Can I take my pet with me on the plane?
It’s a question often asked by travelers. It’s difficult for pet owners to go on a trip without their pets. They have to arrange for their pets to be looked after, and this is not always an easy solution. But you’re perfectly entitled to take your pet with you on the plane. But how do you go about it? What are the rules? What do airlines have to say? We explain.
Safety precautions
Before planning your trip with your pet, you need to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the airline that will be handling your flight. When you book your flight, you’ll need to indicate that your pet will be travelling with you. Your dog or cat must have up-to-date vaccinations. Don’t forget to bring your pet’s health record with you.
Flying with your pet in the cabin
Most airlines accept pets in the cabin. However, they must meet certain criteria. Weight limits vary from airline to airline, but on Air France, for example, the limit is 8 kg (pet + bag or crate). The animal must be carried in a closed, ventilated bag that fits under the seat. The bag is considered as additional baggage. Only one pet per passenger is allowed in the cabin.
An exception is made for assistance dogs, which are automatically accepted on board regardless of weight on routes to or from European Union countries.
You can take your pet with you in the hold or in the cabin – Wikimedia – Chachacha369
Flying with your pet in the hold
Animals that do not fall into the above categories must travel in the hold. The mode of transport remains the same. There is a maximum weight for transport in the hold, which varies from airline to airline. The animal must be at least 10 weeks old.
Flight ban for certain animals
Some dogs may not be allowed to fly. These are primarily dogs that pose a danger to passengers.
Wild or endangered animals are, of course, prohibited on aircraft. To check the list of animals accepted on flights, please consult the airline websites or the website of the French Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forestry(agriculture.gouv.fr).
Finally, if your trip takes you abroad, don’t hesitate to find out about the rules in force directly from the consulate of the country in question.
Are you planning to travel with your pet?
Main photo: Pixabay – Kincse_j