International Airline Pet Policies & Crate Rules

Lufthansa is one of the most pet-friendly European carriers, permitting small dogs and cats up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs) in the passenger cabin. Larger animals travel in pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo holds with layover care at the world-renowned Frankfurt Animal Lounge.

Under UK statutory biosecurity laws, British Airways does not permit any companion pets in the passenger cabin on commercial flights (except recognized assistance dogs certified by ADI or IGDF). All companion dogs and cats must travel as manifest cargo via IAG Cargo.

Delta Air Lines permits small dogs, cats, and household birds to travel in the passenger cabin on most domestic and selected international flights. Pets must remain inside an approved carrier under the seat in front for the entire duration of the flight.

Air France enables companion pets to travel in the passenger cabin (up to 8 kg / 17.6 lbs total weight) or in the ventilated, heated cargo hold (up to 75 kg / 165 lbs combined weight). Pets transiting Paris CDG benefit from direct EU border inspection protocols.

Emirates operates one of the most advanced live animal logistics hubs in the world via Emirates SkyCargo. Except for service dogs for the visually impaired and falcons between specific Middle Eastern destinations, all companion dogs and cats must travel as cargo.

United Airlines welcomes domesticated dogs and cats to travel in the aircraft cabin on domestic and select international flights when space is available. The pet must remain inside an airline-approved hard or soft kennel that fits under the seat in front of the customer.

American Airlines allows small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on qualifying flights up to 12 hours (or within the 48 contiguous United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean). The pet must stay in their kennel under the seat for the flight.

Qatar Airways does not permit companion dogs or cats in the passenger cabin (except service animals and falcons in Economy Class). Companion pets travel as checked baggage or manifest cargo in pressurized, temperature-regulated holds with transit care at Hamad International Airport (DOH).

KLM is renowned for its animal-friendly services, housing the world’s largest airline Animal Hotel at Amsterdam Schiphol. Small dogs and cats can fly in-cabin up to 8 kg, while larger pets travel in temperature-controlled holds.

In compliance with United Kingdom DEFRA regulations, Virgin Atlantic does not permit companion pets in the passenger cabin (except recognized assistance dogs). All companion animals must fly as manifest cargo in pressurized, temperature-monitored holds via Virgin Atlantic Cargo.