And chill, your furry friend will probably snooze through most of it like they do car rides! With a little prep work flying pets on Volaris can be a breeze.
I hope this breakdown of Volaris’ pet travel policies helps provide answers to any questions you may have had. Flying pets domestically takes some planning but Volaris makes it pretty straightforward in my experience. Just be sure to follow all rules and have documents ready. Wishing you and your four-legged companion smooth sailing on your next adventure together!
Volaris Pet Travel Policy
Pet Type | Size/Weight Limit | Cabin or Cargo | Advance Notice | Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cats and Dogs | Under 10 lbs | Cabin (carrier under seat) | At booking | $75 USD each way |
Cats and Dogs | 10-20 lbs | Cabin (carrier under seat) | At booking | $125 USD each way |
Snakes, Birds, Hamsters | Follow IATA standards | Cabin or Cargo (based on size) | At booking | Varies by pet/flight |
Emotional Support/Service Animals | Follow ACAA regulations | Cabin | 48 hours advance notice | Free with paperwork |
FAQ
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Can I bring my pet on board?
Volaris allows only small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin as long as they remain in their carrier under the seat for the whole flight. Larger pets need to be checked into the cargo hold.
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What documents do I need for my pet?
You basically need a health certificate from your veterinarian saying that your pet is fit to travel. The certificate can’t be older than 10 days. You’ll also need proof of current vaccinations and the pet must be microchipped or wear an ID tag.
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Is there an extra charge for my pet?
Yep, there is a fee for bringing a pet on board that can vary depending on the animal’s weight and size of carrier. It ranges from around $75 to $125 perpet each way.
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What if my pet is scared of flying?
The vet can give medication to help calm anxious pets for the journey. You could also try getting your pet used to the carrier beforehand and bring along some familiar toys or treats. But is it worth stressing out Fido for a long flight? Maybe drive if it’s not too far.
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Can I sit with my pet?
No, pets must remain in their carrier under the seat or in the cargo hold for the whole flight due to safety and cleaning concerns. It’s the rules. You kind of have to accept it to fly with pets on Volaris.
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What size carrier is allowed?
The max dimensions are 18 inches long by 14 inches wide by 8 inches tall. Basically it should fit comfortably under the seat in front of you without sticking into the passenger area. Measure twice and bring a tape measurer! Oversized carriers won’t be permitted in the cabin.
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Is there a weight limit?
Pets, including the carrier, must not exceed 20 pounds total. Anything over that massive weight has to ride cargo hold. While dogs up to 20 pounds are OK, really huge cats may be asked to check-in too due to space concerns. Always check restrictions before you fly with your furry friend.
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What if my pet gets stressed on the flight?
Some pets get uneasy during take-offs and landings when air pressure changes. You can try calming treats or toys. Nevertheless, if your pet causes any disturbance such as loud noises or tries to exit the carrier, you’ll be asked to check it cargo. As much as we all love our pets, other passengers’ comfort comes first on Volaris flights.
On the other hand, remember that flying can be tiring and unpleasant experience for animals too. Perhaps driving or taking a bus might be less awful on Fido if your destination is relatively near. What do you think, readers – is it fair to subject pets to air travel? I’d love to hear other people’s opinions on this amazing yet controversial topic!