Air travel with pets is no longer unusual, but every airline has its own rules, weight limits, and fees. If you plan to fly with a dog or cat, choosing the right airline is often more important than the ticket price. In this guide, we review the latest 2026 pet travel policies from major airlines around the world.
Quick Answer: Which Airlines Accept Pets?
Most North American airlines — such as Delta, United, American, and Alaska — allow small pets in the cabin. Some European airlines, including Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, and Turkish Airlines, also permit small pets onboard.
However, many Middle Eastern airlines — including Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, and Air Arabia — do not allow pets in the cabin and only transport them in the cargo section.
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Comparison Table of Major Pet-Friendly Airlines (2026)
| Airline | Cabin Pets Allowed | Max Weight (Pet + Carrier) | Approx. One-Way Fee | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Airlines | Yes | 8 kg | $125 | General cargo service removed |
| United Airlines | Yes | 8 kg | $125 | Selected routes only |
| American Airlines | Yes | 9 kg | $125 | Pet Embark program |
| Alaska Airlines | Yes | 9 kg | $100 | One of the most flexible policies |
| JetBlue | Yes | 9 kg | $125 | No international pet flights |
| Hawaiian Airlines | Yes | 9 kg | $35–$100 | Reduced fees from January 2026 |
| Turkish Airlines | Yes | 8 kg | Varies by route | Economy class only |
| Lufthansa | Yes | 8 kg | €70–€200 | Birds also accepted |
| Air France / KLM | Yes | 8 kg | €75–€200 | Small cats and dogs accepted |
| British Airways | No | – | – | Only via IAG Cargo |
| Emirates | No | – | Cargo only | Seasonal summer restrictions |
| Etihad Airways | No | – | Cargo only | Service dogs excepted |
| Qatar Airways | No | – | Cargo only | Service dogs and falcons excepted |
| Air Arabia | No | – | – | Does not accept pets |
| Virgin Australia | Yes (trial program) | 8 kg | AUD 149 | First Australian airline to allow cabin pets |
American Airlines: The Most Flexible Options
North American airlines are popular because of their clear pet policies and standard pricing. In most cases, the combined weight of the pet and carrier must stay under 8–9 kg, and the carrier must fit under the seat.
Key Highlights
- Delta and United only allow pets in the cabin after removing general cargo pet services.
- Alaska Airlines allows two small pets in one carrier.
- Hawaiian Airlines reduced some pet travel fees from $125 to $100 starting January 2026.
European Airlines: Strict but Reliable
Europe has stricter health regulations for pet travel. In addition to airline requirements, travelers must follow EU pet import rules.
- Turkish Airlines: Accepts cats, dogs, and small birds up to 8 kg, with a carrier size limit of 40×30×23 cm.
- Lufthansa: Flexible with breeds and reasonably priced for European routes.
- Air France & KLM: Allow small pets in the cabin and larger pets in cargo.
- British Airways: No cabin pets allowed; transport only through IAG Cargo.
Middle Eastern Airlines: Cargo Only
If you are flying from Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi, expect stricter pet policies.
- Emirates, Etihad, and Air Arabia do not allow pets in the cabin except for service dogs.
- Qatar Airways only allows service dogs and falcons on selected regional routes. Other pets must travel in IATA-approved cargo crates.
Because of the extreme Gulf summer heat, airlines in the region often apply seasonal pet transport embargoes between May and September. Night flights are usually recommended.
New Trends in Pet Air Travel
Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia became the first Australian airline to allow pets in the cabin starting in 2025. Pets under 8 kg are accepted for AUD 149.
RetrievAir
RetrievAir is a U.S.-based charter platform that allows large dogs in the cabin without weight limits, targeting premium travelers.
Common Requirements for Flying With Pets
Before booking your ticket, most airlines require:
- A leak-proof, ventilated airline-approved carrier.
- Updated vaccination records, especially rabies vaccination.
- A veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days before departure.
- Minimum pet age requirements, usually between 8 and 12 weeks.
- Early booking, since airlines limit the number of pets per flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a dog or cat in the cabin on Emirates?
No. Emirates does not allow pets in the cabin except for service dogs. Other animals must travel through Emirates SkyCargo.
What is the maximum cabin weight for pets?
Most airlines allow a combined pet and carrier weight of 8–9 kg.
Do I need a veterinary certificate?
Yes. Most airlines require a health certificate and valid vaccination records.
How much does pet air travel cost?
Cabin pet fees usually range from $95 to $200, while cargo transport may cost between $200 and $1,000 depending on the route and airline.
Does Qatar Airways allow pets in the cabin?
No. Only service dogs and falcons are accepted on selected routes.
Are pets allowed on connecting flights?
Sometimes only the first flight segment allows cabin travel. Direct flights are usually the safest option for pets.
What is the best airline for flying with pets from Iran?
Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa are generally considered the best options because they allow small pets in the cabin on many international routes.
