What Airlines Allow Pets In-Cabin on International Flights?

Lifestyle Jan 8, 2025 97 Add to Reading List

Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience, especially if you're flying to an international destination. Many airlines have become more pet-friendly in recent years, allowing passengers to bring their furry companions along for the journey—though not all airlines are created equal when it comes to in-cabin pet policies.

If you're planning to travel abroad and want to keep your pet by your side, here's a guide to some of the most popular international airlines that allow pets in the cabin.

1. Air France

Air France is known for its pet-friendly policies, especially on long-haul flights. Pets under 8 kg (around 17 lbs), including their carrier, are allowed to travel in the cabin. Larger pets, or pets that exceed the weight limit, must travel in the cargo hold. The carrier must meet the airline's specific size and ventilation requirements, and you’ll need to reserve your pet’s spot in advance.

Key points for Air France:

Maximum pet weight: 8 kg (17 lbs) including carrier.
In-cabin pet travel is available for cats, dogs, and some other small animals.
Reservations for pets are essential and subject to availability.

2. Lufthansa

Lufthansa offers in-cabin travel for pets, with conditions depending on the specific route and aircraft type. For international flights, pets must usually be small enough to fit comfortably under the seat. Pets are allowed on long-haul flights if they weigh less than 8 kg (17.6 lbs) and fit within the airline's carrier size limitations.

Key points for Lufthansa:

Maximum pet weight: 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including the carrier.
Pet-friendly, with dedicated cabins for pet travel on certain flights.
Pets can fly to many international destinations including Europe, North America, and Asia.

3. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

KLM is another airline that welcomes pets in the cabin on international flights. The airline allows small dogs, cats, and rabbits to travel with you, provided they meet the weight and size requirements. Pets must remain in their carrier for the duration of the flight, and the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.

Key points for KLM:

Maximum pet weight: 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including carrier.
Allows pets on most international flights.
Pet reservations should be made well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

4. British Airways

British Airways permits in-cabin pet travel on some international flights, but only to specific countries. For example, pets are allowed on flights between the UK and destinations such as the US, Canada, and select European countries. British Airways has a strict weight limit for in-cabin pets, and passengers are required to make arrangements in advance to secure a spot for their pet.

Key points for British Airways:

Maximum pet weight: 6 kg (13.2 lbs) including carrier.
Pets are allowed in the cabin only on selected routes.
The pet carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.

5. Swiss International Air Lines

Swiss is another European carrier with a generous pet policy for in-cabin travel. Pets weighing up to 8 kg, including the carrier, are welcome to fly in the cabin on international routes. Swiss also provides a comfortable and smooth travel experience for pets, as they have dedicated teams to handle in-cabin and cargo pet services.

Key points for Swiss International Air Lines:

Maximum pet weight: 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including the carrier.
Pets must remain in their carrier under the seat during the flight.
Pet reservations should be made in advance.

6. United Airlines

United Airlines offers a pet-friendly program called "PetSafe," which allows pets to travel in the cabin on international flights as long as they meet the weight and size requirements. United offers in-cabin travel for pets on both short and long-haul flights to various international destinations.

Key points for United Airlines:

Maximum pet weight: 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including carrier.
Pets are allowed in the cabin on international flights to select destinations like Europe, Canada, and Asia.
Reservations are required in advance, and there’s a limit on how many pets can travel per flight.

7. Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines allows pets to travel in the cabin on international flights. Pets must be in a carrier that fits under the seat, and the maximum weight for in-cabin pets is 8 kg (17.6 lbs). Turkish Airlines is well-regarded for its pet-friendly policies, offering comfortable travel for animals, even on long flights.

Key points for Turkish Airlines:

Maximum pet weight: 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including carrier.
Allows pets in the cabin on international routes, including Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Reservations must be made in advance.

8. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is another airline with a strong reputation for being pet-friendly. The airline allows pets under 8 kg (17.6 lbs) in the cabin on international flights. The carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat, and the pet must remain inside the carrier throughout the journey.

Key points for Qatar Airways:

Maximum pet weight: 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including carrier.
Pets can travel to international destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Pet travel is limited to specific routes and should be booked in advance.

9. Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines offers in-cabin pet travel for small pets on selected international routes. The weight limit for in-cabin pets is typically under 7 kg (15.4 lbs), and the pet must be transported in an IATA-approved carrier that fits under the seat. Singapore Airlines is known for its high standard of service, which extends to pets traveling in the cabin.

Key points for Singapore Airlines:

Maximum pet weight: 7 kg (15.4 lbs) including carrier.
Pets are allowed on selected international flights.
Advanced reservations are required, especially during peak seasons.

10. Emirates Airlines

Emirates is known for its luxury services, and that extends to its pet travel options. For in-cabin travel, pets must be small enough to fit under the seat and weigh no more than 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including their carrier. Emirates allows pets to travel to a variety of international destinations, though you’ll need to confirm their specific pet policies based on your route.

Key points for Emirates Airlines:

Maximum pet weight: 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including carrier.
In-cabin pet travel is allowed on select international routes.
Pre-booking is essential to ensure space for your pet.

Things to Consider When Flying With Pets Internationally

Pet Health and Documentation: Make sure your pet is fit to travel and that you have the necessary vaccinations, health certificates, and documentation to meet the entry requirements of your destination country.
Airline-Specific Rules: Each airline has its own regulations, including pet carrier size, weight limits, and specific country requirements, so it’s important to double-check before booking.
Cost of Pet Travel: In-cabin pet travel usually comes with an additional fee, which can vary depending on the airline and flight route. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 USD for international flights.
Preparing Your Pet for Flight: The journey may be stressful for your pet, so it's essential to prepare them for the flight. This includes familiarizing them with their travel carrier, ensuring they're comfortable during the flight, and considering their behavior and well-being during the trip.

Final Thoughts

Flying with your pet on an international journey can be a smooth experience if you plan ahead. By choosing one of these pet-friendly airlines and making the necessary preparations, you can enjoy the adventure together. Just remember to check specific requirements and book early, as airlines often limit the number of pets allowed per flight. Safe travels for both you and your furry friend!