Explained: How To Travel With Pets On A Flight In India

Many pet owners wish to include their furry companions in their travel plans, but flying with pets can present a unique set of challenges. From navigating the complexities of logistics to addressing and paperwork needs, planning is essential for a successful journey. Here’s a guide on how to travel with your pet on flights in India.

Can I bring my pet on a plane?

First off, as a pet parent, it's important to know that in India, the primary airlines allowing pets on flights are Air India and Akasa Air (read more here). Other airlines, such as Vistara, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and AirAsia, generally do not allow pets on board, with exceptions made only for service animals. For example, IndiGo specifies that they do not allow pets on their flights, except for guide dogs for visually impaired passengers. If you are travelling with a guide dog, you must contact IndiGo's call center and follow their guidelines.

Pets Onboard

According to the Air India website, you can bring your pet to the check-in counter with the required travel case and paperwork in order to purchase a ticket. To book a flight for your pet, please contact their Customer Support. It is important to make the booking at least 72 hours before departure if you want your pet to travel in the cabin. Please note that multi-city bookings are not allowed when traveling with a pet.

How Much Does It Cost To Fly A Pet On A Plane?

Regarding charges for travelling with pets, standard excess baggage charges will apply based on weight or piece, regardless of whether you utilise the free baggage allowance. The weight of your pet, along with that of the container (such as a kennel, cage, or bag), will not be included in the free baggage allowance. The applicable charges will depend on the following factors:

• The weight of your pet

• The weight of the container (kennel, cage, or bag)

• Other belongings for the pet, such as food.

Rules For Pets On Flights

When travelling with pets in India, make sure to check the specific airline policies as they can vary. Different airlines have different pet policies. Contact the airline you are flying with to confirm their rules regarding pet travel. Note that service dogs are generally exempt from most restrictions and can travel with their handler.

Air India, for instance, mandates that dogs in-flight must be muzzled and on a leash. To fly in cabin, the pet must be at least eight weeks old; for pets travelling in checked in baggage in the cargo, the age requirements are three months or older.

Akasa Air, on the other hand, does not allow pets above 10 kgs in the cabin. Pets over 100 kgs are not permitted on the aircraft.

You may also need permits from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS) for larger animals or specific breeds. Start this process early to avoid last-minute issues at the airport, ensuring a smoother experience for you and your pet.

Check Size, Age, And Carrier Requirements

Air India specifies that your pet must be at least eight weeks old to travel in the cabin and 3 months or older to travel in the cargo hold as checked baggage. Some airlines allow small pets to travel in the cabin, while larger or heavier pets may need to travel in the cargo hold. The pet carrier or kennel must meet the airline’s size restrictions and be suitable for the size and weight of your pet. For cargo hold travel, the carrier must comply with IATA standards for live animals. The combined weight of your pet and its carrier must remain within the airline's weight limit.

Remember, most airlines require that your pet dog must be muzzled and on a leash in flight. It should be well-ventilated to ensure your pet's comfort and safety during the flight.

Documents Required

To fly with your pet, the required documents include a health certificate from a registered veterinarian, confirming that your pet is fit for travel and free from contagious diseases.

Additionally, you will need up-to-date vaccination records, including rabies vaccination. If traveling internationally, your pet may require a pet passport, which includes vaccination records and other essential documentation. For flights into India, you will also need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or Pre-import Clearance from the AQCS.

Make sure to book your pet’s travel in advance, as there may be limited space for pets on board. Allow extra time for check-in, as you will need to provide the necessary documentation and have the pet carrier assessed.

Preparing Your Pet For The Trip

To prepare a pet for flying, begin with a visit to the vet for a health check and any necessary vaccinations. Before you fly, it’s important to help your pet get used to its carrier and become familiar with the airport environment. Start crate training at least two to three months before your journey. Before you fly with your dog, make sure they get plenty of exercise. A long walk or a play session can help burn off excess energy.

During the flight, maintain a calm and quiet atmosphere for your pet, ensure they stay hydrated, and avoid sedation unless it is medically necessary. Avoid sedation. Sedation can have negative consequences during the flight, and is generally not recommended.

Confinement Training

Confinement training, especially crate training, is crucial for pets flying, ensuring their safety and comfort during travel, particularly in the cargo hold. Airlines mandate that pets be in crates during flights, boarding, and airport transfers to ensure safety and control. Crate training helps pets remain calm and comfortable in the crate, minimising the risk of injury or escape during travel. Familiarity with the crate can reduce pets' anxiety and fear, especially during long flights or unfamiliar airport environments.