dog travel jetstar

Flying with a Dog in Australia: The Ultimate Guide

When planning to travel between different parts of Australia , whether for a holiday or some other reason, you’ll probably consider flying . After all, Australia is a big country, and it takes days to drive from one side of the country to the other.

But if you’re travelling with a dog, is it possible for them to also fly? What’s involved when travelling with a dog and on what flights are they allowed? After flying multiple times in Australia with my dog, I share the steps you need to follow and lots of tips to make everything go smoothly.

BREAKING NEW: On 7th March 2024, Virgin Australia announced that it plans to allow small pets and dogs to fly in the cabin on domestic flights in Australia. The service is expected to launch within the next 12 months, although subject to regulatory approval. I’ll add further details once more details come to light.

At this stage, it may only apply to specific domestic flights. Pets will naturally need to be small enough to remain in an approved carrier for the whole flight (underneath the seat in front) and at the terminal, so a weight limit of 8kg including the carrier will likely apply. Pets will also only be allocated to certain rows, with a likely limit to the number of pets in the cabin, like happens overseas.

More details: https://newsroom.virginaustralia.com/release/cats-out-bag-virgin-australia-signals-intent-launch-nations-first-ever-pets-cabin-flights

Are Dogs Allowed to Fly in the Cabin in Australia?

Late in 2021, a major regulation changed for flying with pets in Australia. Previously, dogs were not allowed to travel in the cabin on flights within Australia (as well as to and from Australia), unless they were a recognised service dog. This applied no matter how small your dog was.

However, in December 2021, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (or CASA) changed the rules so that pets can now fly in the cabin, but only if individual airlines allow it. Unfortunately, as of June 2023, no airline has yet changed their rules to allow pets to travel in the cabin on regular commercial flights in Australia.

It is also likely that this rule change only applies to domestic flights, not flights to or from Australia, with pets not able to travel in the cabin on flights to Australia .

Pet-Friendly Flights in the Cabin to Tasmania

The one instance I’ve come across where pets are allowed to travel in the cabin are on the pet-friendly flights to Tasmania operated by Pawmobile .

Since early 2021, Pawmobile has offered weekly chartered flights from Melbourne (Essendon Airport) to Devonport, along with occasional flights to Hobart. Pets fly in the cabin of the small plane, in their crates, accompanied by an experienced handler.

Note however that human passengers are not accepted at this time, unless you charter the entire plane. Additionally, this is a premium service with prices higher than those for flying pets in the hold – but in return your pet is treated as a passenger, rather than luggage.

Pawmobile also has plans to launch flights to other destinations in the future. For now, connecting road transport from other Australia cities to or from Melbourne can be arranged.

Pets on Regular Commercial Flights in Australia

On regular commercial flights, for now pet dogs and cats can only fly in the hold of airplanes in Australia, generally as cargo. This means that you need to make a booking with the freight division of the airline (or a pet transport company) and drop them off at the cargo terminal. They’re loaded along with cargo into the hold (but with extra care) and then you pick them up at the cargo terminal.

There is also a third way that dogs can fly, as “checked baggage”. This means that they fly in the hold but you drop them off and pick them up inside the terminal, like oversized items. This is generally not possible in Australia, except with Regional Express (REX) on selected routes.

What Airlines Allow Pets to Fly in Australia?

When flying your dog domestically in Australia, there are three main options: Qantas (including Qantaslink), Virgin Australia and Regional Express (REX).

Jetstar, the discount airline run by Qantas, don’t allow pets to fly on its flights. This is the same as many other discount airlines overseas, like Ryanair and Easyjet. This also extends to Qantas codeshare flights operated by Jetstar.

The latest discount airline to launch in Australia, Bonza , also doesn’t fly pets or other animals, other than approved assistance dogs. Interestingly, they include the word “currently” in their FAQ, so maybe this will change in the future.

There’s also a number of small regional airlines that operate in Australia, often just from one airport. Most of these airlines don’t mention whether they transport pets, or just transport pets through Qantas freight.

Flying Pets with Qantas

Pets are allowed to fly on most Qantas flights within Australia. On Qantas flights, pets fly through Qantas Freight , the cargo division of Qantas.

As of June 2023, it is once again possible to make bookings directly with Qantas Freight for pets flying accompanied (on the same flight as you) or unaccompanied (such as a puppy flying to its new home). (For a few years from 2020 to early 2023, bookings were only permitted through one of their preferred pet travel specialists, due to the many flight disruptions.)

Note that pets may not be permitted on some Qantas flights. In particular, there may be some regional airports that don’t have the necessary facilities, or some flights may arrive or depart outside of freight terminal hours.

One other issue that you may encounter if you are flying a larger dog is that some of the smaller planes cannot accommodate the larger size crates. This is unlikely to be an issue if you are flying between the state capitals, but could be the case if you are flying on a Qantaslink flight in or out of a regional area.

Flying Pets with Virgin Australia

Virgin also flies pets within Australia , through their cargo division. Since 2020 they have required all pet bookings to be done through a commercial pet transport company, and this requirement still hasn’t been removed as of June 2023.

Unlike Qantas, Virgin Australia have a maximum weight limit for flying pets. This is 65kg including your dog’s crate. Additionally, depending on the aircraft operating the flight, larger crates may not be accepted on some flights. See this page for various crates sizes that are or are not permitted on their different aircraft.

There are also some Virgin flights that can’t accept pets on board. In particular, they have a couple of A320s they seem to mainly fly within Western Australia, that don’t have the temperature control necessary for flying pets. They also only fly pets to and from the airports listed here .

Flying Pets with Regional Express (REX)

Regional Express, or REX for short, is a smaller airline that mainly operates flights from capitals and major cities to regional airports. They also fly pets within Australia.

As REX does not have a freight division, they either accept pets as “checked baggage” on some flights, or require other flights to be booked either through Qantas Freight or through a pet transport company.

At the moment, the only pet bookings that can be made directly with REX for carriage as “checked baggage” are regional flights within NSW and Victoria operated by Saab 340 turbo-prop aircraft. For these flights, pets are dropped off at the check-in in their crate and they fly as excess baggage, similar to flying a golf bag.

However, like for all excess baggage, there is a weight and size limit, otherwise your pet must fly as freight. The maximum weight of both your pet and crate is restricted to 30kg. The maximum crate size is restricted to 85cm high x 77cm wide x 131cm long. (And crates often need to be larger than you expect, to meet the IATA guidelines .)

For regional flights in South Australia and Western Australia, you will need to book and lodge your pet with Qantas Freight. This is because both Adelaide and Perth Airports don’t allow animals other than assistance dogs in the terminal.

For regional flights in Queensland, dogs are similarly not allowed in the terminals of Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Cost and Townsville Airports. For pets flying on these flights, you need to book and lodge your pet with Dogtainers , a pet transport company.

Finally, if you want to fly with your pet on the newer Boeing 737-800 jet operated flights between capital cities, you need to contact either Jetpets , Dogtainers or Moorholme Pet Transport.

Are All Dog Breeds Allowed to Fly?

The majority of dog breeds are permitted to fly in Australia, with some conditions.

Flying Dangerous and Strong Dog Breeds

There are a short list of dangerous dog breeds, that are prohibited from being imported into Australia, and are also not allowed to fly at all in Australia (if they are already in the country):

• Fila Brasilerio
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• American Pit Bull and other Pit Bull Breeds
• Perro de Presa Canario

Other strong dog breeds are permitted to travel as long as they travel in a special non-plastic crates, such as the CR-82 crate or an airline approved guard dog cage. Qantas singles out American Staffordshire Terriers as requiring these crates.

Flying Snub-Nosed or Brachycephalic Breeds

The second main category with special caveats for flying are snub-nosed or brachycephalic breeds, as these breeds are more likely to experience breathing difficulties and heat stress.

Some overseas airlines forbid these breeds from flying in the hold, but both Virgin Australia and Qantas permit them to fly, subject to extra conditions. (REX does not permit brachycephalic breeds to fly either as excess baggage or freight.)

With both Qantas and Virgin Australia, short-nosed breeds can only be booked through an approved pet transport company. The transport companies are aware of the additional regulations that may apply, including being restricted to early morning or evening flights, plus larger crate requirements.

Both Qantas and Virgin have their own list of the affected breeds, with Virgin also including cross-breeds, while Qantas does not. Check the airline specific list.

Previously, when direct bookings were permitted for snub-nosed dogs, it was recommended that you check with your vet about the suitability of your dog travelling by air, plus use a crate one size larger than is standard – Qantas stated a crate twice the usual minimum size. Virgin recommended that snub-nosed dogs over the age of 5 years did not fly, while Qantas recommended snub-nosed dogs didn’t fly above 20C.

Flying Large Dogs

If your dog weighs more than 65kg, including their crate, they may have additional restrictions. At the moment, pets over 65kg cannot be booked with Virgin, plus previously they couldn’t be booked online with Qantas.

With online bookings once again in place with Qantas, the maximum size crate you can book online is 129cm x 62cm x 82cm, although they advise to call up if your pet and their crate weighs more than 50kg. With Rex, the maximum for pets to fly as excess baggage is 30kg.

Flying Puppies and Senior Dogs

Qantas will not fly puppies under the age of 12 weeks (due to the risk of dehydration). While for Virgin Australia, the cut-off is 8 weeks, with puppies between 8 and 12 weeks requiring a vet health certificate. A vet health certificate is also usually required for pets over 12 years old.

Booking Your Pet to Fly in Australia

If you’re flying together with your pet, it’s best to book their flight before making your own flights. There are two main reasons for this: the number of pets that can be accommodated on most flights are limited (sometimes only one or two on smaller planes), plus as detailed above there are some occasions where pets are not permitted at all (such as specific planes, airports and hours of the day).

Cancellation and change conditions are also usually quite generous for pet bookings, compared to many human bookings. (For instance, when I flew with Qantas in 2019, pet tickets could be refunded up to 14 days before travel). Additionally, there is usually no variation in the cost of flying pets, even if you are booking last minute.

Note that before you book your pet, you will need to know the size of the crate and the combined weight, as this is used to determine if your pet will fit on the flight plus their ticket cost.

Booking Pets to Fly with Qantas

In the past, I’ve found Qantas the easiest airline to book for my dog, thanks to their online booking portal where you can book pets to fly, as long as your pet plus their crate is no larger than 129cm x 62cm x 82cm (and doesn’t weight more than 50kg combined), and you don’t have a snub-nosed pet. And as of June 2023, you can once again easily book pets online.

When flying with Qantas in the past, after booking our dog’s flight online, we then booked our own tickets online on the regular booking site.

At the moment, you can only make bookings on the Qantas online booking portal up to around three months out. If you are attempting to make a booking for a date that isn’t yet available, call the call centre (13 13 13) to discuss.

Booking Pets to Fly with Virgin Australia

With Virgin Australia, to make a booking for a pet prior to 2020 you instead needed to call their call centre (13 67 89). At least though we could book both our own tickets and our pet’s flight together on the same call, without the usual charge for booking through a call centre.

However, as of June 2023, Virgin Australia is also only accepting bookings through a commercial pet transport company. No direct bookings are currently accepted.

Booking Pets to Fly with REX

If flying with REX   and your pet is flying as excess baggage, there seems to be no requirement to book in advance. In particular, the fee calculated for your pet cannot be paid in advance, as it is calculated at check-in.

I would ring and double check in advance that your pet is allowed on your particular flight. Also, if they are flying as excess baggage, there is the chance that if there is no capacity, they will be bumped from the flight.

There is no mention on REX’s website of not allowing direct bookings for pets flying as excess baggage. There is only the list of flights where a booking must be made through a pet transport company or Qantas Freight (or a pet transport company for now).

Cost of Flying Your Pet in Australia

Just as the cost of your own ticket varies depending on how much baggage your choose to purchase, the cost of flying a pet in Australia varies depending on the size or weight of your pet, or more accurately, the size of their crate or the combined weight of your pet and their crate. Additionally, if your pet is flying unaccompanied (you are not on the same flight), the rate is typically higher.

In recent years, the cost to fly with pets within Australia have substantially increased. This is particularly the case if you need to make a booking through a pet transport company, who typically charge a premium (though may include extra services such as pick-up and delivery). Although, hopefully the prices charged by pet transport companies have decreased since the highs during the border closures and flight disruptions of 2020 and 2021.

Cost to Fly Pets with Qantas

With Qantas, the cost to fly a pet is based on their crate size. The cheapest fares are for pets in a XS crate no larger than 48 x 33 x 38 cm. The most expensive fares are for pet in an XL crate up to 129 x 62 x 82 cm. (Note that the labelling of crates has charged since pre-pandemic.)

When we flew our dog with us from Adelaide to Sydney in late 2019, his crate fit in the current S category, the second smallest size. His ticket was $137.50, compared to about $140 each for our tickets.

However, the prices are now substantially more expensive. On the online portal in June 2023, I was quoted a price of $292.93 to fly a pet in this size crate from Adelaide to Sydney (with the same price for different dates) – over double the price previously!

Cost to Fly Pets with Virgin Australia

With Virgin Australia, when you could book directly, the ticket price was based on the combined weight of your pet and their crate. The smallest weight category was 1 to 10kg, followed by 11 to 20kg, etc.

When we flew our dog with us from Sydney to Melbourne in late 2019, the total weight was around 10kg. Our dog’s ticket was $95, compared to our tickets which were $117 each.

However, at the moment you cannot book pets to fly directly with Virgin Australia, only through a pet transport company, with higher prices charged. And once you can again book directly, the prices will likely increase, as for Qantas.

Cost to Fly Pets with REX

With REX, if your pet is flying as excess baggage, the price of flying your pet is based on the combined weight of your pet and their crate.

The fee is the same as the regular excess baggage charge, currently $5.50 per kilo according to their FAQ , with no charge to this rate in recent years. So, if you are flying a 5kg pet in a 5kg crate, the charge will be $55.00.

Rates for pets flying as cargo with REX likely differ.

Buying a Flight Crate For Your Dog

The biggest step to prepare your pet for their flight is choosing a crate. As I mentioned above, you need to find out the size crate your pet will fly in, plus often its weight, before booking your pet on their flight.

Crate Requirements

There are international guidelines on what size crate your animal should fly in. To determine the ideal size, check out this handy guide on the Qantas website.

Also check out the guidelines listed on the Virgin page for extra requirements, such that two-part plastic containers must have the top and bottom secured by screws or nuts and bolts, rather than plastic clips.

However, I also feel it is best to test out the size of a crate in person, before making the final decision. The guidelines stipulate that there needs to be enough room for your dog to stand, sit and turn around in the crate.

Buying or Hiring a Crate

For this reason, it’s best to visit a large pet store with crates out on display, along with your dog. Qantas also have crates for purchase from selected domestic terminals, that they recommend picking up a few days in advance.

The other alternative to purchasing a crate, especially if you’re just flying a single time with your dog, is to hire a crate. This is possible through some of the pet transport companies that operate in Australia (but only for domestic, not international, flights). It is also possible to purchase a pet crate from these companies.

Familiarising Your Dog with Their Crate

As soon as you get a crate for your dog, familiarise them with the crate. Ideally, they will have been crate trained while a puppy, even if they are now flying in a different crate. Our dog Schnitzel was readily comfortable in his flight crate for this reason.

Encourage them to spend time in their crate, including sleeping. One of the best training methods is to put their bowl at mealtimes in their crate.

Preparing Your Dog For Their Flight

The biggest step to prepare your pet for their flight is to familiarise them with their crate, as mentioned above. This helps them to be comfortable in it, without stressing, while waiting for and on their flight.

Other steps that you should complete on the day of your pets flight include:

• Take them for a walk , to help tire them out and increase the likelihood that they sleep on the flight
• Only feed them a small meal or snack in the lead-up to their flight, ideally well before the flight.
• Plus toilet them, as close to their flight at possible. I usually do this when dropping off my dog at the freight terminal – most have some nearby grass or gardens.
• Put a water dish in their crate, that can be filled from outside – this is a requirement of air travel. Purchase this at the time you purchase their crate. Fill this up only when dropping off your pet, to minimise spillage. Or consider filling it with ice cubes, that will gradually melt during the flight.
• Put something absorbent in their crate, such as a puppy pee-pad. I usually tape this to the bottom of the crate.
• There are varying recommendations on whether to put anything else in your dog’s crate, but I usually like to add my dog’s favourite blanket, at the back of the crate away from the water dish.
• On the top of your pet’s crate, attach a sheet of paper with key details : your pet’s name, your own name and contact phone number, the Airway bill number.
• Don’t leave your pet’s collar, harness or leash attached when they are in the crate, as there is a risk these could be snagged and cause an injury (or worse) to your pet, while they are unattended in the plane’s hold. (Virgin Australia actually recommends pets wear their collar, while their leash is attached to the outside by zip-ties.)

Note that while many people consider sedating their pets, this is not recommended, unless your vet has specifically recommended it and has supplied a vet certificate (check with the airline first). The reason for this is that pets are more likely to experience breathing difficulties or other issues when they have been sedated, and actually are at greater risk.

Dropping Off Your Pet Before Their Flight

If you are making a booking through a pet transport company, as it still required by Virgin Australia, you will likely drop off your pet at the transport company’s office. They can advise you on where to go, the timings required and what they require you to bring along.

Otherwise, pets flying in cargo with a direct booing, generally need to be dropped off between 120 minutes and 90 minutes before your flight is scheduled to depart, although this can vary at some airports and for early morning flights.

You drop off your pet yourself at the relevant cargo office, which can be a fair distant from the passenger terminal (1km or more away), with their location varying between airport and airline.

When we dropped off our pet to fly with Virgin when booking directly, we were required to already be checked-in online (and present our boarding pass), plus present the Airway bill number and the completed and printed AVI acceptance checklist (as provided with the booking confirmation).

Qantas has a similar list of requirements. You need to have a copy of your pet’s booking confirmation, photo ID, the completed shipper’s statement and acknowledgement form, and your flight details (e-ticket or boarding pass), if you are flying on the same flight.

When we flew with Qantas, it was okay to have the shipper’s statement on our phone, although we ended up completing the paperwork on a tablet at the terminal instead.

At the freight terminal, they will generally check over your paperwork, get you to sign any extra forms and weigh your pet in their container. Cable ties and stickers will generally be attached to your pet’s crate.

If your pet is flying with excess baggage with REX, the process is simpler. Instead you simply head to the regular check-in counter. However, REX does recommend that you arrive earlier than usual.

Picking Up Your Pet After Their Flight

After your flight, for pets flying as freight and when you have made a direct booking, you pick up your pet at the freight terminal yourself. If you have booked your pet to fly through a pet transport company, check whether you will pick up your pet from their office afterwards or whether you can pick up your pet at the freight terminal yourself.

If flying your pet as excess baggage with REX, you will generally claim your pet from the oversized luggage area, although check with the airport staff if uncertain.

Picking Up Your Pet from a Freight Terminal

Generally, most freight terminals are at a distance from the passenger terminal, although this differs between airports and airlines. For instance, the Qantas freight building at Sydney Airport is only a few hundred metres from where you exit the Qantas domestic terminal, closer than the free pick-up area.

In contrast, at Melbourne Airport when picking up my dog after flying with Virgin I had to proceed to the Menzies Aviation building, about 1km away. I was even required to put on a high-vis vest to enter.

Expect it to take at least 30-40 minutes after the flight arrives before your pet is ready for pick up. Virgin state that it can take up to 30 minutes for your pet to be ready for pick-up. Qantas advise that it generally takes 45 minutes, or 10-20 minutes for regional airports.

Note that you don’t want to leave it too late after the flight’s arrival to pick up your pet. Virgin previously stated that they will only hold your pet for 90 minutes after your flight’s arrival, after which they will contact a local pet care company (at your own expense), to minimise the period your pet spends in their crate.

If you are worried about running late, have the phone number of the freight terminal where you are picking up your pet handy.

What About Using a Pet Transport Company?

Currently, it is a requirement of pets flying with Virgin Australia, snub-nosed pets flying on Qantas, and on many REX flights that they are booked through a pet transport company. But even once this temporary policy is reversed, you may still want to consider using a pet transport company to fly your pet within Australia.

There are a number of reasons why you may want to consider this, including if you are unable to pick up or drop off your pet yourself before or after their flight, or if you’d prefer someone experienced in pet transport to handle the arrangements. A pet transport company may also be able to rent you a crate.

When my dog had to fly from Melbourne to Sydney following his stay in quarantine after flying back into Australia, I booked his transport and flight through Jetpets.

They were able to pick him up from the quarantine facility, drive him to the airport, put him onto the flight, then afterwards we picked him up from the Jetpets office in Sydney. In late 2018, this cost $230, compared to $115 for when he later flew accompanied with a direct booking to Melbourne. (However, note that prices have substantially increased since then.)

Find out more about whether you should use a pet transport company

My Thoughts on Qantas vs Virgin

I personally didn’t find there was much difference between flying my pet with Qantas or Virgin Australia within Australia in 2019.

In both cases the procedures and steps were similar, although with slight differences. The prices were also fairly similar. The biggest difference between the two was that you could book your pet’s transport with Qantas online, while you needed to call the Virgin call centre to book your pet.

Both experiences went quite smoothly. The biggest possible issue was that there was a heat wave in Adelaide the November day we flew back from Adelaide to Sydney. I called up the Qantas freight call centre a day or two before our flight, to see if I should move my dog onto an earlier flight, and ended up waiting over 30 minutes on hold. (After the wait, I knew why there was an option to press 1 if your pet was flying that day!)

The staff member I spoke to was reassuring (perhaps a little too reassuring!), and we ended up going ahead with the original flight, partially as I know my dog and that it’s fine with warm weather. (He likes to sunbake himself even on hot, sunny days.)

At least with that flight I knew for certain my dog was on it! When flying from Sydney to Melbourne, due to the frequency of the early morning flights between the two cities, I was a little paranoid he may have ended up on the flight before or after. (I should have asked a flight crew member when boarding.)

But when boarding the Qantas flight, the crew member saw my dog’s photo on my phone (where I had the boarding pass), and let me know he was safely onboard, and joked he had been asking for canapes!

I recommend choosing the airline that you prefer, or that has flights at the best time of the day. During the summer months, plus year round in the tropical parts of Australia, it is best to fly early in the morning or in the evening, to avoid hot weather. If you’re flying with your dog in summer, read my full list of tips .

Unfortunately, I haven’t yet flown with REX, with or without my dog.

You May Also Like

• Travelling in Australia with a Dog
• Can You Fly with a Dog in the Cabin to Australia?
• 7 Top Tips for Flying with Your Dog in Summer
• Which Car Rental Companies in Australia are Pet-Friendly?

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

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17 thoughts on “Flying with a Dog in Australia: The Ultimate Guide”

Is there a list of prices for flying dogs interstate depending on distance and weight please? I notice Uship supply a range of prices is this the only company that does?

I would contact both Qantas and Virgin directly to find out the prices. These prices change from time to time, plus at the moment with bookings required through a pet transport company the costs are higher.

Thanks so much for this. Very reassuring. I’ve booked my gosh 11 month old Cavoodle to fly from Melbourne to Brisbane in the AM. I was very anxious about how he’d go considering we need to be there at 4am!!

Best of luck with the flight!

May I ask how it went? I’m hoping to fly home with my pup in December, but it all sounds daunting…

35 countries ! How do you get your dog back into Australia? ?

I covered that here: https://www.travelnuity.com/bringing-a-dog-to-australia/

Thank you for creating this article. We would love to take our little sausage with us on short trips within AU, and finding out that this is quite challenging.

The easiest holidays to take with your pup in Australia are car-based trips. There’s a surprisingly number of people completing a Big Lap that have brought their dogs along. Although, hopefully once Covid and the current flight hiccups are past, it’ll become easier to fly with dogs – maybe even in the cabin one day!

Thank you Shandos very very clear advice. It has helped remove the guesswork for our Rex flight from sydney to Griffith on a saab340.

Great to hear, all the best for your flight!

Hi I am trying to book a flight from Brisbane to Adelaide with my JRT. I have flown him before, and this trip usually costs around $350-$400.. when I spoke w Qantas Sn Virgon last week.. the quotes were $1065 and $1124 respectively …..what the hell is going on?.. fyi this is ONE WAY

Wow, that’s crazy! I know prices are higher now than pre-Covid, but I hadn’t seen prices that high for a small dog.

I had a question, I run a nonprofit that gets dogs to open heart surgery. Clearly flying in cargo isn’t a question. If these dogs are US certified service animals can they fly in cabin and avoid 10 day hold? It would not be optimal for a heart dog to go in hold. Also some families want to go to Japan from AUS for surgery, will they be subject to hold and quarantine?

For service dogs, if they meet the requirements of Australian airlines, they can fly in the cabin into Australia on those airlines. I recommend checking directly with the airline. A quarantine period still applies, as long with other paperwork requirements, but I believe there is an option for at home quarantine. It’s not clearly set out on line – but see this page for more info: https://www.travelnuity.com/avoid-pet-quarantine-australia/

For flying out of Australia, recognised service dogs are also allowed to fly in the cabin. Japan only has a very short quarantine period of around 12 hours, as long as all requirements and checks are met. See: https://www.travelnuity.com/what-countries-pet-quarantine/

Thank you so much for such an informative post. My dog is a small toy poodle. He is only 4.5 kilos but 15 years old. I am wondering how to get him to the US. Would the option of taking him on a cruise to Fiji and then fly on an American Airline to Hawaii or LA work? I am just thinking out of the box. I doubt I’ll need to think of bringing him back, considering his age.

If you’re wanting to fly him in the cabin out of Australia, your best option is a shared private jet. Skye Pet Travel ( https://skyepettravel.com.au ) is planning some flights to the USA, although they’re not yet approved and are very expensive. I’ve also heard rumours that Korean Air will fly pets out of Australia in the cabin, but I’m not convinced this is possible – but it’s worthwhile enquiring. Cruise ships don’t usually accept pets on board, so taking a cruise to Fiji isn’t an option, only a private yacht. Sorry about the lack of options!

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Jetstar: Pet Policy

• Planes & Seat Maps

Does Jetstar have a service for Pet Carriage?

Jetstar does not accept reservations for the carriage of pets on any of its aircraft.

SeatGuru was created to help travelers choose the best seats and in-flight amenities.

Jetstar Airways flying with pets

What is jetstar policy on pet acceptance.

Unfortunately, Jetstar is unable to accept reservations for pets on any of its aircraft . Because Jetstar does not have pressurized cargo facilities, animals cannot be transported in the aircraft hold. If you would like to arrange transport for your pet, you can contact the following transport services for more information:

• Qantas Freight .

Can I travel with a Service Dog on Jetstar flights?

Service Dogs are accepted for transportation in the cabin, free of charge, on all Jetstar flights, except flights operated by Jetstar Pacific (BL) . Passengers traveling with a Service Dog can book their flights online or by contacting Jetstar Reservations. When booking your flight through Jetstar.com, you should check your itinerary carefully to ensure that your service dog has been recorded. If your Service Dog is not recorded on your itinerary, you must contact Jetstar Reservations immediately.

Appropriate and current service dog ID cards or documentation (such as Service Dog accreditation from the relevant body or approval letter obtained from Jetstar) must be provided when checking in at the airport check-in counter. Accreditations and approvals for Service Dogs may vary depending on the operating carrier .

Flights operated by Jetstar (JQ) and Jetstar Asia (3K)

Jetstar does not have a limit for the number of passengers traveling with an accredited Service Dog on each flight. Accredited Service Dogs includes:

• Guide Dogs accredited by a training organization that can demonstrate membership of the International Guide Dog Federation, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, the Association for the Blind WA, Guide Dogs Qld, Guide Dogs Victoria, Guide Dogs SA/NT, Seeing Eye Dogs Australia and Royal Guide Dogs for the Blind Association of Tasmania.
• Hearing Dogs accredited by a relevant association (e.g. Lions Hearing Dogs Inc.).
• Assistance Dogs accredited by Assistance Dogs Australia, Canine Helpers for the Disabled Inc, Association of Australian Assistance Dogs (NQ) Inc, Smartpups Australia Inc, Righteous Pups Australia Inc, Australian Support Dogs Inc, Service Dog Training Associations accredited by Assistance Dogs International (but not candidate members), specified individual trainers accredited under the Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dog Act 2009.
• Other Service Dogs trained to assist a person with a disability (in this case, an application must be submitted to Jetstar at least 14 days prior to travel).

Flights operated by Jetstar Japan (GK)

Only Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs and Mobility Assistance Dogs are accepted on board, at no additional charge. Jetstar Japan will not accept for carriage Emotional Assistance Animals. Accredited certification and training documentation must be presented at the time of checking-in.

More information here >>

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Can pets travel with you in the cabin on planes? Technically yes, but Australia's major airlines don't allow it

Theoretically, pets could have been able to sit with their owners in the cabins of planes since December. 

But currently, Australia's major airlines don't allow it.

And that's unlikely to change any time soon. 

Here's why. 

Can pets fly in the cabins of planes?

According to the body that regulates aviation safety in Australia — Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) — yes, but there are some conditions. 

In December last year, CASA updated its regulations for the carriage of animals on aircraft, which essentially gave airlines permission to carry animals in cabins if they chose to. 

But that doesn't mean people are able to jump on a plane with their dog under their arm — the rule changes just give airlines the ability to allow that. 

When discussing the changes back in July last year, CASA spokesman Peter Gibson said airlines would still have to make sure it was safe to have pets in the cabin . 

"If they're going to do it, they're going to have to do it safely and they'll have to show us how they're going to be able to do it safely," he said.

But major airlines don't allow it

Back when the changes were being discussed, Qantas and Jetstar indicated they weren't keen on the idea, but Virgin was considering it . 

Six months after the changes came into effect, neither of those three major airlines allow pets in the cabin. 

What are the current rules for travelling with pets?

• Virgin: All pets must travel in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Virgin only allows cats and dogs under 65 kilograms (and that weight limit includes the crate they're travelling in) to travel on their planes
• Qantas:  All pets must travel in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Qantas allows cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, domestic fish with no aeration requirements and domestic birds on their planes
• Jetstar:  Jetstar's website says the airline "is not equipped" to transport pets, directing customers to Qantas Freight instead

However, all three airlines allow service dogs — so that's guide dogs, hearing dogs and assistance dogs — in the cabins of their planes.

Jetstar has ruled out emotional support pets, but Virgin allows them on flights to and from the US — where they're permitted on planes. 

A bunch of restrictions apply to service dogs, including wearing their harnesses, being appropriately certified and being properly restrained. 

It's all up to the airlines 

The CASA rules are quite broad, so it would be up to the airlines to decide their pet travel policies. 

"[The ruling] just talks about animals — so theoretically, it could be a boa constrictor," Mr Gibson said. 

He said it airlines would need to take a "common-sense approach" to animal travel. 

"At a serious level, you've got people who can be highly allergic to animals,  so you've got to take that into account," he said. 

"Some people get bad asthma, so that's a serious issue.

"Other people just get freaked out by snakes."

What could the rules be?

Airlines would need to make sure animals don't block the aisles, don't block the exit rows and can be properly restrained in the case of emergency. 

So some pets might be small enough to sit on a passenger's lap.

But larger pets might need to have their own seat booked. 

Then there's also the issue of animal droppings — service dogs have to have a "moisture absorbent mat" for this, so it's likely they'd be required for all pets. 

Mr Gibson hinted that coming up with policies and procedures for ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers and crew on planes might be too much for airlines. 

"It's up to them to develop those and, of course, make the threshold decision," he said.

"Do they actually want to do it or not — can they be bothered going through all this effort?"

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Interstate Pet Transport Services Across Australia

Here at Jetpets, we take care of all your interstate pet transport needs from any location within Australia. Your pet’s comfort and safety is our number one priority. Whether you’re travelling to or from Melbourne , Sydney , Brisbane , Perth , Adelaide or elsewhere , our friendly and experienced team is here to help you make your interstate pet transport plans completely stress-free.

How Do Our Interstate Pet Transport Services Work?

At Jetpets, it’s not just about getting your loved one from point A to B, we take the time to get to know your pet and hear about their travel requirements. From locking in your preferred travel dates to helping you select the required level of convenience, our team will work with you to develop a tailored itinerary that puts your pet first.

With our very own transit lounges located near major airports across the country, you can rest assured that your pets are given a comfort stop and time to refresh before and or between flights. Working closely with reputable airlines, we pride ourselves on providing you with a seamless end-to-end service that focuses on reuniting families with their beloved pets or welcoming a new pet into the family.

How We Can Help With Your Interstate Pet Transport Needs

Our Interstate Pet Travel Consultants:

• Find out all about your VIPs (very important pets!)
• Provide expert advice on preparing your fur baby for interstate pet travel
• Decide on the best size travel crate
• Arrange a stay-dry fleece mat for your furbaby’s crate to keep them comfy and dry
• Book your pet on the most direct flight with one of our airline partners
• Arrange a comfort stop along the way
• Can arrange a door to door interstate pet transport service
• Prepare your special detailed itinerary

Resident Vets & Transit Lounges For Support Each Step Of The Way

• Our Resident Vets are on staff to ensure your pet is healthy and fit for their journey
• Gain access to the Jetpets Transit Lounge  for your pet to have a stretch and relax out of their crate before their flight
• Recieve pet travel updates to keep you informed for complete peace of mind
• 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year customer service – we are here for you!

What Happens At The Airport?

• The captain of the aircraft is aware that your loved one is on board their flight and will set the temperature to approx. 18 degrees celsius so that they are comfortable
• The pets cabin is dimly lit so that your loved one can see what is going on around them
• What we feel and hear in the cabin of the plane is the same as what your pet will experience (except in a travel crate they have much more leg room than us!)

Hear More From Pet Owners

Frequently asked questions about our interstate pet travel, q: how much does pet transport cost.

Interstate pet transport prices take into consideration several factors including: flight routes, destinations, size, weight of your pet, and service level required just to name a few. Our quotes can be made all-inclusive, ensuring a boutique experience for your pet – no hidden costs or surprises. Our team follows strict internal and external policies to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety during travel. Your pet travel consultant will discuss with you all available options, as well as a customised itinerary and quote for your pet’s travel across Australia.

Q: Is It Safe To Fly My Pets In Cargo?

The pets’ cabin is dimly lit, with the temperature set to approximately 18 degrees for comfort. The captain of the aircraft is also aware that your furbaby is on board their flight. Your pet will experience very similar conditions to what we feel and hear in the passenger cabin.

Q: How Do You Calm A Cat Or Dog Before A Flight?

Due to the possible adverse effects of sedation, our resident vets recommend other alternatives such as Feliway for nervous flyers. In the lead up to your cat or dog’s travel date, you can also help prepare your furbaby by going through the travel crate familiarisation steps which will help them be more at ease when it comes time to travel.

For more information on our interstate pet travel services please refer to our interstate pet travel FAQs or fill out our price estimate form for more details.

• Travel Advice

Aussie passengers may be able to fly with pets in the cabin

A strict ban on animals in Australian plane cabins will be relaxed this year, opening up the possibility of pets being able to fly in the cabin with their owners.

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Airlines may allow passengers to travel with their pets in economy or business class when a strict ban on animals from plane cabins is relaxed later this year.

Currently, only service dogs are allowed to travel in plane cabins and all other animals are kept in the cargo hold on commercial flights under strict rules enforced by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).

But The Australian reports those rules will change from December 2, leaving it up to individual airlines to decide whether or not to allow pets in the cabin of their own planes.

Qantas and Jetstar have already ruled out the possibility but Virgin Australia is yet to make a decision, according to The Australian.

“We’ll consider the regulatory changes as part of a wider pet travel review we’re currently undertaking,” a Virgin Australia spokesman told the newspaper.

“Regardless of the outcome, designated service dogs will still be able to travel in the cabin.”

CASA spokesman Peter Gibson said there would be a number of things airlines would have to sort out before they gave pets the green light to board.

“From a safety point of view, what we’re saying is they should think about not in exit rows because the dog could get in the way … and not in the aisles,” he told 3AW Breakfast .

“You’re going to have other passengers who may be allergic to dogs and cats.

“It’s not 100 per cent simple but what we’re saying from a rules point of view is as long as the safety rules are ticked off we’re not going to get in the way of it.”

The new CASA rules suggest airlines consider how animals are contained and restrained, their reactions to noise, the nuisance to other passengers, the distraction of flight crew, as well as how “excrements or fluids” would be contained.

“A large animal should always be secured so as not to damage or affect the balance of the aircraft in flight,” the new rules state.

“A small or medium-sized animal carried in the cabin would normally need as a minimum to be restrained during takeoff and landing and in turbulence.”

Pets are frequently able to travel in the cabin of airlines in other parts of the world, including Europe and the US, where owners are typically charged a fee.

In Australia, pets – with the exception of service animals – can only travel in the cargo hold, with animal transport companies partnering with airlines to provide that service.

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Watch CBS News

Bark Air, a new airline for dogs, set to take its first flight

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: May 23, 2024 / 10:57 AM EDT / MoneyWatch

Bark Air, a new airline that puts dogs before their human companions, will take its first flight Thursday. Its sold-out maiden voyage will depart New York for Los Angeles at 4:00 p.m. EST. 

Bark, a pet company founded in 2011 that sells dog food and other products, announced the new aviation experience for canines in April. It's the second air travel service to market itself as catering to pets before human passengers, recognizing how stressful and uncomfortable commercial air travel can be for animals . United Kingdom-based public charter operator K9 jets also lets passengers' pets travel next to them in the aircraft cabin, versus in crates in commercial aircraft cargo holds.

"We are excited to take the insights we've learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies," Bark co-founder and CEO Matt Meeker said in April. "We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand's mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the Bark family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world." 

The first flight from New York to Los Angeles Thursday is sold out, according to Bark's booking website. The company said it launched the air travel experience to make long-distance travel more comfortable for dogs that don't fit under the seats in front of passengers on commercial aircraft. 

"Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to a duffle bag, or endure the stress of flying in cargo," the company said in announcing the flights in April.

Bark Air says it will offer "white paw service" to its canine customers — who'll even get to socialize with other dogs in what the company calls a "dog-centric" cabin configuration. Like first-class human passengers, dogs on board will be offered treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, a beverage of their choice and other surprises, the company said. 

Initially, the service will fly between the New York City metro area and Los Angeles, as well as from New York to London. More routes will be added soon, the company said. 

Bark Air will operate as a public charter service, flying on spacious Gulfstream G5 jets. It does not own or operate any aircraft. Each dog ticket comes with a pass for one human. Families may also purchase additional passes. Children under the age of 18 are not permitted aboard. There are no size or breed restrictions for dogs. 

The service doesn't come cheap. A one-way flight from New York to Los Angeles in June costs $6,000 for one dog and one human. A New York to London ticket costs $8,000. 

Meeker acknowledged the service's high cost in a May letter, but said he expects prices to come down as demand climbs.

"This is cost-prohibitive for most families, but less expensive than most options today. And this is also how most innovative products and services began," he said. "Televisions, telephones, VCRs and DVD players, to automobiles, train and boat travel, and, yes, even human air travel — all of these started with very high prices until demand was proven and the costs could be brought lower by serving the masses."

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.

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Travelling with pets

Cats, dogs and small caged birds can travel as checked-in baggage on all domestic flights around New Zealand provided they fly in pet carriers suitable for air travel .  

Add your pet to your domestic flight booking

If you have a domestic flight booked with Air New Zealand, please complete this form to request that your pet is added to your booking. You will need the following information:

• Your six-character booking reference (found on your flight confirmation emails and itinerary)
• Weight of pet
• Weight of pet's carrier
• Your contact details

If your booking is for a regional route and includes more than one pet carrier per person, you'll need to pre-book your pets to  travel as cargo due to the space limitations of our smaller turbo-prop aircraft.

Weigh your pet and the carrier

To help us plan for your pet's travel, we need to know the weight of your pet (to the nearest kilogram) as well as the weight of your pet's carrier. If in doubt, it's best to round upwards so that we can have accurate information for our loading teams.

See how much it costs

The pet carriage fee is payable at the airport and reflects the special treatment required to ensure the safety of your pet.

How much you need to pay depends on the size of your pet.

For bookings made before 23 May 2024:

• For pets up to 25kg: NZD $75
• For pets over 25kg: NZD $100

For bookings made after 23 May 2024:

• A flat fee of NZD $120 for all pet sizes

Book an extra bag (if needed)

To help us calculate and plan for your pet's travel in the hold, we consider your pet's checked-in carrier as part of your baggage allowance. 

Tip : when booking your flight, look for a fare with baggage allowance.

If the carriage of your pet results in you exceeding your baggage allowance, you can upgrade your booking to a seat+bag fare, or pre-pay for the  extra bag  prior to arriving at the airport and before check-in closes.

If you choose not to pre-pay for the extra bag, then the  excess baggage charge  and the pet carriage fee will both be payable at the airport.

If you are an Airpoints Gold, Elite or Koru member, you may be entitled to an additional bag at no charge.

Prepare your pet's travel carrier

We will not accept carriers where the animal is unable to naturally stand, sit up, turn around and lay down. 

For your pet's comfort and safety during their flight,  all pets  must travel in carriers that meet the current  standards approved by the International Air Transport Association  (IATA).

Get the right carrier size and set-up for your pet:

• When standing outside the carrier,   no part of your pet should be taller or longer than the carrier.
• When inside the carrier, they shouldn't have to duck to see out of the carrier door. The carrier should also be wide enough for your pet to turn around easily and long enough for them to lie down comfortably with their paws extended.
• The carrier must be fitted with a small water container that is fillable from the outside of the carrier. 
• For your pet's comfort and to avoid mess, the carrier floor must be lined with absorbent material such as paper, shredded newspaper or puppy pee pad.
• If the carrier does not meet our size and construction requirements , we will not accept the pet to board on your flight, and it may need to be rebooked for a later flight or day of travel, which could incur additional expenses. 

Animals per carrier

If you're travelling with more than one pet in a carrier, you need to meet these requirements:

• Only kittens and puppies over 8 weeks will be accepted for travel
• A mother and her litter are acceptable provided the kittens or puppies are over 8 weeks
• Up to 3 weaned kittens or puppies if from the same litter and less than 6 months old, and not over 14 kg each
• Maximum two adult pets of comparable size up to 14kg each per carrier. Pets must be familiar with each other and used to living together.
• Only 1 animal per carrier if exceeding 14 kg
• The carrier must meet our requirements and be fit for purpose

Familiarise your pet with the carrier

Ideally, your pet should be familiarised with their travel carrier at least two weeks before travel. This will help your pet feel more secure and comfortable, and reduce anxiety levels for both you and your pet. 

On the day of the flight

Help your pet get ready to travel.

After checking that your pet looks healthy and fit for travel, it's time to get ready for the flight. 

• Give your pet a light meal and a little water no less than two hours prior to departure, keeping in mind that travelling on a full stomach can cause motion sickness for pets. 
• You must put adequate absorbent material such as a puppy pee pad in the carrier. You may also wish to include a small comfort blanket or an old shirt with your scent on it.
• Before you place your pet in the carrier, make sure they have had plenty of opportunities to go to the toilet and stretch and exercise.
• Remember to put a small treat or favourite toy as well as their leash in your carry-on bag so that you can reward them at the end of their journey.

Before check-in

Please arrive at the airport 60 minutes prior to your flight's departure.  If you haven't checked in online already, please check in passengers before taking your pet to either the Special Assistance or Oversized Baggage counter (depending on the airport).

Staff will then check that the pet's carrier meets the requirements and the pet and carrier will be weighed and payment taken.

Important : we may refuse your pet's travel if the carrier does not meet the size and construction requirements .

Remember that every airport has a different configuration of where to take your pet for check-in and regulations on how your pet can arrive at the airport. 

• From Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Nelson or Queenstown , your pet must be in their carrier before arriving at the terminal
• From a New Zealand regional airport (excluding Nelson), your pet can be on a leash and placed in the carrier at check-in

After your pet has been checked in

The Air New Zealand ground staff who load the pets onboard at the departure airport and unload at the arrival airport are trained in pet travel and will do what they can to minimise stress for your furry or feathered friend.

Before being loaded on the aircraft, your pet will wait in a special area separated from the rest of the checked-in baggage. 

Generally, pets will be last to be loaded onto the flight to avoid any lengthy waits on the tarmac.

Before the flight, the pilot is given information about the loaded cargo including any animals onboard. 

Your pet will be secured in a climate-controlled space in the aircraft hold which, just like an aircraft cabin, is pressurised for their comfort. The lights are dimmed during the flight, which helps to keep pets calm.

Arrival and pick up

Your pet will be carried into the baggage arrival area by one of our team. This may be before, during or after other baggage has been delivered to the baggage claim area, depending on the airport.

To be mindful of other passengers and airport regulations, please do not let your pet out of its carrier until you have left the terminal building.

Your pet's carrier will have cable ties securing the door. If your pet is not an escape artist, you can ask one of our ground staff or the airport helpdesk team to locate some scissors to cut the ties before the next part of your journey.

Select the right travel carrier for your pet

Air New Zealand carries animals in accordance with the current standards published in the IATA Live Animal Regulations .

Cat and dog carriers

Construction of cat or dog carrier

✔  Fibreglass, metal, rigid plastic, welded metal mesh, solid wood, and plywood carriers

✔  Ventilation holes are only permitted on the upper half of three sides, excluding the door. See example

✔  The door must be open and covered with welded mesh, bars etc., nose and paw-proof

✔  The door must form the whole of one end of the carrier (can be sliding or hinged) and can't be accidentally opened

✔  The floor must be solid and leak-proof and the interior must be smooth with nothing sticking out

✔  Spacer bar must be fitted in the middle on three sides (not the door). Handles should allow easy carriage of the carrier

✔  Wheels are permitted but must be removed or inoperable when carried

✔  Water container must be fitted in the carrier

✘ Entirely welded mesh, open wire, pop-up hatch style carriers

✘ Ventilation on the upper and lower sides of a carrier

Door locking and latching

✔ The top and bottom of a plastic carrier must be fixed together using either 'bolt tightened' or another 2-step method e.g. screw & dial

✔ Minimum fasteners include one at each corner and at least 1 down each side, carriers longer than 60cm must have minimum of 2 fasteners each side

✔ Door hinge & locking pins on rigid plastic carriers must engage the carrier by at least 1.6cm beyond the horizontal extrusion above and below the door opening

✔ Cable ties must be attached to all four corners of the carrier's door to prevent it from being prised open by the animal  

✘ Latches fixing the top and bottom of plastic carrier

✘ Restraint straps etc., securing a carrier

✘ Doors that have a 'twist clip' around the locking pins

Inside the carrier

✔ You must include appropriate and proportionate absorbent material e.g. paper, shredded newspaper or puppy pee pad

✔ You can include a blanket in the carrier

✔ Please ensure your pet has had food and water prior to travelling

✘ Important: No food or toys are permitted in, or attached to, the carrier.

Use of cable ties

✔ Airport staff may use a cable tie as a secondary means of securing a cage and preventing accidental opening. 

✘ Must not be applied through ventilation holes

✘ Must not be cut short as they pose a risk of injury to your pet

For other useful information about pet carrier requirements, please visit IATA's pet corner page . 

Example of approved pet carrier for air travel

• Adequate ventilation on the upper section of three sides (not including the door)
• Top and bottom fixed together e.g. tightened bolt and screw at each corner. Minimum of 1 fixing on sides for carriers under 60 cm; minimum of 2 if carrier exceeds 60 cm
• Space bar fitted on three sides
• Leak-proof floor
• Locking pins must extend a minimum of 1.6 cm into the top and bottom lips
• Water container

Example of unsuitable pet carrier

✘ This pet carrier will not be accepted for air travel as it has ventilation holes on the lower half of the carrier's sides and does not include a water container. 

Travel cages and carriers for birds

Your bird/s may travel in a bird travel carrier, or size-appropriate cat/dog carrier may be used, provided the required perch/perches are fitted.

For birds that rest by perching, the carrier must include round perches that:

• are large enough for the birds to grip firmly and comfortably (relevant to the species)
• allow for all birds (if more than one) to perch comfortably at the same time
• are placed so droppings do not fall into food or water troughs
• are placed at such a height that the birds can leave the perch without their heads contacting the roof, nor the tail with the floor while perching
• are not placed too high within the carrier for the birds to become upset during transport.

For parrots (psittacine), that do not rest by perching, suitably sized smooth rails fixed to the floor must be provided so that the birds can feel secure.

Frequently asked questions for pet travel

How do i add a pet to my booking.

If you book directly with Air New Zealand: 

Look for a fare with baggage allowance. If you're an Airpoints member,  you may be entitled to an additional bag at no charge.

After you've made your booking, complete this form to let us know you're travelling with a pet. This helps us to dedicate space for pets in the aircraft hold. We will need to know the following details. 

• Weight of cage

If you're booking with a travel agent: 

Let your travel agent know that you wish to travel with your pet. They will then book you a fare with baggage allowance and help you with the other details.

How do I pay for my pet to travel?

Our staff will take payment when you check your pet in at the airport.

Do I need to include paperwork or vaccination information?

No, you do not need to provide vaccination or vet information for your pet's travel on domestic flights around New Zealand. 

When pups fly: BARK Air, the world's first airline for dogs, take first flight

Bark air says that it has taken the 'white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches.' that experience comes at a cost..

The first jet charter company in the world in which every passenger is a VIP (very important pup) is now off the ground.

BARK Air , launched by dog toy company BARK in partnership with a jet charter service, is a luxury airline for man's best friend that transports dogs of all sizes along with their owners “in comfort and in style,” CEO Matt Meeker said in a video provided by Reuters that takes the public behind the scenes of the new airline.

"We’re here to revolutionize flying for dogs," says BARK Air's website.

Tickets sold out for BARK Air's first flight , which took off at 4 p.m. ET from New York, headed to Los Angeles. And flights are filling fast for the month of June.

Here's what you need to know about the new airline, including how much flights cost.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Dogs take first Bark Air flight

BARK Air shared details of the company's first flight on Thursday in an Instagram post.

"Right now, at an altitude of 30,000 feet, there is a flight filled with dogs. Unlike any flight before it, these dogs are not merely an afterthought, nor are they treated as cargo or a burden to the crew and fellow travelers. Here, dogs are the foremost priority," the company posted.

BARK Air continued to say that the effort took 10 years, "but we are finally confident that we can provide all dogs with the air travel experience they deserve: one that puts them first."

One user commented that "this really is the pawfect flight!" Another said: "We woof to see this."

BARK Air's prices aren't cheap

Pet owners can expect to pay $8,000 for a one-way international flight and $6,000 one way for a domestic flight that covers both them and their dog.

For now, routes will serve the New York City metro area via Westchester County Airport (HPN), with flights to the Los Angeles area via Van Nuys (VNY) and London, England via Biggin Hill (BQH), according to BARK Air's website.

What to expect flying BARK Air

The company says that it has taken the “white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches.”

Meeker said that the airlines caters everything to the dog, "trying to lower their anxiety and their stress, so they have the most comfortable, fear-free experience on an airplane."

Food and water are provided for the pooches, and there's "even a spa treatment that happens in air," Meeker said.

BARK Air says that a concierge will learn a dog's temperament and sensitivities before the flight for the best placement on the plane. Dogs will not be caged or on leashes but will be free to sit on the seat, their human, a bed or wherever comfortable, the company says.

There are designated areas before flights for dogs to go potty and emergency pads will be available during flights.

How many dogs can fit on a flight?

Each flight fits 15 dogs and their humans, according to BARK AIR's website, but it never sells more than 10 tickets per flight. Space while flying is important to how animals roam, the company says.

Though there are additional tickets available if more than one human needs to accompany a dog, kids are not allowed to fly BARK Air. Each passenger must be at least 18 years old.

A New Airline for Dogs Takes Flight

Bark Air made its inaugural flight from New York and Los Angeles this week. But seats are pricey, costing up to $8,000

Daily Correspondent

Ask any pet parent, and they’ll tell you the same thing: Traveling with dogs is complicated.

Taking a road trip is one option, but driving can add hours or even days to the journey. And flying, while faster, presents its own set of challenges.

When it comes to pets who aren’t service animals, most commercial airlines only allow small dogs—typically, those weighing up to 20 pounds—to accompany their human owners in the aircraft’s cabin. And, even then, these companies require owners to keep their pup in a pet carrier that must be stowed under the seat in front of them for the entire flight. Larger dogs are relegated to the cargo hold beneath the plane—a terrifying and potentially dangerous experience.

Now, a new “ dog-first” airline aims to relieve all that stress. Bark Air , an airline created by the pet company Bark , took its inaugural flight on Thursday, transporting a sold-out plane full of pups and their human companions from New York to Los Angeles.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BARK Air (@barkair)

“Right now, at an altitude of 30,000 feet, there is a flight filled with dogs,” the company wrote on Instagram . “Unlike any flight before it, these dogs are not merely an afterthought, nor are they treated as cargo or a burden to the crew and fellow travelers. Here, dogs are the foremost priority.”

To deliver its “white paw” service, the company is partnering with Talon Air , a private jet charter company that flies Gulfstream G500 jets.

Before takeoff, dogs can snack on treats and wear noise-canceling earmuffs and calming jackets to ensure they have a stress-free flight. Once in the air, flight attendants serve dogs their beverage of choice to help with any ear discomfort as the plane ascends and descends. Pups can choose whether to socialize with other dogs or stick close to their human.

“We think dogs should be right next to you on the seat, getting the same or—in our case—even better treatment and experiences than people do,” Dave Stangle, Bark’s vice president of brand marketing, tells the Points Guy ’s Harriet Baskas.

The flights aren’t cheap: It costs $6,000 for a dog and its human to book a one-way flight from New York to Los Angeles, or $8,000 for a ticket from New York to London.

The company’s executives acknowledged that the prices are “cost-prohibitive for most families,” but said they expect the flights to get cheaper as demand increases, CBS News ’ Megan Cerullo reports.

“Televisions, telephones, VCRs and DVD players, to automobiles, train and boat travel, and, yes, even human air travel—all of these started with very high prices until demand was proven and the costs could be brought lower by serving the masses,” wrote Matt Meeker, Bark’s chief executive officer and co-founder, in a May letter quoted by CBS News.

United States airlines transported 188,223 animals in 2022, the most recent year with available data from the Department of Transportation . Of those, seven animals died, one was injured and one was lost, resulting in an incident rate of 0.48 per 10,000. That’s similar to the prepandemic rate of 0.47 incidents per 10,000 animals in 2019, when U.S. airlines transported 404,556 animals.

Though the overall rate is low, airline incidents involving pets often make headlines . Even when flights go smoothly, many dogs experience discomfort and anxiety while flying in the cargo hold. To illustrate this point, Meeker volunteered to ride inside a crate in the cargo hold of a plane on a nearly four-hour flight from south Florida to New York City.

“I don’t know why any person would ever choose to do this to their dog,” Meeker said in a video posted on Instagram . “It’s an absolute horror show back here. There has to be a better way.”

Bark is not the first company to offer dog-friendly flights. K9 Jets , which launched in 2022 , offers pay-per-seat private jet service for dogs and their owners. The company flies to Dubai, Dublin, Florida, Frankfurt, Hawaii, Lisbon, London, Los Angeles, Milan, New Jersey and Paris. It can also accommodate cats, though it requires them to stay inside a carrier for the entire flight.

Some private jet companies, including NetJets and VistaJet, also cater to pets on flights. VistaJet , for example, serves “prime cuts of fresh meat and fish” upon request.

“I just don’t understand why the airlines don’t recognize the business opportunity,” Rusty Rueff, who has a French bulldog named Theo, told the New York Times ’ Christine Chung last year. “We’ll do anything for our pets, just like we’ll do anything for our children.”

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Sarah Kuta | READ MORE

Sarah Kuta is a writer and editor based in Longmont, Colorado. She covers history, science, travel, food and beverage, sustainability, economics and other topics.

8 Best Dog Strollers, Tested With Pet Parents

Get across town with your dog off the ground using one of these.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Gen7pets promenade.

Pet Gear Happy Trails Lite

Best for Small Dogs

Frisco collapsible stroller.

Best With Car Seat

Wonderfold p2.

Best for Running

Pet gear jogger.

Best for Two

Ibiyaya double.

Best for Big Dogs

Booyah bike trailer, stroller & jogger.

Luxe Dog Stroller and Car Seat

Tavo pets maeve.

I've spotted dogs in strollers in Atlanta, Boston and in my city, Brooklyn. In Indianapolis, I watched a dog being happily strolled down a parade route. At first it all seemed a bit silly, but now I better understand why people are pushing their pets.

"Dog strollers are also useful for dogs with neuropathies, non-painful nerve conditions that causes difficulty walking," Conrad added, "Or for an elderly dog that can't walk as far as it used to but still wants to be out." We've also noticed that some pandemic-era pups have a hard time separating from their owner and would rather ride along on errands than be left at home. For this list our Lab pros at looked at more than a dozen top-selling dog strollers and tested among dogs of different sizes. We also poured through online reviews and Reddit forums, and consulted pet owners while also researching brands we've come to trust.

This smooth-rolling set of wheels can hold one large or two small dogs, up to 50 pounds in total, thanks to two separate tethers. The bed is wide and, to our human hands, felt comfy and springy. "I've pushed baby strollers and this is totally comparable," said a tester, who used it with a 19-pound Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. "The dog loved it."

The Promenade has the largest and most sturdy basket of all the ones we tested. You can't just reach into it, you'll need to bend down and unzip a zipper at the back to access the space. The nice part about that is nothing can fall out when you zip it back up. There's also a useful pet-parent console with two cupholders and a storage compartment that clicks shut.

We found folding the stroller to be fairly easy during testing, though it did take a minute to learn the process. Our only hiccup was the assembly; you must insert two pins into the back wheels, which takes good eyesight and dexterity. (You might need to phone a friend!) But even with that, it came together in less than 15 minutes. Gen7Pets also makes our favorite roller bag pet carrier.

You can find even under-$50 dog strollers out there, but our experts felt they were just too rickety to recommend. We prefer this value choice, which comes in under $100, but has relatively substantial wheels and an overall sturdy feel. Happy Trails Lite is also easy to fold and the lower storage basket, though only 10" x 10", is deep enough at 7 inches so that contents don't roll out. Plus, there are two cupholders.

The top dome shuts with a latch, not a zipper, which allows you to quickly secure your dog or let it back out . It's a nice feature for owners and also for nervous pets who don't like the sound of a zipper. At press time, 75 percent of the Happy Trails Lite amazon reviews were five-star ones.

This is best suited for small dogs as it only holds up to 25 pounds and the bed is 22 inches long. Though the seat is compact, the handle is still 40 inches tall, a suitable height for tall pet parents. It's fairly lightweight at 13 pounds, though that means it bounces a bit over the sidewalk so it's not as smooth-rolling as our top choice.

This lightweight choice also comes in under $100. If you're nervous about assembling a stroller, this one is no sweat. We were able to snap the wheels on and have it ready to go in about four minutes . For such a lightweight stroller (at 11 pounds), it rolled well and turned easily while our tester was walking with it, thanks to its swiveling front wheels. The bed itself is small (only 19 inches long), but it's nearly 10 inches deep and our 20-pound tester dog enjoyed lying in this one and peering out the front mesh panel.

The Frisco brand is a Chewy exclusive. We've previously praised Frisco's hard-to-destroy plush toys for dogs. Chewy customers report using this dog stroller for French Bulldogs and similar-sized pets.

The detachable cupholder is fairly loose, so our tester used it for a water bottle only. ("I would not trust it with a cup of take-out coffee," she said.) The storage basket is shallow yet fits several dog toys. Folding the stroller is a bit awkward but, once folded and locked, it's slim and easy to store.

Related: Our favorite dog harnesses from Chewy, Amazon, Walmart and Petco

With its removable pet bed, the P2 can function as both a dog stroller and a dog car seat —plus it can be a dog carrier, essentially giving you three products for the price of one. You fold the frame out of your way and cart the bed as a carrier using the shoulder strap, making this a nice choice if you frequently transition your pet in and out of your car. Your vehicle's seat belt can attach to straps on the side of the carrier and hold it in place in your backseat. (Read the manual carefully for full instructions.)

"Folding and unfolding is really simple and works well," said a tester who used this with a 10-pound miniature poodle. "The only thing is that it's not great for going over big cracks on a walkway or sidewalk. We hit hard a few times and stopped instantly." Some of the three-wheelers on our list rolled better over bumps, but the P2 does fine if your sidewalks are relatively smooth or you push your dog around a simple park path. This could also be a perfect choice for getting your dog through a crowded station or airport (though if you need the carrier itself to fit under an airplane seat, we have smaller choices in our dog carrier story).

Leatherette details give this a high-end look and a durable feel, especially at the handlebar. The sling basket is the most open and shallow on our list and not able to hold much. There's also a basic, detachable cup holder that hangs off the side.

A dog stroller with large tires and a fixed front wheel allows running or jogging with your pet — extra exercise for you, and a fun outing for them. The 12-inch tires on this model are gel-filled, not air-filled tires, so they provide a smooth ride over most terrain yet can't go flat (unlike some other popular dog joggers on the market, which have to be sold with air pumps and which need more tire maintenance).

Because of the robust tires and frame, you can take a medium-sized or fairly heavy dog in this, as long as it's less than 75 pounds and 28 inches long. That means this is also a great choice even if you only intend to walk but you have a chonky dog who weighs more than the 30 pounds that most regular dog strollers can hold.

Like other Pet Gear strollers, this is zipperless; the mesh latches shut for easier entry and exit. There's plenty of mesh ventilation along all sides for breathability and a panoramic view out the front. It comes with a console that has two cupholders. The basket on this is shallow and both the assembly and the fold are a little more difficult than with other models, because of those big tires.

If you've got two dogs, you'll want a double dog stroller. Actually this double-decker model has two tethers in each of the two compartments, so you could safely transport up to four pets if you've got a brood of small dogs or stroller-loving cats. The brand touts this as a way, for instance, of taking multiple pets to a dog or cat show.

The top compartment is small — less than 16 inches long, and only able to hold 13 pounds — but if you aren't using it for a second pet, it can instead make a nice basket for your own storage. So, say, you're visiting an outdoor market, you can fill that up while your dog sits below. (That larger bed on the bottom holds a dog up to 33 pounds.)

There's no underseat basket storage on this one, but there are pockets on the back of each compartment as well as two cupholders. Assembling is on the easy side but it really helps if you watch the instruction video, which is the second brand video to play on the product's Amazon page.

Booyah Bike Trailer, Stroller & Jogger

Booyah's large dog stroller is not for storing in an apartment. You'll need a garage or shed that you can just wheel it into, because with the giant tires it weighs 40 pounds. It's all worth it if you have a big dog, because this is made to take a large dog on outdoor adventures and can be hitched to a bike or pushed like a doggie jogging stroller.

The wheels can pop off so you can store this in your vehicle to get where you're going. We only tried it as a stroller, not as a bike trailer, and most reviewers seem to also push this rather than pull it, but it is sold with a bike hitch.

An advantage of this kind of stroller is it's low to the ground, so if your dog is too big to lift, you can help them step in — the dog bed is about a foot off the ground. The brand's extra large dog stroller can fit up to 110 pounds or, if you've got a small dog you want to take on bike rides, Booyah makes a small dog bike trailer .

It was only a matter of time before pet strollers got as fancy as baby strollers, and this one is a high-end modular system that functions as a gorgeous stroller, car seat and carrier. The Maeve is made by Nuna, which makes our favorite baby stroller for frequent travelers , and it's got the smooth wheels and easy steering you'd want from gear with this price tag.

The "pod" that your dog rides in clicks on and off the stroller frame. In car-seat mode there's a stability leg you can use and built-in side impact protection. The brand says its dog car seat meets United Nations ECE child-restraint standards and is even crash-tested (for dogs, not children), labeling the whole thing a "pet protection system." It could be a worthwhile investment for people who drive often with their dog in the backseat.

There's a plush mattress and also two machine-washable mattress covers, plus nice details like leatherette trim and a pet-parent organizer on the handle. This one is for medium dogs; Tavo also makes a Maeve for small dogs .

How we test dog strollers

Good Housekeeping Institute pros evaluate pet gear (and kid gear) regularly, and we frequently publish pet-care advice .

For this list of the best dog strollers, we considered bestsellers and new dog strollers from reputable brands. In home tests conducted by both our experts and consumer testers we assessed more than a dozen models, timing how long it took to assemble each stroller. Then we pushed dog strollers along bumpy sidewalks with a dog inside and rated the ease of folding after our walks. We ranked strollers for extras like cupholders and storage. Finally, we interviewed pet owners who use dog strollers, read through online reviews to be sure we weren't missing any important details and checked Reddit forums before finishing our recommendations.

What to look for when shopping for the best dog stroller

When picking out a dog stroller for your best friend, consider:

✔️ Weight limit: Compact dog strollers can't carry as much weight as the larger strollers, but it's important for your pet's safety that you find a model that can hold your dog's weight. If you want to use a dog stroller to carry two pups, add their weight together and make sure you buy a stroller that can accommodate that total.

✔️ One tether or more: A must-have safety feature is a tether inside the dog stroller that attaches to your pet's collar, so it can't leap out. If you want to stroll with two dogs, look for a model that includes two tethers.

✔️ Bed length and width: Measure the length of your dog and be sure it is a little shorter than the length of the dog bed on the stroller. When in doubt, go larger — it's best that your dog has some room to turn around and get comfortable. One dog-stroller brand recommends buying a stroller with a bed at least 2 inches longer than your dog. Look at the width too, and measure how wide your dog is while sitting or lying down to be sure they won't be cramped.

✔️ Strolling or jogging tires: Most dog strollers are meant for walking, in which case small plastic wheels will do. If you intend to run with the stroller or tackle rough terrain like a hiking path, look for a model with larger wheels, which provide more stability and a smoother ride. If you'll be jogging, the front wheel should lock so you can go straight without the stroller tending to veer to the side, which can happen if you try to move fast with a stroller that has a swiveling front wheel.

While large tires roll better, they'll add weight to the stroller and prevent it from folding as compactly as a stroller with small wheels. Pick which you want more: A heavy stroller that rolls smoothly but is still somewhat large when folded, or a lightweight and compact stroller that bounces a bit over cracks and bumps.

✔️ Number of tires: Eight weak tires are worse than three high-quality ones, so quality counts far more than quantity. In general, a stroller with three wheel positions is made to take on rougher terrain (but not always; again, check how big and robust those tires are first). Strollers with wheels at all four corners generally provide a stable ride on a smooth path.

Can a dog ride in a baby stroller?

No, pets should always ride in a pet-specific stroller, like Mickey is doing (pictured). Don't put your dog in a baby stroller or a toy stroller because:

✔️ Dog strollers have a tether to clip to the collar so your pet doesn't leap out . If your dog sees a squirrel and wants to give chase, you won't have a runaway as long as your dog is clipped in.

✔️ The seat is a flat bed in a pet stroller, so that your dog can lie down. A baby stroller is usually angled, not flat, and it's not comfortable for an animal who either wants to rest or stand up and see the sights.

✔️ Most pet strollers can be completely enclosed with mesh that zips or latches shut . This is another way to prevent a dog or cat from escaping, and it lets you provide a bit of privacy so your pet isn't bothered by curious kids or nosy canines.

On the flip side, you should never put a baby in a pet stroller. Pet strollers have none of the safety features required for a baby or a toddler. We also noticed in testing that there are plenty of pinch points when you fold these dog strollers. If you're opening or closing a dog stroller and have a young child, be sure they stand off to the side. For your kid's use, see any of our favorite baby strollers .

How to care for your dog stroller

Pet strollers are made with water-resistant fabric to repel rain and to prevent the bed from getting ruined if your dog has an accident. All parts can be wiped down with a disinfectant wipe for cleaning. If the wheels get muddy you can rinse them with a hose.

The interior pads can be removed and washed with soap and water in a sink, then air-dried. Most have a stiff plastic or a wooden board inside to provide stability, so they can't go in the washing machine.

Many users report lining a stroller with a dog blanket or pet bed to make it more plush. Teddy (pictured) often visits the beach so his owners line his dog stroller with a beach blanket. Some brands sell bolsters; for instance there's a fuzzy stroller pad that matches with our value pick, Happy Trails stroller from Pet Gear (and it can be machine-washed).

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing consumer products for nearly 125 years. Scientists, engineers and experts of every sort test appliances, cleaning products, home goods, beauty products and yes, items for pets such as dog beds and cat toys . Many of our Lab pros are also pet parents.

This article was written by Contributing Writer Jessica Hartshorn , who previously covered pet gear and baby gear for Parents magazine. She leaned on dog-owning friends, relatives and consumer testers to provide real-life feedback on dog strollers but also personally assembled and pushed top choices with some of her favorite neighborhood dogs. You can also read her picks for the best dog jackets and the best cat carriers .

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Air travel has gone to the dogs — literally. Here’s what to know about BARK Air

Rachel Treisman

BARK Air officially launched this week, completing its first flight from New York to Los Angeles on Thursday. It also flies to London and aims to add more routes in the coming months. Joe Gall/BARK hide caption

Flying with your dog in first class may sound like a far-fetched dream for many pet lovers. But a new boutique airline launching this week aims to make the “white paw experience” a reality.

BARK Air describes itself as “the world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second.”

“BARK Air has taken the white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches – from booking to arrival, to in-flight services and disembarkation, dogs will truly be the VIPs and treated to a positively luxurious, curated experience,” it said in an announcement last month .

Grounded: Emotional Support Animals No Longer Guaranteed Free Flights

BARK Air officially got off the ground on Wednesday afternoon, when its inaugural flight ferried six dogs of varying breeds — from Chihuahuas to a Golden Retriever — and 11 humans (both passengers and crew) from New York to Los Angeles.

The Very Important Pups were treated to chicken-flavored puppuccinos, special cupcakes and a shoe — on a platter — to snack on, according to BARK Chief of Staff Katharine Enos. She told NPR over email that there was “no drama on board.”

“Brooklyn (dachshund) and Eddy (golden) [were] friends and played and the little dogs took nice long naps most of the way,” she added. “After lunch it was nap time for everyone. No potty accidents on board or stolen food either! Everyone felt connected in the way we were obsessed with our dogs.”

Introducing BARK Air: A 100% totally real airline for dogs. We're dog people, and we are tired of there being no truly dog-friendly options when it comes to air travel. Now booking the best-in-class dog focused flight imaginable at https://t.co/eZqVYMC5W3 pic.twitter.com/bzcY2rSO4h — BARK (@bark) April 11, 2024

The airline is a subsidiary of BARK, the company behind dog-focused brands like the subscription service BarkBox. Co-founder and CEO Matt Meeker says he’s been working towards this idea for over a decade.

He was inspired by his late Great Dane Hugo, who traveled with him often but could never fit on a plane — like many non-lap dogs, Hugo would have had to fly in the cargo area rather than the cabin. (Meeker even flew from Florida to New York in a cargo crate to show how disorienting that experience can be, as part of Bark Air’s promotional campaign.)

Many airlines have tightened restrictions for emotional support animals on board in recent years. The logistics and cost of travel can be a highly emotional issue for many families who don’t want to leave their dogs behind when relocating, let alone vacationing, Meeker says.

“We don't think of ourselves as selling dog toys or seats on an airline,” Meeker told NPR in a phone interview. “We think of ourselves as selling awesome emotional experiences with your dog.”

Shots - Health News

The cdc issues new rules for bringing dogs into the u.s., aimed at keeping out rabies.

It’s also an expensive one: BARK Air flights between New York and LA cost $6,000 for one dog and one human (or one human and two dogs collectively under 50 pounds) in each direction, and one-way flights between New York and London go for $8,000.

Potential customers were quick to bemoan the cost, with one social media user joking that her pup would need to start selling “paw pics” to make it work.

Meeker acknowledged that “the price is high, and it’s too high.” But he said innovations, especially related to transportation, often become less expensive over time — and he hopes that will be the case with BARK Air, too.

“We have pretty clear ways of bringing those prices down if the demand is there, and that’s what we aim to do,” he added. “We want to make this affordable and accessible for as many dogs as possible.”

The airline aims to pamper passengers, both pups and people

The airline doesn't have dog size or breed restrictions but only allows humans over age 18 (or 126 in dog years). Joe Gall/BARK hide caption

On BARK Air, the drinks come in bowls, leashes replace seat belts, champagne is made of chicken broth and the bathroom is, well, anywhere.

“When they feel they need to go, they go,” Meeker said of the dog. “And then we clean up after them. And then we clean the plane between every turn.”

It’s one of the many unique perks — and logistical challenges — of an airline for dogs. BARK has partnered with a New York-based charter company called Talon Air, which provides the pilots, flight crew and plane, a Gulfstream V.

The jets accommodate 14 human passengers, but BARK is capping them at 10 to offer extra space. Meeker says it aims to make the experience as comfortable as possible for dogs, starting “even before the flight.”

BARK Air will do a “pup intake” to learn about the dogs’ temperament and preferences. On the day of the flight, humans are advised to show up an hour early to the terminal, where they’ll present their ID and walk straight onto the plane.

Do your kids want a dog? Science may be on their side

“And so what we've bypassed there is a busy commercial airport and a very rigid TSA environment, and treating the dog as just another piece of luggage,” Meeker said.

Dogs and humans get served their meals — and stow away their toys — before the flight takes off to avoid potential territorial disputes. Once in the air, dogs are offered perks like a spa treatment and blankets covered with pheromones for extra comfort. Meeker says the in-flight crew is trained in dog CPR and “fear-free behavioral practices.”

The airline has no dog size or breed restrictions, but humans must be over 18 (aka 126 in dog years). Once on board, humans are advised to keep their dogs leashed as much as possible and ask before approaching others’.

Meeker, who traveled with his dog on two recent test flights between Florida and New York, says people hoped the dogs would misbehave for purposes of the experiment — but they did anything but, even during moments of “pretty significant turbulence.”

“They calmed everyone down, they floated around, they'd take someone’s seat,” he said. “A strange dog, like, not your dog, would wander up, sit on the couch next to you, put their head in your lap, and it’s like, ‘Oh, that’s great.’ ”

He added, “I don’t know why I’m surprised by this, but the dogs made it magical.”

Demand already appears to be taking off

BARK Air is partnering with charter company Talon Air to offer several flights per month. Some are already sold out for June and July. BARK hide caption

Meeker said the initial reaction to BARK Air’s launch has been “really overwhelming and positive.”

BARK Air is offering about four round-trip cross-country flights a month, with several already sold out for June and July. It’s already planning to expand its routes, starting with a New York to Paris trip beginning in the fall.

“About a third of people apparently buy their air travel six months in advance,” he said. “So we just published our schedule through the end of the year in order to serve that crowd better.”

The airline is soliciting requests for additional destinations, and Meeker said it received over 15,000 in the first week alone.

How to keep your pets cool and safe during a heat wave

They’ve heard from military families who are moving, people who travel for business and New Yorkers spending summers outside the city — all of whom want their dogs there too. Meeker also noted significant demand from snowbirds who want to go south with their dogs for the winter and many requests for flights in and out of Chicago.

“We're just processing that information and choosing the dates, and we're learning a lot,” he added.

He hopes the forthcoming data will allow the company to make more cost-effective decisions soon.

“We’re probably doing this the most expensive way we could, which is chartering a private plane from a private owner,” he explained.

The next step would be to make a longer commitment with the charter company, leasing the plane for a month or even a year to bring down costs. Even better would be buying and outfitting a plane. Meeker has his eye on a Boeing 747 model with a back half dedicated to cargo that could serve as an additional source of revenue.

He says this team already has a design that would feature private cabins with lay-flat beds, a central “dog park” and a bar, for dog and human socializing, respectively.

“That’s the dream,” he added. “But it’ll take a little bit of time to get there.”

• airline industry

Inside luxury airline for dogs where you can fly with your pet - but it'll cost you

Not all airlines allow dogs to join you in the cabin as some only offer spots in the hold of the plane, or even if they are able to travel in the cabin, some pets don’t like to fly this way. Introducing Bark Air, the first airline built 100% for dogs.

A pet-loving TikTok creator filmed her experience traveling on Bark Air’s first flight, a newly launched luxury airline for dogs with awesome amenities including pup-friendly champagne and tasty treats.

Woman goes on Bark Air’s first flight with her dog

While dogs can travel on planes, many airlines require them to sit in the hold of the aircraft, and some will only accept animals if they are guide/support animals.

Melanie Demi (@herboozytails) is a travel content creator who was invited to fly on Bark Air’s inaugural flight with her pet dog named Brooklyn.

The creator shared the adventure in a TikTok video and finalized the clip by rating the entire experience “a 10 out of 10.”

・ MORE PET HACKS: All pet owners should follow ingenious voice recording ‘trick’ if they’re leaving their pet for vacation

Dogs, just like humans, need a passport to travel from country to country. Brooklyn was given a ‘pup passport,’ they met the captain and then boarded the plane.

Bark Air operates with a private charter which flies out of a private airport, meaning there is no waiting around before getting on the plane.

There were eight people and four dogs on the inaugural flight, and once the dogs had settled, the guests got to meet and hear from Matt Meeker, the CEO of Bark Air.

Matt Meaker announced the launch of Bark Air in April 2024, describing it as his “dream” that’s now come to life and explained the reason he came up with the idea: “I always wanted to travel long distances with my big boy, Hugo, but there was never a reasonable option available.”

In the viral video, Melanie Demi explains that Bark Air even offers a menu that was mostly for the dogs, also showing earmuffs that the pups could wear, and then they were up in the air.

The Bark Air model is a pay-per-seat charter service, meaning guests pay for one seat, which includes you and your dog. There are 10 human seats available on the plane.

The airline offers tons of amenities for the pets, including doggy champagne and lots of treats. The TikTok video even shows Brooklyn paying a visit to the captain and sitting in the cockpit of the plane!

If dogs are friendly, well-behaved, and under voice control, they can get up and roam around the plane. However, if there are any nervous or reactive dogs, the airline will cater to them.

New luxury airline for dogs of all sizes and breeds

In partnership with a charter jet company, Bark Air is designed to prioritize four-legged travelers, followed by their humans, so they can travel together comfortably and conveniently.

In terms of routes, Bark Air is currently flying to Los Angeles, New York, and London and will soon be adding Paris, France to its list.

Safety is guaranteed as Bark Air has a trained veterinary technician on every flight to help monitor and care for the dogs. The vet tech is also trained in first aid and CPR for all breeds in case of emergencies.

Bark Air is a private charter service and the price to travel from Los Angeles to New York flights costs $6,000 per human (including 1 dog), and New York to London costs $8,000.

Dogs can go to the bathroom until right before getting on the plane (and right after getting off), otherwise, they should hold it. In case of puppies or senior pups who cannot hold it, an emergency potty pad can be laid down.

There are no breed or size restrictions and a concierge team is dedicated to making the best experience possible, available to answer questions and ensure all needs are met, including a complimentary car service and more.

・ DID YOU KNOW: Most pet owners view their dog or cat in one of two ways

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• Spring Water Campground , 2539 Route 130,....
• Valens Conservation Area , 1691 Regional Road 97,....
• Kouchibouguac National Park (South Kouchibouguac) , 186 Route 117,....
• Saint Petersburg
• Restaurants

Florida is known for its beaches, and who doesn't love spending a day or two at the shore? But, for a deeper appreciation of all Florida has to offer, make time to discover its natural treasures, first-rate cultural attractions, and hidden gems. Admire the wildlife at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, stroll the Tampa Riverwalk, dotted with restaurants, bars, museums, and entertainment options, or visit some of the 35 breweries along the Gulp Coast Craft Beer Trail. Sunny Florida is home to plenty of surprises--and that makes it an exciting pet friendly vacation destination.

Best Time To Visit

Spring and fall are the ideal times to plan a pet friendly trip to Florida. You'll find fewer crowds and lower hotel rates than those available in summer and winter. And visiting during the off-season means more beaches are open to pets! April and May are plenty warm to enjoy the surf and sand, but fall can be even better with less chance of rain spoiling your plans. September and October are lovely, though there is more chance of a hurricane. November is the driest month of the year, and in many people’s opinion, the best for a visit anywhere in the state.

Things Not To Miss

With 663 miles of shoreline, Florida has a beach for everyone—including your pets! Our favorites are Fort Myers Beach, Fort De Soto Park, and Walton Rocks Dog Beach.

Looking to turn back the clock? Visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in St. Augustine and then stroll around the historic downtown.

Admire the many murals and outdoor art exhibits in Miami's Wynwood District. (Miami-Dade County enforces a discriminatory pitbull ban. Consider this before making your travel plans.)

Feel the wind in your fur on a cruise aboard the Shell Key Shuttle in St. Pete Beach.

Celebrate sunset every evening with street performers, artisans, crafters, kid’s games, and food vendors at Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach.

Spend a few days enjoying the beaches, state parks, and charming towns on Florida's Forgotten Coast.

Leave it all behind and drive 120 miles down the Florida Keys to snap a picture at the southernmost point in the continental United States.

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Flights take off for the new Bark airline, where you can pay $6,000 to travel with your dog

Champagne. Extra leg room. Priority boarding. These are all nice-to-haves for a first-class flight experience. But at Bark Air, calming pheromones, music, and calming jackets are just a few amenities for the VIP guests on the flight—very important pups, that is. 

Bark , which is beloved for its monthly treat-and-toy subscription boxes for dogs, on Thursday offered its first cross-country flight from New York City to Los Angeles on its newly launched charter airline. The company is differentiating itself from commercial airlines where small dogs or service animals join their human companions, instead making the flight experience dog-first.

“We built our service to be 100% focused on the dog,” Dave Stangle, vice president of marketing for Bark, tells Fortune . Bark Air’s concierge service “really [goes] above and beyond pampering every single dog, getting to know them from the minute that they booked their ticket.”

To start, Bark Air will have flights from New York City to Los Angeles and London with one-way flights costing roughly $6,000 to $8,000, but pricing will vary based on routes and time of year. Humans don’t pay anything for their ticket. However, Bark Air hopes to be able to offer lower prices as demand increases and more flight routes are added. 

“The reality is we have to start with this model because the upfront costs are really expensive,” Stangle says. “And to us, [price] wasn’t a good enough reason to not do it. We knew there was demand at this price range.”

Bark Air’s prices are, indeed, competitive with other charter airlines offering similar services. U.K.-based K9 Jets offers a range of flights in Europe and the U.S., which can cost up to $14,000 based on current offerings. 

“We’re very excited that we’re still getting tons of bookings, because that means in the future we are going to be able to invest a lot more into this and that will help us bring the cost down to capture more of an audience,” Stangle says. 

The in-flight experience for dogs

Before Bark Air’s official maiden voyage on Thursday, the airline offered several test flights to ensure the booking, boarding, and in-flight experience was seamless for dogs and their human companions. The airline’s catchphrase is “Dogs Fly First,” a motto that rings true from the time of booking until the pup reaches its final destination.

After booking, Bark Air contacts the owner to collect information about each dog, including size, temperament, and any preferences. They do this in order to have a good mix of dogs on the aircraft so as not to overcrowd. While there are typically about 10 to 15 seats on each flight available, Bark Air won’t crowd the flight if, say, several large or extra-large dogs book a seat early on.

“If we put a flight up and the first five people to book all have 80-pound Labs [or] really big dogs, then we might cap it off early,” Stangle says. “Having the concierge in place and being able to get to know every passenger as they book gives us a ton of control over the in-flight experience. That way we can make sure all the dogs are happy and comfortable.”

Then, on travel day, dogs and their companions just need to arrive at the airport about 45 minutes to an hour before takeoff. This gives the VIP passengers a chance to meet their puppy friends ahead of their flight. Bark Air passengers are also treated to meals prepared by onsite chefs—and don’t have to worry about crates, TSA checkpoints, or other screening. 

“It’s fun to turn these airport lounges into mini dog parks,” Stangle says. 

Other flight prep includes calming pheromones, music, and colors that “pups prefer,” according to Bark Air. And during the flight, Bark Air also offers calming treats, noise-canceling earmuffs, and calming jackets—as well as their “beverage of choice.” Plus, Bark Air organizes a seating chart so dogs who like to play with one another can do so throughout the flight, and more reserved dogs can just sit with their owner and be left alone, Stangle says. 

Future service expansions

At launch, Bark Air wanted to offer flights where it was the trickiest—or essentially impossible—to get without driving in a car. That’s why they started with cross-country flights and flights between the U.S. and the U.K., Stangle says. 

“We’re planning on expanding to a lot more routes way faster than we thought initially,” Stangle says. So far, Bark Air has gotten requests for routes to and from Texas, Colorado, and Florida, as well as other countries including Brazil and Paris. Currently, the airline generally flies to and from the U.K. about twice per month, and flies weekly between New York and Los Angeles. 

“We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs—from the ground to the skies,” Matt Meeker, cofounder and CEO at Bark, said in a statement .

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Vote for your favorite dog bar!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Dog bars have become popular spots for pet owners who want to socialize without leaving their furry friends behind. These unique establishments offer a space where dogs can mingle and play, while their owners relax and enjoy a drink. These 20 dog bars, nominated by an expert panel as the best in the U.S., cater to pooches with off-leash play areas, and they often feature dedicated menus for your pup. Which dog bar is your favorite? Vote once per day until the polls close on Monday, June 24 at noon ET. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, July 3. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules .

Dog bars have become popular spots for pet owners who want to socialize without leaving their furry friends behind. These unique establishments offer a space where dogs can mingle and play, while their owners relax and...   Read More

Best Dog Bar Nominees

Photo courtesy of Bar K

Missouri and Oklahoma

Bar K has three locations (Kansas City, St. Louis, and Oklahoma City) and offers a spacious dog park alongside a full-service restaurant and bar. Your pup can socialize and even enjoy their own plate from the pup menu. 

Photo courtesy of Mary Swift / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Bark Bar & Grille

Little Rock, Arkansas

Set in Little Rock, Bark Bar & Grille is a dog-friendly neighborhood hangout nestled in the heart of downtown. Friendly pups can romp off-leash at the indoor/outdoor dog park, where they're supervised by a park ranger. Dogs must be pre-registered before their visit. 

Photo courtesy of Chris Rubacha

Bark Social Bethesda

North Bethesda, Maryland

Visitors to Bark Social in Bethesda love the chill vibes and pub fare, but above all, it's a super cool place for your best friend to play and socialize. The large off-leash dog park is a great space for your pup to release play energy, and they can cool off with a pupsicle or puppy ice cream afterwards.

Photo courtesy of alexei_tm / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Buffalo, New York

Barkology is a fun destination for both dogs and their humans. The indoor/ outdoor dog park is clean and spacious, and pet owners can grab a drink and socialize as they watch their furry friends romp around. 

Photo courtesy of Irina Nedikova / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar

Sarasota, Florida

Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar is a spacious facility with indoor and outdoor dog parks, where humans and dogs can grab a bite to eat. There's plenty of room for pups to mix and mingle off-leash in this former ice house.

Photo courtesy of Nataba / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Boozehounds Palm Springs

Palm Springs, California

Boozehounds is the ultimate Palm Springs destination for you and your pup. Dine at one of their outdoor tables with your dog and order a treat for them from a paw-friendly menu of delicious items.

Photo courtesy of West Chester Views

The Boozy Mutt

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Hailed as Pennsylvania's very first indoor/outdoor off-leash dog bar, The Boozy Mutt offers doggy goodies on their menu for your best friend. Let your pup burn off some of that play energy and order a burger for yourself and some well-deserved homemade biscuits for them.

Photo courtesy of Nastasic / E+ Getty Images

The Dog Bar (Charlotte)

Charlotte, North Carolina

The Dog Bar, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, offers beer and cocktails, along with a large outdoor off-leash area for your pups. Although they don't serve food, they welcome guests to bring takeout from other places. In warmer months, they also have live performances. 

Photo courtesy of Scott Keeler

The Dog Bar (St. Petersburg)

St. Petersburg, Florida

If you're with your pup in St. Petersburg, The Dog Bar is where you want to be. This membership-only sports bar and off-leash dog park features a huge selection of 31 draft beers and many food truck options. There are several areas for you and your dog to hang out, along with plenty of TVs for watching sports.

Photo courtesy of Dogwood

Dogwood Play Park

Seattle, Washington

Located in the Evergreen State, Dogwood Play Park offers an indoor/outdoor off-leash play area for your pup. Human visitors can enjoy a cold beer or a glass of wine as they watch the jubilant interactions.

Photo courtesy of Stephen Ochs

Hugely popular with locals and tourists alike, Fetch Park has five locations in Georgia. Open 365 days a year, they offer a huge off-leash dog park for your four-legged buddy to romp and play. Check out their events page for live music, fundraisers, and other fun happenings.

Photo courtesy of Bevan Goldswain / iStock / Getty Images Plus

HopHounds Brew Pub & Dog Park

Mobile, Alabama

Looking for a great place to grab a beer and socialize your pup? HopHounds Brew Pub & Dog Park is your place! With a spacious outdoor playground and obstacle courses, your dog will definitely keep busy as you relax and enjoy with family and friends. 

Photo courtesy of The Hounds & Tap

The Hounds & Tap

Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin

The Hounds & Tap is a tavern, dog park, dog daycare, and grooming facility all in one. The membership-only establishment offers over 2,500 square feet of indoor space, along more than 5,500 square feet of outdoor areas for play. In the summer, they provide pools to help keep your pup cool.

Photo courtesy of amandafoundation.org / E+ Getty Images

Omaha Dog Bar

Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha Dog Bar's spacious 17,000-square-foot facility is a fantastic place for both you and your best friend. There's an indoor and outdoor play area for your pup, along with a doggy daycare. You can grab a pizza for yourself and order your furry pal a doggurt.

Photo courtesy of The Pack Indoor Dog Park

Comstock Park, Michigan

The Pack is a lively restaurant, bar, and indoor dog park located in Comstock Park, Michigan. The off-leash park is supervised by an attendant, so you can rest assured there's no foul paw-play. Dogs need to be registered in advance. 

Photo courtesy of Cheyenne Daley

Pub Dog Colorado

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Pub Dog Colorado features a restaurant and bar, as well as an indoor/outdoor dog park that welcomes your furry friend with open arms. It's the only restaurant in Colorado that allows people to dine indoors with their pups, so it's hugely popular. You'll want to arrive early because they don't take reservations. 

Photo courtesy of EmilyOnTime / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Thirsty Social Club

Belmont, North Carolina

The Thirsty Social Club is a fun, family- and dog-friendly place to hang out in Belmont, North Carolina. There's an off-leash dog area for your pup, where humans must be 18 and over, as well as an on-leash area that's great for families. Dogs can romp and play, while humans sip on beverages.  

Photo courtesy of urbazon / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Unleashed Hounds and Hops

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Unleashed Hounds and Hops is an indoor and outdoor dog park, serving up drinks and delicious pub fare. Grab a beer, order one of their mouthwatering sandwiches, and watch your pup engage in some serious play in the spacious facility. 

Photo courtesy of Wagbar

Weaverville, North Carolina

Wagbar offers your pup over 25,000 square feet to play and explore, while the eclectic bar offers an assortment of drinks. There are also several food trucks on the property to satisfy cravings.

Photo courtesy of Kriste Sorokaite / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Austin, Texas

Located in the vibrant city of Austin, Yard Bar features an off-leash dog park. Popular for its handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, the dog park is 20,000 square feet, offering your pup plenty of room to sniff and explore.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Jean chen smith.

Jean Chen Smith is a freelance journalist who has...   Read More

Jean Chen Smith is a freelance journalist who has been producing content for over 15 years. With a love of travel and storytelling, her intention is to create content to inspire and connect people to places, things, and experiences. Her articles have appeared in AARP, Travel and Leisure, 1859 magazine, Insider Travel, USA Today, Family Vacationist, The Oregonian, SFGATE, weekand.com, and more. When not writing or teaching Pilates at her studio, she enjoys trail running, spending time with her pups Tonka and Paisley, and reading suspense novels.

Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards...   Read More

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards Production Manager and Social Media Director for USA TODAY 10Best, has a special interest in unique culinary experiences and  off-the-beaten-path adventures. Catherine is the founder of  Her Bags Were Packed  where she focuses on helping  women release emotional baggage through solo travel and self-discovery.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.