Pet Carriers

When we think of traveling with our pets, we often anticipate the excursions, new experiences, and enjoyment, but we blissfully forget about the voyage that must occur in order to go from one location to another. This huge in-between includes, of course, selecting a pet-friendly flight, gathering all of the documentation required by the airline, and making arrangements for your beloved baby's airline-approved safe and happy voyage. Finding an appropriate carrier for your pet is the first step. For this, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has established some guidelines. Most airlines can and do change these rules to suit their particular aircraft. Some of their basic rules and instructions are described below by us (Airlines Pet Policy).

Here are a few reminders to keep in mind in order to comply with IATA regulations:

Size and Weight of the Pet

In most cases, only small cats, dogs, and domestic birds are allowed in the cabin. Other pets that do not meet the in-cabin rules are flown as checked luggage or in the hold. Though, at the time, only a few planes offer that option. Pet-friendly cargo holds are well-ventilated, temperature- and light-controlled environments that ensure your pet is as comfortable as possible during the flight.

Carrier for your Pet that has been approved by the Airlines

The number of pets allowed in the cabin of a single trip is normally limited to four by most airlines. And each traveler will be allowed only one pet and one carrier. Small pups or kittens of the same breed that can travel together in one airline-approved carrier are an exception. When selecting a carrier for your pet, there are several factors to consider.

The first thing to keep in mind is that your pet should be completely at ease when inside the carrier. The term "comfortable" refers to the size of the carrier, which should allow your pet to sit, stand, turn around, stretch, and lie down without difficulty.

The airline is the second factor to consider. Small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin if they can fit under the seat without taking up too much space on the aisle. That implies the carrier should be small enough to fit beneath the seat in front of you without squeezing. Every airline will have various dimensions and facilities for the same, so double-check the exact measurements and weight restrictions before purchasing the carrier. If your pet is not qualified to fly in-cabin and must instead be transported via cargo or checked baggage, different measurements will apply.

Features of the In-Cabin Carrier

Extra cushions should be added to the inside of the carrier to absorb any spills. It should be well ventilated from two sides at the very least. Because the pet should not be able to stick any body part out of the carrier, mesh ventilation is excellent. Hard-sided or soft-sided in-cabin carriers are available. The maximum dimensions of the in-cabin carrier will vary according to the airline, but it should be roughly 18′′ L x 14′′ W x 9′′ H.

Features of Cargo and Checked Bag Carrier

The carrier that will be used to transport dogs as cargo or checked luggage must be hard-sided, constructed of metal or wood, and have a strong roof as well as absorbent padding. Because many airlines will not accept wooden carriers, metal is always recommended. It should have three to four sides of ventilation. These carriers must include interior food and drink containers that may be refilled without having to open the securely closed metal door. This will vary depending on the airlines, but the cargo carrier's maximum dimensions should be roughly 40" L x 27" W × 30" H.

Last but not least, the carrier must be clearly labeled as "LIVE ANIMAL" and include the pet parents' contact information as well as other pertinent information such as the pet's name and feeding instructions.

Check out our airline pet policy pages for more information on the regulations of various airlines.