Pet friendly airlines: Which one is the perfect for you?

Traveling with pets used to feel like navigating turbulence before even reaching the airport. Today, however, many airlines have improved their policies, services, and transparency, making it far easier to fly with four-legged companions. Still, not all airlines treat pet travel equally, and choosing the wrong one can turn an exciting trip into a stressful experience.

The most pet friendly airlines are those that combine clear rules, humane transport conditions, reasonable fees, and consistent communication. In other words, they don’t leave pet owners guessing. Whether your pet travels in the cabin, in the hold, or through a dedicated cargo service, the airline’s approach matters just as much as the destination.

To identify which airlines are most pet friendly, we evaluated several key parameters:

• Availability of in-cabin and cargo pet travel.
• Weight, size, age, and breed restrictions.
• Required documentation for booking and boarding.
• Average extra costs for pet transport.
• Geographic coverage across major travel regions.

If you’ve ever wondered what airlines are pet friendly and which ones are better suited for international or long haul trips, this post will help you compare reliable options across the globe and choose the one that best fits your pet’s needs.

Air Canada

Air Canada earns its place among the most pet friendly airlines thanks to its structured approach to pet travel and consistent policies across domestic and international routes. The airline allows small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on many flights, while larger pets can be transported via its climate-controlled cargo service, which is closely monitored during the journey.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• In-cabin pets must fit comfortably in a soft-sided carrier under the seat.
• Maximum combined pet and carrier weight is typically 10 kg (22 lbs).
• Pets must be at least 10 weeks old.
• Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds such as bulldogs and pugs are restricted from 
• cargo travel.
• Some aircraft types do not accept pets at all.

Required documentation

• Health certificate from a licensed veterinarian.
• Vaccination records (especially for international travel).
• Microchip and import permits for international destinations.
• Advance reservation required, as cabin spots are limited.

Extra payments

• In-cabin pets: approximately $50 – 60 USD domestic, $100+ international.
• Cargo services: usually $100 – 300+, depending on route and size.

American Airlines

American Airlines offers both in-cabin pet travel and a dedicated cargo program, making it a reliable option for travelers asking what airlines are pet friendly in the U.S. While its policies are slightly more restrictive than some competitors, the airline compensates with clear documentation requirements and wide route availability.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• In-cabin pets must fit under the seat in front of you.
• Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
• Cargo transport is not available on all routes or during extreme temperatures.
• Several brachycephalic breeds are restricted.

Required documentation

• Health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
• Vaccination records.
• International flights may require customs and import approvals.

Extra payments

• In-cabin fee: $125 per flight.
• Cargo fees typically start around $200, increasing by size and distance.

Lufthansa

Lufthansa is often cited when travelers ask which airlines are most pet friendly, particularly for international routes. The airline offers multiple pet transport options—in cabin, as excess baggage, or via Lufthansa cargo, giving flexibility based on pet size and destination. Its cargo facilities are designed with animal welfare in mind, including temperature and pressure control.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• In-cabin pets up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including carrier.
• Pets must be at least 12 weeks old for international flights.
• Breed restrictions apply for cargo travel.
• Some countries prohibit in-cabin pets entirely.

Required documentation

• EU pet passport (for travel within the EU).
• Microchip and rabies vaccination.
• Health certificate for non-EU destinations.
• Advance booking strongly recommended.

Extra payments

• Cabin pets: $60 – 80 (short haul),  $120+ (long haul).
• Cargo or excess baggage: $100 – 400+.

Air France

Air France stands out for offering relatively flexible pet travel options and clearly communicating requirements ahead of time. It allows small pets in the cabin on many routes and provides specialized cargo handling for larger animals, making it a dependable choice for European and transatlantic travel.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• In-cabin pets up to 8 kg.
• Pets must be at least 10 weeks old.
• Snub-nosed breeds face cargo restrictions.
• Some destinations restrict in-cabin pet entry.

Required documentation

• Veterinary health certificate.
• Rabies vaccination proof.
• Destination-specific import permits.

Extra payments

• In-cabin pets: $45 – 125, depending on route.
• Cargo fees vary widely based on weight and destination.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

KLM is often chosen by international travelers for its organized pet transport procedures and coordination with cargo services. While in-cabin pet availability is limited, its cargo handling is known for reliability and safety.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• Limited in-cabin availability.
• Weight and crate size restrictions apply.
• Breed restrictions enforced for cargo.

Required documentation

• Health Certificate.
• Vaccination records.
• Import/export permits.

Extra payments

• In-cabin pets range between $75 – 200.
• Cargo pricing varies.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is frequently chosen for long-haul pet travel due to its advanced cargo facilities at Hamad International Airport. While most pets travel as cargo, the airline’s temperature-controlled environments and professional handling make it one of the more reliable options for international relocation.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• Pets usually travel as cargo only.
• Breed and size restrictions apply.
• Pets must be at least 12 weeks old.

Required documentation

• Veterinary health certificate.
• Import/exports permits.
• Vaccination and microchip records.

Extra payments

• Cargo transport typically starts around $200 – 500.

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines (JAL) is considered one of the more reliable Asian carriers for pet travel due to its strict animal welfare standards, careful handling procedures, and coordination with Japan’s highly regulated quarantine system. While pets are not allowed in the cabin, JAL provides a structured cargo transport process designed to minimize stress, making it a common choice for travelers relocating to or from Japan.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• Pets must travel in the cargo hold only.
• Minimum age is typically 8 weeks, but 12 weeks or older is recommended for international travel.
• Maximum combined weight (pet + crate) generally up to 45 kg (99 lbs); heavier animals may require special arrangements.
• Crates must meet IATA Live Animal Regulations.
• Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds may face restrictions or be refused, especially in warmer months.

Required documentation

• Veterinary health certificate issued shortly before departure.
• Proof of rabies vaccination.
• Microchip (ISO-compliant).
• Advance notification and approval from the airline.
• For entry to Japan:
  • Advance notification to Japanese animal quarantine service.
  • Import quarantine documentation (often required weeks in advance).

Extra payments

• Pet transport fees generally range from $150 – 400, depending on weight, crate size, and route.
• Additional quarantine or handling fees may apply upon arrival in Japan.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines is widely used for international pet relocation because of its highly regulated cargo operations and strong coordination with destination authorities. While pets are not permitted in the cabin, the airline operates temperature and pressure-controlled cargo holds and follows IATA Live Animal Regulations strictly. It is particularly popular for long-haul routes involving Asia, Europe, and Oceania.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• Pets must travel as cargo only.
• Minimum age: typically 3 months (12 weeks).
• Crates must be IATA-compliant, rigid, well-ventilated, and escape proof.
• Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds may be restricted or refused.
• Some routes and aircraft types do not accept live animals.

Required documentation

• Veterinary health certificate issued close to departure.
• Rabies vaccination certificate.
• ISO-compliant microchip.
• Import/export permits required by the destination country.
• Advance booking through Singapore Airlines cargo is mandatory.

Extra payments

• Cargo fees usually start at $250 – 600+, depending on pet size, crate dimensions, and route.
• Additional ground handling or customs fees may apply.

Qantas

Qantas offers structured and reliable pet transport services on domestic flights within Australia, adhering to strict animal welfare and biosecurity standards. While international pet travel is handled through specialized partners rather than standard passenger flights, Qantas remains a trusted option for domestic relocations.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• Pets travel in the cargo hold only.
• Minimum age is generally 8 weeks.
• Crates must comply with IATA standards.
• Snub-nosed dog and cat breeds are restricted.
• Certain routes and seasonal periods may limit availability.

Required documentation

• Veterinary health certificate.
• Proof of current vaccinations.
• For international relocation: Australian government import/export permits (handled via approved agents).

Extra payments

• Domestic pet transport typically costs $200 – 400, depending on distance and animal size.
• International transport costs vary significantly due to quarantine and biosecurity rules.

Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand is commonly used for domestic pet travel and international relocations through approved pet transport companies. The airline is known for careful handling procedures and clear coordination with New Zealand’s strict biosecurity and quarantine requirements.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• Pets must travel as cargo only.
• Minimum age is usually 10 – 12 weeks.
• Crates must meet IATA Live Animal Regulations.
• Breed restrictions apply, especially for brachycephalic animals.
• Some aircraft types do not accept pets.

Required documentation

• Veterinary health certificate.
• Rabies vaccination and microchip.
• Import/export permits required by New Zealand authorities.
• Pre-approval and advance booking required.

Extra payments

• Domestic transport fees generally range from $150 – 350.
• International relocation costs are higher due to quarantine and compliance requirements.

Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines is one of the most frequently cited African carriers when discussing pet friendly airlines for international and long-haul travel. It operates a well-developed cargo division with temperature-controlled holds and extensive intercontinental routes, making it a practical option for relocating with pets between Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• Pets typically travel as cargo.
• Minimum age is generally 12 weeks.
• Breed restrictions apply, particularly for snub-nosed dogs.
• Crate requirements are strictly enforced.

Required documentation

• Veterinary health certificate.
• Rabies vaccination and microchip.
• Import/export permits for destination countries.

Extra payments

• Cargo fees usually start around $200 – 600+, depending on route and animal size.

Avianca

Avianca is a strong option in South America and Central America for travelers searching for pet-friendly airlines in the region. The airline permits small cats and dogs in the cabin transport for larger pets. Avianca is often chosen for regional travel due to its route coverage and relatively straightforward booking process.

Special limitations (weight, age, breed)

• In-cabin pets are usually limited to 8 kg including the carrier.
• Pets must be at least 4 months old (16 weeks) on some international routes.
• Certain dog breeds are restricted from cargo travel.
• Limited number of pets allowed per flight.

Required documentation

• Veterinary health certificate.
• Vaccination records.
• Country-specific imports permits.

Extra payments

• In-cabin pets: around $100 – 150.
• Cargo transport : $200 – 500+, depending on size and distance.

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Choosing the right airline for you and your pet

When comparing pet friendly airlines, the best option depends on your pet’s size, breed, destination, and travel duration. Airlines like Lufthansa and Air France offer flexibility for in-cabin travel, while carriers such as Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines excel in long-haul cargo transport. Domestic travelers in Oceania benefit from structured services offered by Qantas and Air New Zealand.

Ultimately, the most pet-friendly airlines are those that combine transparency, safety, and consistency. By understanding airline policies in advance, you can ensure a smoother journey for both you and your pet.

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Queendaline Akaemeuwa

English Copywriter

English Copywriter at Holafly, I'm committed to sharing tips that will make your travel experiences memorable.  Over the years as a writer and strategist, I've managed teams across multiple industries - SaaS, tech, real estate, and personal brands. I wrote my first book as a child and have been writing ever since, cooking and reading are a few ways I explore my world.

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