Which Airlines are Still Allowing Pets in Cargo During Covid-2024 – A Guide to Pet-Friendly Airline Cargo Policies

Which Airlines Allow Pets in Cargo During COVID-19 in 2022?

If you’re planning to travel with your furry companion in cargo but aren’t sure which airlines allow it during the ongoing pandemic, read on. I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on airline pet policies for 2022 based on my research.

Delta Airlines Pet Policy

From my experience booking pets on Delta, they have remained fairly pet-friendly throughout COVID-19 with some precautions. Pets up to 100 pounds can travel in the cargo hold on most international routes as long as they are at least 8 weeks old. However, certain countries may have additional entry requirements so be sure to check well in advance.

Delta requires pets to be in an IATA-compliant travel kennel that’s properly labeled and allows them to stand comfortably and turn around. Kennels must also have proper ventilation. I’d also recommend adding pee pads, their favorite toy or blanket, and water for longer flights.

According to Delta’s website, they have not reported any pet transport issues related to COVID-19. All pets are screened for signs of illness before travel and staff take precautions like masks and distancing. Cargo areas are also cleaned thoroughly. So in my experience, Delta seems like a reliable option currently.

United Airlines Pet Policy

United Airlines basically allows cats and dogs in the cargo hold on most international routes if they meet size and kennel requirements. Pets must be at least 10 weeks old and under 100 pounds. However, similar to Delta, different countries may impose additional rules.

From what I’ve read online, many pet owners have faced situations at United where their animals got delayed or lost during the pandemic due to lack ofstaff or plane changes. This could mean extended time in cargo without food, water or breaks.

While United says it has not seen a rise in pet incidents, the risk of delays appears to be higher than usual. So those traveling with United should prepare for potential issues and consider flying Delta if delays could be harmful for their pet’s health.

American Airlines Pet Policy

American Airlines policies are kind of similar – they accept cats and dogs under 100 pounds on most international routes. However, unlike the others, American has temporarily suspended pet checked baggage service on certain domestic routes due to staffing issues caused by COVID-19.

According to a pet transporter I spoke with, American has faced more problems with pet delays than Delta or United. On a recent trip, her client’s dog was misrouted and left in cargo for over 24 hours without being offered food or water. While delays can happen to any airline, she felt American was less prepared.

So if reliability is a top concern, I’d probably avoid American for now. But their international pet service appears to be running normally if you don’t have domestic connections. Just be prepared for potential delays.

Other International Airline Pet Policies

Here are the basic policies for a few other major international carriers:

1. KLM: Allows cats and dogs under 13kg/30lbs in cargo on most routes if properly crated. No pet bans reported during COVID-19.
2. British Airways: Accepts pets up to about 22kg/50lbs on long-haul flights in approved kennels. No major COVID-related changes to note.
3. Lufthansa: Pets under 8kg/18lbs allowed in cabin; larger pets in cargo on most routes. No pet transport service suspensions due to coronavirus.

Of course, every airline has its pros and cons. So make sure to thoroughly vet policies and read recent reviews related to COVID-19 before booking your pet’s flight.

Tips for Flying With Pets During COVID-19

Now that we know which airlines are still transporting pets and their basic guidelines, here are some additional tips from my experience for ensuring safe pet travel during the pandemic:

• Contact airlines way in advance about any rule changes or capacity limitations. Policies may evolve.
• Consider shipping vaccines/health certificates ASAP if required by departure/arrival countries to avoid delays.
• Bring extra food, water, toys, and medications in your carry-on in case it takes longer than projected. Poor ventilation and lack of breaks could cause stress for your pet.
• Avoid connecting flights if possible as changes are disruptions are more probable right now and could cause delays.
• Confirm advance notice requirements for scheduling cargo pickups as staffing issues could impact timeliness.
• Ask airlines about new cleaning/safety procedures for cargo areas holding animals. Transmission between species is low but still minimize risks.
• Check with your vet for any other COVID-era precautions or health clearances necessary before international pet travel.

Hope this helps you choose an airline and thoroughly prepare for flying with Fido or Fluffy during these uncertain times! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Other Pet Travel Options to Consider

While flying directly in cargo is convenient, here are some alternatives to mull over based on what I’ve seen work well for others:

One pet owner I know basically drove over land and took ferries rather than fly with her anxious dog. It was a bit long but less stressful. You can also look into commercial pet transporters who drive pets in dedicated vehicles, though it will probably cost more.

International pet relocation services can also ship animals as air or ocean freight if flying isn’t an option. They know import rules cold and offer temp housing at destination if needed.

Lastly, see if anyone you know is traveling the same route nonstop who could pet-sit en route. Pets may have an easier time as companions versus solitary cargo critters.

Hope these ideas give you some potential alternatives in case conditions change or you need a low-stress transport method. Safe travels to you and your pet!

Airlines That Allow Pets in Cargo During Covid 2022

Airline	Size/Weight Limit	Requirements	Travel Times
Delta	Under 70 lbs	Health certificate, kennel	Varies by route
United	Under 100 lbs	Health certificate, kennel	Varies by route
American	Under 100 lbs	Health certificate, kennel	Varies by route
Alaska	Under 75 lbs	Health certificate, kennel	Varies by route
JetBlue	No pets in cargo	N/A	N/A

FAQ

1. Which airlines currently allow pets to travel in the cargo hold during COVID-19?

   A few major airlines like Delta, American, and United will transport pets in the cargo hold, but policies and procedures have become more strict due to the pandemic. Pet owners must follow all guidelines regarding health documents, vaccinations, schedules, and other rules set by each airline.

2. Do I need any special documents for my pet to fly in cargo?

   Yes, you’ll basically need a certificate from your vet stating that your dog or cat is fit to travel and show records of all required vaccinations within a certain timeframe prior to the flight. Some airlines may require additional documents like an Import Permit from the destination country. It’s best to check specifics with the airline well in advance.

3. Is it safe for pets to be in the cargo hold?

   Despite the airlines taking many precautions, the cargo hold is still definitely not as comfortable an environment for animals as the passenger cabin. Things like loud noises, varying temperatures, and less frequent checks can appear worrisome. However, millions of pets do make this trip annually with no serious issues. With the right precautions, it appears cargo transport can be a reasonable option when there’s no other choice.

4. What kinds of animals are restricted from flying in cargo?

   Certain animals are not allowed in cargo due to health, safety or legal issues. This includes exotic pets, snub-nosed breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs, young puppies or kittens, and animals that do not travel well such as rabbits. It’s best to confirm if your pet is on the accepted list before booking cargo flights.

5. Does my pet need to go directly into quarantine after an international cargo flight?

   Quarantine rules often depend on the destination country. Some places may require pets to stay at an airport facility for 10 days following a cargo flight from abroad. Others have restrictions on certain high-risk countries but not all. You should research regulations for your pet’s specific journey to avoid surprises!

   

While air cargo transport allows pets to accompany owners on long trips, it’s definitely not the same as flying in the cabin. Many pet owners say it’s simply not worth compromising an animal’s comfort in this way if there’s another option available. On the other hand, if used judiciously by following airline instructions, cargo travel isn’t necessarily as terrible as some think.

In summary – check airline policies thoroughly, have all necessary forms prepared well in advance, and consider if cargo transport is truly your pet’s only choice. Perhaps conferring with your vet for guidance is also wise before booking such a flight. Comfort should come before convenience when it’s your furry friend’s wellbeing at stake!