Airline Policies for Pet Travel (2025)

Flying with pets in 2025 requires careful planning. Each airline has its own set of rules regarding which pets are allowed, where they can travel (cabin vs. cargo), and how they must be contained. These policies also vary by country, season, and even breed.

For travelers in G7 countries, navigating these policies is especially important due to cross-border regulations, pet passport requirements, and carrier-specific rules. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, staying informed can help ensure a smooth journey for you and your pet.

American Airlines

• Pets Allowed: Dogs and cats only
• In-Cabin: Allowed for pets under 20 lbs (carrier + pet), soft-sided carriers must fit under seat
• Cargo: Only via American Airlines Cargo, embargoes apply during extreme heat/cold
• Fees: $125 one-way (domestic), $200 international
• Booking: Must book in advance; limited spots per flight
• Restrictions: Snub-nosed breeds restricted in cargo
• Pet Policy

Delta Airlines

• Pets Allowed: Dogs, cats, and household birds (domestic flights)
• In-Cabin: Under-seat carrier; max weight: ~18 lbs
• Cargo: Currently suspended for pets as checked baggage
• Fees: $95 (domestic), $200 (international)
• Booking: Call to reserve pet space in advance
• Restrictions: Some international destinations do not allow pet entry
• Pet Policy

Air Canada

• Pets Allowed: Cats and dogs
• In-Cabin: Allowed for small pets under 10 kg (22 lbs) including carrier
• Cargo: Available through Air Canada Cargo year-round
• Fees: CAD $50–$118 (domestic), CAD $100–$118 (international)
• Booking: Book at time of reservation or add later (limited space)
• Restrictions: Breed-specific embargoes for short-nosed dogs
• Pet Policy

British Airways

• Pets Allowed: Dogs and cats (no in-cabin travel)
• In-Cabin: Not permitted unless it’s a registered assistance dog
• Cargo: All pets must travel in cargo via IAG Cargo
• Fees: Varies by destination and size (contact IAG Cargo)
• Booking: Contact IAG Cargo; not handled with ticket booking
• Restrictions: All pets must arrive 6+ hours before departure
• Pet Policy

Lufthansa

• Pets Allowed: Dogs and cats
• In-Cabin: Allowed for pets up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including carrier
• Cargo: Available for larger pets; year-round service
• Fees: €55–€150 depending on route and size
• Booking: Add pets during or after booking; forms required
• Restrictions: Breed-specific rules for aggressive or snub-nosed dogs
• Pet Policy

Air France

• Pets Allowed: Cats and dogs (under 8 kg in cabin)
• In-Cabin: Allowed in approved carrier up to 46 x 28 x 24 cm
• Cargo: Pets over 8 kg must fly in the hold
• Fees: €40–200 depending on destination and mode
• Booking: Must confirm by phone at least 48 hours in advance
• Restrictions: Short-nosed pets restricted during warmer months
• Pet Policy

Japan Airlines (JAL)

• Pets Allowed: Dogs, cats, birds, rabbits
• In-Cabin: Not allowed (except service dogs)
• Cargo: Domestic: permitted with reservation; International: varies
• Fees: Varies by destination (starting at JPY ¥5,000 domestic)
• Booking: Must be made in advance
• Restrictions: Temperature/weather embargoes may apply
• Pet Policy

ITA Airways

• Pets Allowed: Cats and dogs
• In-Cabin: Allowed up to 8 kg (pet + carrier)
• Cargo: Available for larger pets
• Fees: €70–150 depending on destination
• Booking: Required 48 hours in advance
• Restrictions: Specific breeds may be banned or require special carriers
• Pet Policy

ANA (All Nippon Airways)

• Pets Allowed: Dogs, cats, small birds, rabbits, hamsters
• In-Cabin: Not allowed (except service dogs)
• Cargo: Permitted with advance booking
• Fees: JPY ¥5,000+ (domestic), varies internationally
• Booking: At least 72 hours in advance
• Restrictions: Climate-based embargoes; breed-specific rules
• Pet Policy

When traveling in the cabin, your carrier must be airline-compliant:

• Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier (fits most in-cabin requirements)
  👉 View on Amazon
• Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Carrier (crash-tested, premium option)
  👉 View on Chewy
• Petmate Sky Kennel (IATA-compliant for cargo travel)
  👉 View on Amazon

Be sure to check with your airline for maximum dimensions, which may differ by aircraft.

• EU countries (France, Germany, Italy) require a valid EU Pet Passport or animal health certificate for non-EU travelers (like the UK).
• UK travelers must meet pet microchipping and rabies vaccination rules.
• Canada & US cross-border travel often requires proof of rabies vaccination.
• Japan has strict import rules, including microchip and advance quarantine forms (apply 40+ days before travel).

Check with your destination’s agriculture or customs office for entry-specific requirements.

• ✈️ Check your airline’s latest pet policy here to confirm before booking
• 👜 Shop airline-approved pet carriers on Amazon to ensure compliance

Can my pet fly internationally in the cabin?

It depends on the airline. American Airlines, Air Canada, Lufthansa, and Air France allow small pets in the cabin. British Airways, ANA, and JAL do not.

What are the 2025 pet carrier size limits?

Most airlines require soft-sided carriers to fit under the seat, with dimensions ranging from 18″ x 11″ x 11″ to 18″ x 14″ x 9″, depending on the aircraft.

Are emotional support animals still allowed?

As of 2025, most major airlines no longer recognize emotional support animals (ESAs) as service animals. They must travel as pets, following regular pet travel rules.