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Many pet owners find Travelling with their dogs daunting, especially regarding air travel. The idea of your furry friend being placed in the cargo hold can be stressful for both of you.
Thankfully, some airlines offer the option to bring your dog into the cabin, ensuring a more comfortable and less anxious experience for your dog and you!
In this article, we will introduce five top airlines that allow dogs in a cabin, making planning your next adventure easier with your pooch. Let’s soar into it!
Why Choose Airlines That Allow Dogs in Cabins?
Flying with your dog in the cabin offers many benefits. It ensures you can keep a close eye on your pet throughout the flight and comforts it.
Plus, many airlines that allow pets onboard go the extra mile with unique services to make travelling easier for both of you.
Here are five airlines that make flying with your furry friend a breeze; let’s take off!
1. Lufthansa
Known for its pet-friendly policies and exceptional customer service, Lufthansa allows small dogs and cats to travel with their owners in the cabin, provided they are in an approved carrier.
But here is the deal: Your furry friend needs to stay cosy in a carrier that fits snugly under the seat before you. The combined weight of your pet and its carrier should not exceed 8 kg (18 lbs).
Lufthansa ensures that your pet will have a comfortable journey, with cabin temperatures and air quality maintained to suit both humans and animals. With a wide range of destinations, Lufthansa is an excellent choice for every pet owner who wants to ensure their dog’s comfort during the flight.
2. Air Canada (AC)
AC makes travelling with your small dog straightforward and stress-free. Your pup can join you in the cabin if it fits comfortably in a soft-sided carrier that slides under the seat before you.
Also, the airline’s staff is ready to help with any pet-related needs, ensuring a smooth journey for you and your furry friend.
However, there are a few rules to keep in mind which your pets are not allowed in the cabin if:
You are an unaccompanied minor.
You are seated in an exit or bulkhead row.
You need to use a medical device under the seat.
You are flying in Premium Economy, as there is not enough space.
Here are the maximum carrier sizes you should understand before using Air Canada services to travel around the globe:
Hard-sided*
Height: 23 cm (9 in)
Width: 40 cm (15.5 in)
Length: 55 cm (21.5 in)
Soft-sided*
Height: 27 cm (10.5 in)
Width: 40 cm (15.5 in)
Length: 55 cm (21.5 in)
*(Include dimensions here based on Air Canada's specific requirements.)
3. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Another airline that recommends that dogs be allowed in the cabin is KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. This airline has built a strong reputation for its pet care policies. They offer excellent pet travel options for cats and dogs, both in the cabin and in the hold, depending on your pet's size and weight.
Here are some of the requirements you need to know:
Pets in the Cabin
Small cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin.
Carrier Requirements:
Your pet must fit comfortably in a soft-sided travel bag or kennel with maximum dimensions of 46 x 28 x 24 cm.
The combined weight of your pet and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17 lbs).
Seating Restrictions:
Pets are permitted in Economy Class and Business Class on European flights.
However, due to space limitations, pets are not allowed in Premium Comfort Class or Business Class on intercontinental flights.
Additional Considerations
Your furry friend needs to be at least 15 weeks old to join you on the journey.
If your pet is a snub-nosed breed, there might be travel limitations due to health concerns.
Before takeoff, make sure you have got all the essentials, such as:**
Travel documents
Vaccinations
Health certificates
**(These should align with the rules of your departure, layover, and destination countries to keep the trip smooth and stress-free).
For detailed information, please visit our page to make arrangements to travel with your beloved pet.
4. Air France
Looking for airlines that allow dogs in cabins? Air France makes it easy and stress-free. Why?
They allow small dogs and cats to travel with you in the cabin if they fit in a soft-sided carrier (max. 46 x 28 x 24 cm) and weigh no more than 8 kg (including the carrier).
Your pets can join you in Economy and Business Class on most flights, but they are not allowed in Premium Economy on long-haul flights because of space limits.
What about the bigger pets?
Air France offers a service to travel on hold. The total weight of your pet and its carrier cannot exceed 75 kg, and the kennel has specific size requirements.
It is important to book your pet’s spot as soon as you can since there is limited space for pets. So, be sure to reserve at least 48 hours before your flight, or you can trust our service to handle everything you need.
Moreover, before you travel, ensure your pet is at least 8 weeks old and has all the proper documents, vaccinations, and health certificates. Also, note that some snub-nosed breeds might have restrictions due to health reasons.
Also Read: How to Travel With a Cat by Car and Plane
Travelling with your dog does not have to be stressful, especially when flying with an airline that allows dogs in a cabin. Whether travelling for business, leisure, or relocating, flying with your dog in the cabin ensures they stay close and comfortable throughout the journey.
For every pet owner who wants a smooth and stress-free pet travel experience, trust Global Paws, which has over 20 years of experience in pet relocation and travel.
As a member of the International Pet & Animal Transport Association (IPATA) and certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LAR), Global Paws is your trusted partner in pet travel.
Contact us today for expert advice and personalised services, ensuring the best experience for you both!
About Global Paws:
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Global Paws is a family-owned business with over 20 years of experience in pet travel and relocation. We know your pets are part of your family, and we care for them like they are part of ours. As proud members of the International Pet & Animal Transport Association (IPATA) and certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LAR), we’re committed to making sure they travel safely and comfortably.
What sets us apart is the extra care we provide. Every pet is treated like family, and we make sure their journey is safe and stress-free, no matter where they are headed.
We believe every pet deserves a first-class experience, and we are here to make sure they are comfortable from start to finish. Our experience, backed by IPATA and IATA, gives you peace of mind knowing your pet’s journey is in safe, loving hands.
Then, are you ready to give VIP treatment for your furry friend? Visit our website to book your pet’s dream vacation today!
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