Airlines That Will Allow Dogs and Cats in The Cabin
advertisement
✅ What “in-cabin pet travel” typically means
When a pet flies in the cabin, it means they stay with you in the passenger section—usually under the seat in a carrier. Here are common policy features:
Only small dogs and cats are usually allowed; sometimes small birds (or other small pets) in select airlines. SNIFFSPOT+1
There’s a weight and size limit: often the combined weight of pet + carrier must stay under ~8 kg / 17-20 lbs. Travelnuity+1
A soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat is often required. affluencetravels.com
You usually need to reserve a spot for the pet ahead of time because airlines limit how many pets they’ll take in cabin on each flight. American Foreign Service Association+1
Additional fees apply. Some airlines charge a flat “pet in cabin” fee. Flycoair
✈️ Some pet-friendly airlines (in cabin)
Here are a few airlines known to accept pets in the cabin, along with a sample of their rules:
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Allows small cats and dogs in-cabin on many international flights. Combined weight (pet + carrier) must be ≤8 kg and carrier size about 46 × 28 × 24 cm. affluencetravels.com
Air France: Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin if under ~8 kg (including carrier) with appropriate carrier dimensions. SNIFFSPOT+1
Lufthansa: Dogs and cats allowed in cabin (within weight/size limits) on many routes. SNIFFSPOT
Finnair (Europe): Cats and small dogs in cabin; example limits ~8 kg max. Travelnuity
Frontier Airlines (US): Pets allowed in cabin only (not cargo), includes small dogs and cats. Newsweek
American Airlines (US): Allows small pets in cabin if they meet breed/size requirements. Recent update lets the pet carrier count separate from personal carry-on bag. New York Post
⚠️ Important caveats & things to check
Breed restrictions: Some airlines prohibit certain breeds (particularly snub-nosed breeds) because of safety/temperature issues. images.akc.org+1
Route restrictions: Some flights or destinations don’t allow in-cabin pets—even if the airline normally does. Example: pets may be banned on flights to/from certain countries or regions. Reddit
Carrier requirements: Many airlines require a soft-sided carrier, with exact max dimensions. Rigid crates are often not allowed in the cabin. Reddit
Weight limit enforcement: The “pet + carrier” weight cap is strictly enforced in many cases. SNIFFSPOT
Advance notice/reservation: Because space is limited, you must notify the airline in advance to reserve your pet’s cabin spot.
Health and paperwork: Your pet may need to be vaccinated, have a health certificate, or meet micro-chip requirements depending on route/destination. petvoyage.ai
📌 Tips for traveling with your pet in cabin
Book early: Pet cabin spots fill up fast.
Measure the carrier: Make sure it meets the airline’s size requirements.
Check weight: Always include the carrier when calculating your pet’s total weight.
Confirm breed eligibility: Especially if you have brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs.
Arrive early: You may need extra check-in procedures.
Keep documentation handy: Health certificate, vaccinations, etc.
Comfort your pet: Familiar blanket/toy in carrier helps with stress.
Monitor route restrictions: Ensure your destination allows in-cabin pets.
Stay updated: Policies can change, so always verify with the airline before booking.
In short: Yes, many airlines allow dogs and cats in the cabin—but not all routes and aircraft types permit it, and restrictions vary widely. By doing your homework ahead of time—booking early, checking size/weight limits, confirming carrier specs, and understanding any route restrictions—you’ll give your pet the best chance of riding comfortably by your side rather than in the cargo hold. Safe travels with your furry companion! 🐶✈️🐱
advertisement
Watch Video Below