Best Airlines for Pet Travel: A Guide to Pet Friendly Airlines

Traveling with pets requires careful planning, especially when flying internationally. Choosing the right airline can make all the difference in ensuring your pet’s journey is safe, comfortable, and stress-free. At Anvis Pet Relocation, we specialize in helping pet parents navigate the complexities of pet travel, including airline policies, documentation, and in-flight pet care. In this guide, we will explore some of the best pet friendly airlines and their pet travel policies to help you make an informed decision about pet moving services.

What to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Airline

Not all airlines accommodate pets the same way. Some offer exceptional services for pet relocation, while others have strict limitations. When selecting an airline, consider the following factors:

Cabin vs. Cargo Travel: Does the airline allow small pets in the cabin, or are all pets required to travel in cargo?
Breed Restrictions: Many airlines have restrictions on snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs and Persian cats.
Temperature-Controlled Cargo: For pets traveling in cargo, check whether the airline provides climate-controlled and pressurized conditions.
Pet Fees: Costs vary by airline, depending on the pet’s size, travel route, and cabin vs. cargo transport.
Layovers & Handling: Airlines with pet-friendly layover policies ensure proper handling and minimize stress for traveling pets.

Top Pet Friendly Airlines for International Travel

1. Lufthansa

Lufthansa is one of the most pet friendly airlines, offering both in-cabin and cargo transport for pets. Their Animal Lounge in Frankfurt is a world-class facility where pets receive professional care during layovers. For those considering pet relocation to Germany, Lufthansa provides reliable and well-managed pet transport options.

In-Cabin: Small pets (weighing up to 8kg with their carrier) can travel in the cabin.
Cargo: Larger pets travel in the climate-controlled Lufthansa Cargo hold.
Specialty: Excellent handling for long-haul flights and layovers.

2. JetBlue Airlines

JetBlue offers one of the most comprehensive pet travel policies, allowing pets in-cabin, as checked baggage, and in cargo. Their pet transportation services to the USA include detailed guidelines for stress-free travel.

JetPaws™ Program: JetBlue’s exclusive program provides pet parents with a special carrier tag, a travel checklist, and bonus TrueBlue points for flying with pets.
Comfortable Cabin Travel: Small pets can travel in-cabin, provided they fit within the airline’s carrier dimensions and weight restrictions.
Dedicated Customer Support: JetBlue offers specialized pet travel assistance to help with reservations, documentation, and travel planning.

3. Emirates Airlines

While Emirates does not allow pets in the passenger cabin (except for service animals), they provide pet relocation services to UAE in cargo. Their dedicated pet travel program ensures safe handling, temperature control, and well-planned layovers.

Cargo: Pets travel in climate-controlled holds, and Emirates follows strict IATA Live Animal Regulations.
VIP Treatment: Emirates has a dedicated pet handling team to ensure pet safety and comfort.

4. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is another excellent choice for international pet travel, with Qatar Airways Cargo Live Animal Centre providing top-tier pet handling facilities. Their extensive network makes them a great choice for pet relocation to the Middle East and beyond.

In-Cabin: Only service animals are allowed in the cabin.
Cargo: Pet transport follows IATA guidelines, ensuring optimal safety.
Transit Care: Pets are well cared for during layovers in Doha.

5. Air France

Air France offers one of the best in-cabin pet policies for smaller pets traveling internationally.

In-Cabin: Small pets up to 8kg (including carrier) are allowed.
Cargo: Larger pets travel via Air France Cargo.
Specialty: Great options for pet owners flying to and from Europe.

6. AIR CANADA

If you’re planning pet relocation to Canada, Air Canada is one of the top airlines for pet travel. They offer in-cabin and cargo options, with temperature-controlled areas for pets traveling internationally.

Pet Travel Program: Air Canada offers a structured pet travel program with clear guidelines for in-cabin and cargo transport.
Temperature-Controlled Cargo Areas: Pets traveling in the cargo hold benefit from a climate-controlled environment to ensure their safety and comfort.
Dedicated Pet Check-In Process: Air Canada pet policy provides a streamlined pet check-in process, ensuring minimal wait times and a stress-free experience for pet owners.

7. United Airlines (PetSafe Program)

United Airlines provides an excellent PetSafe Program for pets traveling in cargo, ensuring safe handling at every stage.

In-Cabin: Small pets (under 8kg) are allowed.
Cargo: The PetSafe Program ensures a secure and stress-free travel experience.
Restrictions: Brachycephalic breeds have some limitations due to health concerns.

Tips for Flying with Pets Internationally

To ensure your pet’s journey is smooth and hassle-free, follow these key tips:

Book in Advance: Pet slots fill up quickly, so confirm your pet’s flight early.
Choose an IATA-specified Crate: Airlines require properly ventilated, escape-proof travel crates.
Prepare Documentation: Ensure all vaccination records, health certificates, and microchip details are up to date.
Familiarize Your Pet with the Crate: Crate training before travel helps reduce stress.
Check Airline Policies: Policies vary, so confirm details directly with the airline.
Stay Updated on Country-Specific Import Rules: Every country has unique pet import regulations.

Why Choose Anvis Pet Relocation for Your Pet’s Travel?

At Anvis Pet Relocation, we specialize in international pet transportation services, ensuring your furry companion travels safely and comfortably. Our services include:

Custom Travel Planning: Tailored pet relocation solutions based on airline policies and country regulations.
Documentation Assistance: Handling import/export permits, health certificates, and customs clearance.
Pet-Friendly Flight Booking: Choosing the safest airline route for your pet.
Crate Training & Preparation: Helping pets adapt to travel conditions for a stress-free experience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right airline for your pet’s travel is crucial for a safe and comfortable journey. Airlines like Lufthansa, JetBlue, Qatar Airways, and United offer excellent pet relocation options with dedicated pet handling services. However, navigating pet travel regulations, airline restrictions, and paperwork can be overwhelming.

Let Anvis Pet Relocation take care of every detail for you! Contact us today to ensure a stress-free international pet relocation experience.