british airways pet travel to uk

A Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Pet Travel with British Airways

In-Cabin Pets with British Airways

British Airways only allows assistance dogs trained and certified by an organization that is a full member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) to travel in-cabin. Emotional Support Dogs and other pets without certification are ineligible for in-cabin travel.

Contact British Airways directly for pricing, booking, and specific requirements for your assistance dog. Remember to comply with the pet import requirements of your destination country.

Remember that even though your dog will be traveling with you in the cabin, you’ll still need to follow the pet import requirements for your destination country.

Unaccompanied Pets or Pets Traveling as Cargo with British Airways

British Airways' sister company, IAG World Cargo, handles live animal transportation via cargo with expertise in moving pets.

Ensure your pet's travel crate meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards for type and size. PetRelocation can guide you in finding the right crate for your pet.

To make cargo reservations, submit an inquiry on the IAG Cargo Website within 14 days of your pet's travels. IAG Cargo's specialized pet staff will assist with safe routing and inform you of the necessary steps.

When booking, provide the following information:

• Shipper information (name, address, phone number)
• Consignee information (name, address, phone number)
• Travel details (departure and arrival airports, flight day)
• Pet details (name, age, sex, species, breed, weight, kennel size)
• A picture of your pet with the travel kennel

Note: British Airways may request that you work with a dedicated pet-shipping company like PetRelocation to organize your booking.

Breed Restrictions with British Airways

• British Airways restricts certain breeds. Consider another airline if your dog is a Bulldog, Pug, Pekinese, Bull Terrier, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, or Pit Bull.

Pricing Structure for IAG Cargo

• Air freight charges are based on the kennel's chargeable weight (volume) in kilograms. Additional fees, like fuel surcharges or security fees, are based on the pet and kennel's combined weight. Transit or entry charges may apply for certain routes.

For assistance with your cargo booking, contact PetRelocation for safe pet travel options.

Questions about traveling with a pet?

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Home > Airline Pet Policies > British Airways Pet Policy

British Airways Pet Policy

Can my pet fly with me in the cabin? Selected flight only Can my pet fly with me as checked baggage? No Can my pet fly with me as manifest cargo? Yes

In-Cabin Pet Policy

Service Dogs

British Airways will accept service dogs must have been certified by an organization that is a member of Assistance Dogs International or International Guide Dog Federation trained to assist a disabled person. Notification to the Animal Reception Center should be provided at least 7 days in advance. A pre-approval letter will be issued that must be presented by the ARC must be present at check-in, along with all required documentation to enter the United Kingdom.

Checked Baggage Pet Policy

British Airways does not offer checked baggage service for live animals.

• Preparing Your Pet's Crate for Travel
• More Info on Airline Pet Policies - British Airways

Air Cargo Pet Policies

British airways will transport live animals as manifest (air) cargo through the services of iag cargo and an agent is required to book the transport. contact us if you need assistance with an agent ..

Pets Allowed:

Dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, hamsters, monkeys, ferrets, snakes, tropical fish and other animals. Larger animals (cattle, horses, etc.) will be handled by an approved agent. Pets flying as cargo willl need to make arrangements with an approved agent to fly with IAG Cargo which handles British Airways live animal cargo transport.

Forms Required:

Health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian at least 10 days prior to travel will be required. All forms required for your destination country should be attached to the crate.

Check in at a IAG Cargo cargo facility (not reservations desk) 4 hours prior to international flights and 2 hours prior to domestic flights. Health certificates issued shortly prior to travel will be required. Consigners will be asked to sign a Form of Indemnity to cover British Airways against any costs arising from any pet not passing the PETS checks on arrival and having to go into quarantine. Pet crate requirements are as stated below.

Route Restrictions

British Airways will not transport live animals from Kuwait. During summer months, pets will not be accepted on flights out of Dallas/Fort Worth. Due to high temeratures, pets will not be permitted on flights in or out of Beijing or Shanghai.

Temperature Restrictions:

British Airways understands the additional risk to live animals transported during the higher temperatures of summer and lower temperatures of winter. Your pet may not be granted boarding if the temperature in any city on your itinerary is forecasted to be above 85°F (30°C) or below 45°F (7°C).

Crate Requirements

Crates must be sized properly for pet with length being measurement from tip of nose to base of tail plus half of length from elbow to ground. There should be a clearance from the top of head OR the tip of ears, if they normally stand erect.

British Airways will not accept Series 100 crates (typically used for smaller pets) except on USA and Canada flights.

Your pet must travel in an IATA-compliant pet crate . Have a crate already? Is your crate IATA-compliant? Need accessories for your crate ? Click here for more information on crate requirements .

• Need an IATA compliant pet crate?
• Need an Agent to Transport Your Pet?

Airports Served

British Airways is based in London and serves cities on six continents including North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. It has the largest fleet in the United Kingdom.

British Airways is also approved to fly into London Heathrow and Gatwick which are approved Border Inspection Posts in the UK.

Puppies and Kittens

• Traveling with a puppy

Banned Breeds

No dangerous dogs, Bulldog breeds or Pugs are not permitted. Other snub nosed pets must travel in crates at least 10% larger than normally required.

Snub-nosed dogs will be transported in larger crates than normally required on routes where the temperature does not exceed 75°F. British Airways considers the following breeds as snub nosed: Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffin, Chow Chow, English Toy Spaniel, Japanese Chin and Pekinese.

Other Animals

Need more information?

To the best of our ability, we ensure that recommendations given on PetTravel.com reflect the current regulations. We cannot predict how a given airline may enforce these regulations. Noncompliance may result in the need to deny your pet boarding privileges. We suggest that you minimize the disruptions that may occur by following the rules of the airline your pet is flying.

Further detail on import permits, costs, tests and procedures are available at minimal cost at PetTravelStore.com . We also stock all the equipment and accessories you will need for traveling with your pet. Same day shipping Monday through Friday until 4:00 PM EST.

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If you need any free help or advice on shipping your pet, feel free to call us on 01206 330332. You can also find out how much it would cost by clicking the button below and getting a free no obligation quote.

British Airways Pet Travel

Approved british airways pet travel agents with over 30 years’ experience.

If you need any free help or advice on shipping your pet, feel free to call us on 01206 330332. You can also find out how much it would cost by clicking the button below and getting a free no obligation quote. BA are the major players in the IAG Cargo group of airlines. There are many routes from the UK that are only served directly by BA, such as Bermuda from Gatwick or Nassau from Heathrow, so this can make the choice of airline easy.

The Gatwick animal reception centre is a brilliant facility where pets are only ever handled by ‘animal people’ and luckily BA use this for all pet shipments. At Heathrow, the pets are delivered directly to the BA Cargo facility where they are held in their own animal room in the cargo warehouse before being taken directly to the aircraft by British Airways staff.

British airways will not carry Bulldogs of any type, Pugs or Pekingese, but do carry most other breeds. Bullmastiffs, Boxers, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus and other breeds with flatter faces must travel in a kennel 10% larger than would be normal for their size to increase ventilation. They will carry cats like Persians, Himalayans and Exotics using these bigger crate rulings. Fetchapet travel crates are generous anyway, so these restrictions don’t really affect us.

BA will only tranship onto an onwards flight in certain Caribbean destinations, so we only normally use them for direct flights.

British Airways Pet Transport FAQs

Yes. British Airways are one of the most popular pet friendly airlines in the UK. BA will ship most breeds of cats and dogs, or bulldogs of any type, pugs or pekingese. To find out if your pet can be shipped with BA call 01206 330332 now for free advice.

No. British Airways does not allow emotional support animals in the passenger cabin. Emotional support animals are only allowed to be transported as cargo on British Airways flights.

No. British Airways does not allow pets in the cabin. Pets are only allowed to be transported as cargo on BA flights.

The price of flying a dog with British Airways is determined by the size of the dog and destination you’re shipping to. Because of this, prices range between £2600 – £8000. To find out exactly how much it would cost to transport your dog with British Airways fill out our online quotation form by clicking here .

The cost of flying a cat with British Airways ranges between £2600 – £2800, depending on the location you’re shipping the cat to and the size of your cat. To find out exactly how much it would cost to ship your cat with British Airways, enter the details of your cat into our online quotation form. Click here to get a quote .

Yes, pets can usually be flown in the same aeroplane as you when you use British Airways. We advise you book a flight for your pet before booking your own, as it’s easier and cheaper to make changes to your pets booking than it is yours. And when you use Fetchapet, we allow you to reschedule your pets flight for free, and only charge a small administration fee for multiple changes.

British Airways Pet Shipping

Dog Export With BA

Thinking of flying your dog with British Airways? We’re here to help! Either call our team now for free advice or click the button below for a free quote.

Cat Export With BA

Need to fly your cat with British Airways? Our expert team are here to assist. Call us now on 01206 330332 or click the button below to get started today.

Get A Free BA Pet Air Travel Quote

If you would like to find out the total British Airways pet travel cost for your pet, click the button below and fill out our online quotation form. All pet shipping quotes are free and come with no obligation.

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• Travel with pets

Everything You Need To Know About Flying With Pets To The U.K.

Are you traveling with your dog or cat on a plane to the United Kingdom for the first time and need help figuring out where to start? We’ve got you covered and are here to help alleviate your worries and answer your questions!

Since the U.K. has left the European Union, many rules and regulations for flying with animals into the region have changed and can differ from those you’d typically follow if you’re traveling with your dog to Europe and landing in an E.U. member country.

Keep reading as we give you the low down on the airline pet policies you need to be aware of, the fees and requirements you can expect to encounter, and all the travel essentials you’ll need for your vacation with your beloved pet.

• Can I Fly To The U.K. With My Pet?

In most cases, bringing dogs, cats, or ferrets is quite straightforward, provided you arrive with all the necessary paperwork. If you’re flying with exotic animals, it can be a more complex process depending on where you’re traveling from, but it’s still possible to enter if you’re flying with other animals like rodents, reptiles, and rabbits.

What many travelers may not be aware of is that the regulations for flying to England, Scotland, and Wales vary from those applied in Northern Ireland. Despite being part of the U.K., Northern Ireland still follows E.U. regulations, but we’ll get into more detail later.

• What Are The Rules For Bringing Pets To The U.K. After Brexit?

This is where things can get a little confusing! The post-Brexit rules have affected airline policies and required documents leading to a rule variance between Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) and Northern Ireland.

It’s a good idea to stay informed of the changes we’ve outlined below.

Since leaving the European Union, the E.U. pet health certificate is no longer one of the standard documents required to enter the U.K. with your pet, having been replaced by the Great Britain health certificate.

However, as Northern Ireland shares a land border with the Republic of Ireland, an E.U. member, you’ll follow the E.U. rules if traveling here. This means that pet owners visiting Northern Ireland from countries in the Union can use their pet’s E.U. pet passport, while those arriving from outside the E.U. must present an E.U. pet health certificate.

Make sure you double-check that your pet’s journey is one of the approved routes ; otherwise, you may not be able to enter, as some airlines can only allow pets on board when landing in particular airports.

What Are The Airline Pet Policies, Rules, and Limitations I Should Know About?

An important rule that may come as a surprise to many pet owners is that animals aren’t permitted to travel in the cabin if you’re visiting the U.K . The only exception to this is if you’re flying with service dogs. However, many airlines can carry your pet as manifest cargo.

Up to five pets per person are allowed to enter the U.K., though many airlines tend to have their own pet policies. These generally limit pets to one or two animals per person unless you’re traveling with small animals of the same species and breed that can fit in the same carrier.

As is often the case when traveling with pets, where you’re flying from and the airline you choose can determine the rules and limitations you must abide by. For reference, flying with your dog with United Airlines isn’t an option if you’re heading to the U.K.

Many airlines don’t have a cargo service and therefore can’t permit any animals to board flights to the U.K. This can limit the airlines that can allow your pet to travel. Check out British Airways , Delta and Lufthansa , as these are some of the best airlines for traveling with dogs and all operate international cargo services.

• What Does Manifest Cargo Mean?

More than likely, your pet will need to fly to the U.K. as manifest cargo, meaning they’ll travel on a cargo plane to your destination.

Many airlines offer their own pet cargo service, and you’ll also find lots of pet relocation companies that can take you through the process, too.

When your precious pooch flies as manifest cargo, it will be placed in its crate into a pressurized, temperature-controlled part of a cargo plane. Flight schedules will often ensure you’ll land at your dog-friendly travel destination before your pup, giving you time to get prepared for their arrival.

Having your dog or cat travel in the hold of a cargo plane can be an understandably anxiety-inducing experience for both you and your pet. Below are some of the benefits of manifest cargo travel to help put your mind at ease.

• You can track your pet using codes provided by the airline or relocation company.
• The staff members are trained to give the best care to your pet before, during, and after the flight.
• Animals are loaded onto the plane last and are the first to be unloaded, minimizing their time on the plane as much as possible.
• The hold where pets travel is designed with animal safety in mind.
• Which Airlines Allow Pets In A Cabin When Flying To The U.K.?

Currently, no airlines allow pets to travel in the cabin on flights to the U.K. due to the rules set out for pet air travel by the U.K. government. This rule applies regardless of whether you’re visiting from Europe, the U.S.A., Asia, or any destination.

However, if you’re traveling with assistance or service dogs, your animal can join you in the cabin. Unfortunately, this rule doesn’t extend to those flying with therapy dogs or emotional support pets.

What Fees Can I Expect To Pay To Fly With My Pet To The United Kingdom?

How much does it cost to fly a pet from the u.s.a. to the u.k..

When you’re bringing your furry friend to the U.K. from the States, they’ll have to fly as cargo, which means they won’t be traveling on the same plane as you. Instead, they’ll fly on a specialized cargo plane that will arrive in the U.K. as close to your landing time and date as possible.

You’ll need to pick your airline carefully, as only some don’t permit flying with your dog or cat internationally. For example, flying with dogs with JetBlue or flying with cats with Southwest will limit you to North American destinations .

Unfortunately, it’s impossible to give a breakdown of expected costs, as prices can vary hugely and airlines tend not to have a fixed cost, providing quotes based on your pet and destination. For transatlantic flights from the U.S.A. to the U.K., you can expect to pay anything from €500 – €4000 to ship your pet.

How Much Does It Cost To Fly A Pet From India to the U.K.?

If you’re traveling from further afield, you’ll likely face costs that may be even higher than those flying from the U.S.A.

Let’s say you’re traveling from a popular Asian destination like India, You’ll first incur some additional costs as you’ll need to present a negative rabies test, as well as your dog’s health certificate and vaccine records. Unsurprisingly, flying with a large dog will be more expensive.

Transporting your best friend from India to the U.K. will be costly but incredibly difficult to estimate, as this is a huge distance for your pet to travel. You might find yourself paying fees of more than €5000.

• Do I Need A Pet Passport Or Health Certificate?

What Is A U.K. Pet Passport And Do I Need One?

A pet passport is a travel document containing up-to-date, relevant information about your pet’s age, health, and vaccination history.

Anyone bringing their pet to the U.K. from E.U. nations and other countries, including Norway or Switzerland , can enter the U.K. with a pet passport from their own country or a Great Britain health certificate (more on that next).

If you’re flying from the second list of countries , which includes countries like the U.S.A ., Mexico , and Japan , you’ll need to obtain a Great Britain health certificate as you can’t use a pet passport from your own country.

What Is The Great Britain Pet Health Certificate And How Do I Get One?

The Great Britain Pet Health Certificate is a document that details your pet’s health, weight, vaccines, and microchip number, much like a pet passport. Dogs, cats, and ferrets can travel with this certificate. Take a look at the pet health certificate form , which you must bring to a certified vet to complete.

If the vet believes your pet is well enough to travel, they’ll fill out the form with all the necessary information about your furry friend. Each certificate is only valid for 10 days before your departure, so be sure to visit the vet within this timeframe.

Are you visiting from the U.S.A.? You’ll need to get your certificate endorsed by the USDA before flying to validate it. With this in mind, give yourself as much time as you can when booking your vet appointment, and avoid waiting until a day or two before you depart.

How Do I Get My Pet A Health Certificate For Travel?

First things first, you’ll want to make sure you know what certificate you need a few months in advance, whether it’s a pet passport or a Great Britain health certificate. If you require a health certificate, it’s best to contact your vet and check that they are licensed to declare your pet safe for travel, as you’ll need to locate a certified vet if not.

Next, take a look at your pet’s vaccination history to ensure they’re up-to-date with all of their shots, but especially their rabies vaccines, as this is compulsory for entry to the U.K. Book an appointment with your vet if your companion hasn’t been fully vaccinated against rabies, keeping in mind that initial doses need to have been administered at least 21 days before travel.

Once your pet is fully vaccinated, you can schedule a consultation with your vet up to 10 days before your trip. At this point, the vet will assess the animal’s health and travel risk. If it’s safe for your four-legged friend to fly, your vet will complete and sign the health certificate.

Will I Need To Get Another Health Certificate Before I Return To The U.K.?

You might be wondering how the pet travel process works if you reside in the U.K. and return from a holiday.

Thankfully, it’s usually quite straightforward. Your pet’s animal certificate is normally valid for four months, meaning you won’t have to pay a visit to a vet abroad if you haven’t visited countries outside the Pet Travel Scheme or where rabies is prevalent.

Anyone who’s been out of the U.K. with their pet for longer than four months will need to check in with a local vet to issue a new certificate for the return journey.

• What Countries Are Part Of The Pet Travel Scheme?

Many countries are members of the Pet Travel Scheme, a program that’s in place to minimize animal quarantine for dogs, cats, and ferrets.

Though the documents you require to enter the U.K. can depend on where you’re coming from, if you’re flying from a member country, you can rest easy knowing you won’t have to worry about your pet undergoing quarantine on arrival.

As well as the U.K., countries that partake in the Pet Travel Scheme include E.U. members, the U.S.A., Singapore , New Zealand , and the U.A.E. , among many others. Countries that aren’t involved in this scheme tend to be nations where the risk of rabies is high. Unfortunately, this can mean animals flying from the likes of China or India may require quarantine after landing in the U.K.

• How Do I Import My Pet Into The U.K.?

Once you’ve started organizing your dog or cat’s flight to the U.K., you can be swamped with information that can make the planning process a headache!

Below, we’ve broken all the must-dos into steps and added tips to help you manage your journey with minimal stress.

• Check that your dog meets the criteria for canines permitted to travel to the U.K., as some breeds are prohibited from entering (we’ll give you some examples a little later).
• Research which airlines offer cargo service to the U.K. and compare their restrictions and fees, based on your dog’s size, weight, etc. Most airlines offering a cargo service have fare calculators online to give you a rough idea of what kind of costs you’ll be looking at.
• Some airlines offer online booking for dogs traveling in the cargo, though it’s always a good idea to give them a call for any new or changing rules.
• Inquire about direct routes rather than connecting flights where possible, as layovers can make the experience more nerve-wracking for your pet and can lead to additional costs for you.
• Start ticking all the accessories you’ll need off your packing list, including a suitable kennel with the correct dimensions required by the airline, leak-proof bedding, and food and water containers that can be refilled from outside the crate.
• Give your pup plenty of time to adjust to their kennel, ensuring they feel safe and comfortable spending extended periods inside. Crate training for a few months ahead of your flight will make the experience much less stressful for your pet.
• Book an appointment with your vet within 10 days before your flight to get your pet’s health certificate.
• Make a note of where you’ll need to drop off your pet and where you’ll collect them after you both arrive in the U.K.
• Keep your documents organized, as your pet’s certificates and microchip will be checked after landing. Making copies of all your paperwork is your best bet, as the airline and U.K. border control may request or hold onto some documents.

What Are The Regulations For Flying With A Dog To The U.K.?

The U.K. imposes certain restrictions on dogs entering the region. Here are some factors that may make some dogs ineligible to fly to the U.K.:

• Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies.
• Only dogs 15 weeks old and above can travel.
• All dogs must be microchipped and ISO-compatible chips are preferred.
• Dogs can’t fly without a health certificate, which can be tricky to obtain for elderly or unwell pets.
• Dogs must have had tapeworm treatment.
• Snub-nosed breeds like French bulldogs and pugs often can’t travel in the hold as they may have difficulty breathing.
• Aggressive dog breeds, including pit bulls, Japanese tosa and fila Brasileiro, are banned from the U.K., while some airlines have additional restrictions on what breeds can fly with them. This extends to dogs that are a mix of an aggressive and non-aggressive breed.

What Are The Regulations For Flying With A Cat To The United Kingdom?

Similarly, cats traveling to the U.K. must meet specific criteria to fly. Take a look through the regulations for cats:

• Cats require health certificates, microchips, and rabies vaccines to enter the U.K., much like dogs.
• Cats must be no less than 15 weeks old.
• Wolf hybrid or savannah cats may require additional documentation.
• Will My Pet Need To Be Quarantined In The U.K.?

As long as you have all the necessary documents for your pet and they appear in good health on arrival, there’s no need to panic about quarantine!

If you happen to be arriving from countries that aren’t on lists 1 or 2, you’ll need to follow some additional steps and prepare extra documents to prevent your pet from being quarantined. This can include rabies test results and proof of additional vaccines.

• What Documents Will I Need To Fly To The U.K. With My Pet?

You might find that the paperwork you’ll need can depend on where you’re arriving from and the airline you’ve picked, but these are some of the documents you can expect to provide for your pet’s journey:

• A pet passport, Great Britain health certificate, or animal health certificate from a registered vet, depending on where you’re traveling from.
• Proof of rabies vaccination.
• Records of other vaccines your pet has received.
• Details of your pet’s microchip.
• Blood test results if visiting from a country with a high risk of rabies.
• Are There Any Other Import Requirements Or Regulations I Should Know About?

Some other regulations regarding the import of pets that it’s best to be aware of include:

• Cat owners arriving from Australia must provide documents from the Australian Department of Agriculture to confirm their pet hasn’t been in contact with the Hendra virus during the 60 days before their trip.
• Dogs and cats coming from Peninsular Malaysia must arrive with a certificate from the Malaysian government stating that your pet hasn’t been around pigs in the 60 days prior to your flight, as well as a negative blood test for the Nipah virus.
• Dogs, cats and ferrets that have been given the Canvac R vaccine, must be at least 17 weeks old to travel, while animals that have received the Canvac DHPPiL + R vaccine must be a minimum of 21 weeks old.
• If your pet appears unwell after being checked after landing, you’ll need to choose whether to place your pet in quarantine or have them returned to where they departed from.

How Do Commercial And Non-Commercial Pet Travel Compare?

A major bonus of non-commercial flights is the difference in rules for traveling with large dogs on planes and flying with dogs and cats in the cabin.

If you travel to the U.K. on a non-commercial flight, your pet can join you in the cabin, which is prohibited on all commercial flights to the region.

This has become a popular way to travel for pet owners who prefer flying with big dogs in the cabin rather than in the hold. It also makes flying with small dogs possible if your destination, like the U.K., doesn’t permit in-cabin travel with animals.

Of course, this comes with a price, as you’ll quickly see that flying with your dog with Delta or flying with a cat with American Airlines is significantly cheaper than flying on chartered planes. Non-commercial flights can be incredibly expensive, so it’s best to steer clear unless your pet can’t fly as cargo.

• Can I Bring More Than 5 Pets To The U.K.?

Animal lovers hoping to visit the U.K. with more than five pets can only do so if you’re attending or training for a sporting event or competition.

If this applies to you, you must provide a written declaration stating that you’re attending or training for an event and proof of registration at the event in question. All of your pets must be at least six months old and meet the standard pet travel requirements.

This number differs between countries. For example, if you’re traveling with a dog to Canada, there is no limit on how many animals you can enter with, while anyone traveling with a cat or dog to Mexico can only fly with two pets.

Want more interesting tips and information on traveling? Read more Kiwi.com articles!

• Introduction
• What Are The Airline Pet Policies
• What Fees Can I Expect To Pay To Fly With My Pet To The U.K.?

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Flying Pets in Cargo on British Airways

If your pet is not a trained service animal, he will need to travel as cargo. On British Airways, the animal, weather, and timing largely determine cargo availability. Many pet owners fly their animals as cargo when they do not plan to travel with the pet. With some airlines, you may be able to arrange for same-flight cargo transport. This is not the case with British Airways, whose cargo is handled by IAG World Cargo—a sister company.   

To ensure you may successfully fly a pet in cargo with British Airways, here is the information you need.   

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How much does it cost to fly a pet with British Airways? The cost will depend on your pet’s size and travel zone. Prices can range from $196 to over $1,000 per pet. For more information, see the  cargo website .   

Who handles British Airways Cargo? AIG World Cargo—a sister company of British Airways.  

How many animals/pets are allowed on each flight? Availability is variable.   

Which animals  can  fly British Airways Cargo? Dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, hamsters, monkeys, ferrets, snakes, and tropical fish.   

What are the crate requirements? Crate size depends on the animal’s dimensions. IAG Cargo provides a helpful crate  calculator .    

What pet travel forms are required? All animals require a health certificate issues by a licensed veterinarian at least ten days prior to travel. All forms should be attached to the crate.  

How to Book Pet Cargo Reservation with British Airways

IAG Cargo is a different department. To make a reservation, see their  website . If flying an animal as cargo, you must check in at an IAG Cargo facility, not the reservations desk, at least four hours prior to international flights and at least two hours prior to domestic flights. Pet parents will be asked to sign a Form of Indemnity to cover British Airways against any costs arising from your pet needing to enter quarantine.  

Other Types of Pet and Animal Travel with British Airways  

• Flying with Pets in Cabin  
• Service Animal Policies   
• British Airways Pet Policies  

More FAQ Information About Pets in Cargo  

Is there a difference between flying an animal as checked baggage and flying him a cargo? Yes. An animal flying as checked baggage is on the same flight as you. In this case, you will drop him off at the check-in counter and pick him up in excess baggage claim upon arrival. An animal flying as cargo flies separately and must be processed at a cargo facility. British Airways only offers cargo transportation for non-service animals.  

What are the carrier requirements and options for British Airways pet policy? The minimum requirements for cats is a series 200 kennel (27”L x 20”W x 19”H). The container must be strong enough to protect the pet during transport, contain it, and provide sufficient ventilation on all four sides. The door must be secured in such a manner that it will not open accidentally, and your pet’s nose and paws should not be able to fit through any ventilation opening or door mesh. Fiberboard, wire mesh, and wicker containers are not suitable for air transport.   

You must only use a container if the animal is traveling as cargo. Therefore, the crate must have a water pot and a food container accessible from the outside. For more information about the IATA Live Animal Regulations, see their  website .   

Does British Airways provide any statements regarding brachycephalic animals? British Airways does not mention any limitations on transporting brachycephalic animals. However, IAG World Cargo requires that short and snub-nosed animals travel in a container that is 10% larger than the minimum. The airline considers the following breeds to be snub-nosed: Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffin, Chow Chow, English Toy Spaniel, Japanese Chin, and Pekinese. Bulldogs and pugs are not permitted.  

Does British Airways mention any environmental concerns? As with most airlines, British Airways understands the additional risk associated with live animals traveling in extreme temperatures. Your pet may not be allowed to board if the temperature in any city on the itinerary is forecasted to be above 85 or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. This applies only to animals traveling as cargo.

Which UK Airlines Allow Pets Onboard in 2024?

Unlike elsewhere in Europe, most airlines in the United Kingdom don’t allow pet dogs and cats to fly in the cabin or even as check-in baggage. While most European airlines allow pets to fly in the cabin , this is not allowed on most UK airlines, due to government regulations. So, what are the rules when it comes to flying with dogs and other pets in UK, both in the cabin and as cargo?

Do Any UK Airlines Allow Pets in the Cabin?

Unfortunately, no UK airline allows pets to fly in the passenger cabin (at least any commercial flight that flies in and out of commercial airports). The only animals that are permitted to fly in the cabin are registered assistance dogs.

The rules and processes are slightly different for each airline, but check out these guidelines from British Airways for an example. Assistance dogs may still not be allowed on all routes (for example, only on international routes flying to approved airports).

Additionally, emotional service dogs are specifically excluded by at least British Airways and Wizz Air UK.

This restriction also applies to airlines from other countries flying into the UK. The pet travel rules state that pet dogs and cats are not permitted to fly in the cabin on any flight into the UK, or even as checked baggage.

However, there are a small handful of airlines that allow dogs to fly in the cabin or as checked baggage when leaving the UK. (Many airlines simply don’t allow pets in both directions.) I’ve listed them in this post , but make alternative plans for the return journey.

Note: Some small airlines that can only fly less than 20 passengers, that I didn’t include in this article, may allow pets to travel in the cabin. An example is the Skybus to the Isles of Scilly, off Cornwall, England. Click here for more details. Chartered jets are another exception.

Do Any UK Airlines Allow Pets as Checked Baggage?

The regional Scottish airline Loganair allows pets to travel as checked baggage on most of its domestic flights, that operate within the common travel area of the UK, including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, and the Republic of Ireland. Only dogs and cats are permitted, with a weight limit of 32kg including their crate.

The advantage of flying with a pet as checked baggage is that you can simply drop off and pick up your pet at the passenger terminal, rather than at the separate cargo facilities. Pets still fly in the hold of the aircraft.

Which UK Airlines Accept Pets as Cargo?

Out of the remaining UK airlines, less than half allow pets to travel as manifest cargo, both on domestic flights and international flights in and out of the country. This includes: Aer Lingus UK, BA CityFlyer, BA EuroFlyer, British Airways and TUI Airways. (Virgin Atlantic previously flew pets as cargo, but this is temporarily unavailable.)

In contrast, all pets except for assistance dogs, are not permitted on flights operated by these un-pet-friendly airlines: Eastern Airways, EasyJet, Jet2.com, Norse Atlantic UK, Ryanair UK, Virgin Atlantic and Wizz Air UK.

Note that if you are transporting your pet as cargo on a plane, usually you will need to book separately for your pet through the cargo company that handles the airline’s cargo.

Plus, you will need to drop off and pick up your pet at the cargo terminal, which is usually not adjacent to the passenger terminal. Allow extra time and be aware of the procedures.

Flying with a Dog on UK Airlines

Aer lingus uk.

Pets Allowed Onboard? Cargo only

Aer Lingus UK is a subsidiary of Aer Lingus, the Irish flag-carrier, headquartered in Belfast and with operations based at Manchester Airport. It launched in October 2021 and currently operates flights to the USA and seasonal flights to Barbados.

Like parent airline Aer Lingus, pets are not allowed in the cabin, only trained service dogs, subject to requirements. Pets are only accepted for travel in the hold as cargo, with bookings through IAG Cargo.

Click here for the full pet policy of Aer Lingus.

British Airways (including BA CityFlyer and BA EuroFlyer)

The British flag-carrier airline, British Airways flies to a long list of both domestic and international destinations, reaching every part of the globe. They also operate two subsidiary airlines, the regional airline BA CityFlyer that operates out of London City Airport and BA EuroFlyer that operates out of London Gatwick Airport.

Unfortunately, British Airways, including BA CityFlyer and BA EuroFlyer, doesn’t allow pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage. Only recognised assistance dogs are allowed to fly in the cabin, for no charge.

All other pets, including emotional support animals, need to travel in the climate-controlled hold of their planes as cargo. This can be booked through PetAirUK for pets departing the UK and IAG Cargo for pets flying to the UK.

The one exception is on flights operated within Europe by SUN-AIR under the British Airways brand. One small pet in a very small carrier up to 6kg is allowed in the cabin, except for on flights to the UK.

Click here for full details of the British Airways pet policy.

Eastern Airways

Pets Allowed Onboard? No

A small airline headquartered at Humberside Airport in North Lincolnshire, Eastern Airways operates a range of routes across the British Isles, France and Denmark, plus seasonal flights to and from Jersey.

Eastern Airways does not permit any pets on board their flights, other than guide dogs for passengers for disabilities.

For further details on their baggage policy, click here .

The largest airline in the UK based on passenger numbers, the low-cost airline Easyjet services over 900 routes to over 150 airports in 34 countries.

Unfortunately, you can’t take your pet along on their discounted flights, with no animals allowed apart from recognised registered guide and assistance dogs.

Click here for their policy.

Jet2.com is the third-largest scheduled airline in the UK. A low-cost leisure airline based out of Leeds Bradford Airport, it flies from 10 airports across the UK to over 60 popular destinations across Europe.

While Jet2.com used to permit pets on-board, this airline no longer allows any pets to fly on their flights. Only registered assistance dogs are permitted on all UK domestic flights and international flights where permitted, booked through their Assistance Team.

Click here for further information on their policy.

Pets Allowed Onboard? Checked baggage

A Scottish regional airline servicing destinations in the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, the Republic of Ireland, Denmark and Norway, Loganair is the most pet-friendly airline in the UK.

Loganair is the only UK airline that permits pets to travel as checked baggage. This applies on nearly all of their “domestic flights”, where domestic flights are defined as those operating within the common travel area of the UK, including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, and the Republic of Ireland.

There are a small number of domestic flights where pets are not carried. Pets are not accepted on the routes to Barra, Tiree and Campbeltown, where the flights are flown by small Twin Otter aircraft. Pets are also not accepted on routes to and from London City Airport.

Additionally, Loganair does not fly pets on any of its international routes – basically its routes to and from Denmark and Norway. This is not surprising given that pets can only fly into the UK as cargo, not as checked baggage.

Only dogs and cats are accepted, with a minimum age of 12 weeks and some snort-nosed breeds excluded. Bookings are subject to available space – only a single crate is accepted per flight, with a maximum weight of 32kg. However, in some cases two pets from the same family can travel in the same crate.

There is also an embargo on pet carriage on most flights over the festive period, roughly between the 17th December and 3rd January inclusive, due to the higher amounts of luggage typically carried.

To fly with your dog or cat as checked baggage on Loganair, there is a charge of £50 one-way. They need to fly in a suitable, leakproof container and you will also need to complete a form at the airport.

Note that assistance dogs accompanying disabled passengers can travel in the cabin, on both domestic and international flights, as long as it legal for them to arrive at your destination.

For the complete Loganair pet policy, click here . Further details are also listed in the Carriage Conditions .

Norse Atlantic UK

Norse Atlantic UK is a subsidiary of Norse Atlantic Airways, a low-cost long-haul Norwegian carrier. Based at Gatwick Airport, it commenced flights in March 2023, primarily to destinations in the United States plus in the Caribbean.

Initially, they had no policy for flying with pets, but now they have a clear policy stating no pets are allowed, in the cabin or in the cargo hold. Only trained served dogs are permitted to fly in the cabin free of charge on all flights.

Ryanair UK is a subsidiary of Ryanair, the Irish low-cost carrier, based at Stansted Airport.

Like parent airline Ryanair, pets are not allowed on any Ryanair UK flights. Only guide and assistance dogs are allowed on the majority of their routes.

TUI Airways

Formerly known as Thomson Airways, TUI Airways is the largest charter airline in Europe, mainly operating flights on behalf of tour operators.

Pets can be carried on most TUI flights in the cargo hold, except for snub-nosed and dangerous breeds, including cross-breads. The cargo hold is temperature and pressure controlled. Bookings should be made through their Cargo Department run by ECS Group.

Additionally, assistance dogs can travel in the cabin free of charge, presuming all the requirements of TUI Airways have been met.

For more information, click here .

Note that TUI Airways in the UK is not the same as TUI fly in Europe , that does allow animals up to 10kg to be carried in the cabin and larger animals to fly in the hold as checked baggage.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic is a full-service airline flying to destinations scattered around the globe, although diminished in size since the events of 2020.

Up until 2020, while Virgin Atlantic didn’t permit pets to fly in the cabin or as checked baggage, it did transport pets as cargo, even operating a Flying Paws scheme. Bookings were organised through Virgin Atlantic Cargo, with pets transported in a secured, heated and air-conditioned compartment.

Bookings were only permitted to and from selected destinations, with some restrictions on time of the week from some destinations (e.g. no pet transport on flights leaving the UK on a Saturday or Sunday). Some destinations also required the use of an agent, and certain breeds were excluded.

However, as of late 2023, the pet product of Virgin Atlantic Cargo remains unavailable, although it states this is still only temporary. Only assistance animals can fly on Virgin Atlantic planes, in the cabin on all routes.

Click here and here for their latest pet policy.

Wizz Air UK

Wizz Air UK is a subsidiary of the Hungarian budget airline, Wizz Air. Headquartered at London Luton Airport, it also operates from Gatwick Airport in the UK, in conjunction with its parent company.

Just like its parent company, pets are not permitted on Wizz Air UK flights. The only exception is for guide dogs accompanied by the required documentation. Emotional support animals are also explicitly excluded.

Click here for more details.

You May Also Like

• Flying Out of the UK with a Dog
• How to Travel with a Dog Between the UK and Europe
• How to Travel with a Dog to the UK from Outside Europe
• Taking a Dog to the USA from the UK

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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75 thoughts on “Which UK Airlines Allow Pets Onboard in 2024?”

Thanks for sharing your blog post! I regularly travel for business and sometimes feel bad that I’ve had to leave my pooch at home. Although our pets aren’t allowed to fly with us it’s interesting to read a blog that is written for both travellers and pet-lovers! Willow at GSE Solutions.

Great to hear! Thanks Willow

Hi I have just moved across to America florida and really want to bring mu small toy poodle out with us but he suffers from. Anxiety and would be really anxious going in the hold, isthere any chance at all that he can fly in the cabin from the uk internationally to Florida, ihave read that it is not possible has anyone had any experience with this? Thanks

Firstly, it depends on the size of your dog. European airlines generally have a weight restriction of 8kg, including the carrier, although there are some differences. Two of the best options from the UK is to fly with a European airline via the continent to the US, or alternatively fly with Air Canada, firstly to Canada then the US. Another option is to take a taxi in the Chunnel across to Paris, then fly with La Compagnie that have a higher weight limit. I’ve detailed these options in: https://www.travelnuity.com/taking-a-dog-to-usa-from-uk/

Thanks for this list. I’ll be sure to share it my friend’s website. He offers exactly this type of information for U.S. airlines. https://www.dogsonplanes.com/airlines/

Hi, looking to travel from Scotland to Gran Canaria with 3 small / medium dogs, any ideas if this can be achievable? Kind regards Sharon

Iberia Express flies to Edinburgh and Gran Canaria, and transports dogs in both the cabin and hold when leaving the UK (although keep in mind you’ll need to find another route if you return to the UK). I would call up and double check, in case the information on their website is out of date.

However, you may have an issue due to number of pets you have. There is a restriction on 2 pets in the hold. Hopefully at least one of your dogs can travel in the cabin, or else if there’s two of you, then fly on separate flights. Here’s their full pet policy: https://www.iberiaexpress.com/en/general-info/passenger-information/before-you-go/travelling-with-pets .

How can I travel from Amsterdam to Belfast with my malteser?

Sorry for the delay in replying Lisa – this is a tricky one!

Firstly, dogs can’t fly in the cabin flying into the UK, they can only fly as cargo. Additionally, for dogs travelling to Belfast, ideally they travel first to the rest of the UK or to the Republic of Ireland, otherwise you need to apply for an Import Authorisation (see the final section in http://www.travelnuity.com/taking-a-dog-to-northern-ireland/ ).

One alternative may be to firstly fly to Dublin then take the train to Belfast. The Republic of Ireland doesn’t ban dogs from flying in the cabin, but many airlines still don’t permit it, the same as flying to the UK. I couldn’t find any airlines that clearly specify online they allow dogs in the cabin on flights to Ireland, but I would try talking to KLM – they didn’t mention either way and they’re usually pretty dog-friendly. Once in Dublin, the Irish Rail service from Dublin to Belfast allows small dogs to travel for free.

The final (and slow) option if you want to avoid flying cargo, would be to take the overland route to Belfast. A ferry to England (either the DFDS Ferry from Amsterdam to Newcastle, with dog-friendly cabins, or the Stena Line Ferry from Hook of Holland to Harwich, with kennels), then trains in England (dogs are allowed for free), then a ferry to Northern Ireland (I cover all the ferries in this post: http://www.travelnuity.com/taking-a-dog-to-northern-ireland/ ). Or after taking a ferry to England, Aer Lingus will accept pets within the UK and Ireland as checked baggage, rather than cargo, if you’re happy with this option.

Hope this helps!

Also – don’t forget that your dog will need a worming treatment between 24 hours and 5 days of arriving in the UK/Ireland, recorded in your pet passport.

Thank you, your information is great. We travel a lot between uk and Switzerland and always drive because of our dogs. I see that Swiss air take dogs and I guess this should be ok on the way out. However, this silly uk ruling that does not allow dogs into the uk is rather annoying. Do you know the procedure for getting them back? Do you have to book them on separately as cargo and where would I drop off? Thanks

Susan – To return to the UK with a dog, you would need to book them as cargo. Sometimes this is an internal division of the airline, sometimes it’s a separate cargo company. Check with the actual airline, they should have the details on their pet transport page. Generally this involves dropping them off at a separate freight facility, somewhere else at the airport. Ideally you still have a rental car at this point, as often this is not close to public transport, although Switzerland might be better than other countries. Often you’ll need to drop your pet off about 3 hours before the flight (you’ll be informed the exact time when booking), and there’s a delay of an hour or so before you can pick them up after the flight. Hope this helps!

Hi, I’ve moved from the UK to southern Spain and want to visit my family over Christmas back in the UK and wondered if I could fly with my small dog instead of a 3 day drive through Spain and France and using the ‘chunnell’?

Unfortunately it’s not possible to fly with a dog into the UK unless the dog is in cargo, with the extra costs and hassles that that entails. Returning from the UK, there are a few airlines that allow dogs to fly in the cabin, although not many. And how do you get there in the first place!

One alternative option is to fly to Amsterdam with your dog in the cabin, then take the overnight Stena Line ferry from Hook of Holland to Harwich, which then connects to the UK rail network. The ferry has kennels for dogs, which are accessible during the journey plus you can watch the “security cameras” on a TV channel in your cabin.

I’ve covered more of these options here: http://www.travelnuity.com/travelling-with-a-dog-from-the-uk-to-spain/ . I would have also recommended Brittany Ferries with your car, but they don’t usually operate in November/December.

Hi we flew from LAX to Paris with our small dog in the cabin Then the train to Calais then a U.K. Taxi company brought us to U.K. Very easy

Great to hear Martin! But it would also be great if we could fly directly to the UK, without the extra legs along the way.

How do I get a train to Calais from Paris airport with dog

There are trains from Gare du Nord to Calais, with a change in Lille-Flandres. If you Google the route, there are multiple sites selling tickets. You’ll also need to buy a ticket for your dog at the station.

Thank you for this, it has only made my life more complicated!! lol! We are relocating to Turkey in May, to actually help our friends who have lived there for 16 years to run the cat sanctuary they have set up (Turunc Cats) Our cat is ready to go by May, but finding an airline that flies to Dalaman and allow a cat to fly is proving difficult. Any ideas? Thanks Simon

Simon – Have you also looked at airlines that fly indirectly to Dalaman, such as via Istanbul? I’m not familiar with Dalaman, but I do believe Turkish Airlines and Pegasus allow small pets to fly in the cabin (and larger ones in the hold). The other option is to travel overland to Dalaman from another airport in Turkey.

Hello Simon, We live in both Istanbul and London. We have a small dog, as long as the wight matches the rules you can use Turkish Airlines from UK to any airport in Turkey in cabin. The problem is coming from Turkey to UK.

Hello Cemil,

Have you ever taken your dog to UK from Turkey, and if you’ve done it by plane, I believe they need to travel as hold, how was it from Istanbul to London?

We’ve just gotten a pomeranian that is 5 months old, rabies vaccine done but not blood tested yet, next week, seems like we won’t be taking her to Turkey for summer holidays if our option coming back to te UK is as cargo and expensive. Such a hussle!

willow-Im looking to see i can bring my tortoise with me to china? via KLM?

Airlines vary in their rules for whether they allow other breeds of animals to fly, other than cats and dogs, especially in their cabins. Unfortunately, looking at the KLM pet policy, https://www.klm.com/travel/us_en/prepare_for_travel/travel_planning/pets/index.htm , I cannot see any mention of allowing animals other than cats and dogs. You can also contact the airline directly to double check. They may perhaps transport tortoises as cargo, instead.

Hi, I understand that the regulation is to not allow pets into the UK in the cabin, but what about flying from the UK to the EU? Any advice on how to travel with my pet rabbit from Manchester to Vienna? We are relocating and therefore the rabbit needs to come with us. I’m really struggling to find a way to do it. Thanks!!

Some non-UK airlines will fly pets in the cabin when leaving the UK. For instance, when checking the pet policy for Austrian Airlines, https://www.austrian.com/Info/Flying/TransportationAnimals.aspx?sc_lang=en&cc=US , they only mention not flying pets in the cabin on the way into the UK. However, they don’t mention allowing rabbits. I would contact them directly to double check their rules in this case, especially with the current situation. There are some European airlines that should do this, but I don’t know which ones and a stopover might be necessary. The other alternative is flying your rabbit in cargo, but I know I always try to find a in-cabin option first.

Hello, I am relocating to the UK and looking for options how I can bring my chug (pug/chiwawa) to the UK. The problem is that due to her breathing difficulties she cannot travel in the hold of the plane so I am looking for any possible alternatives.

Check out my post on all the transport options to the UK. I recommend flying to Paris or Amsterdam, then taking a ferry or taxi across.

Thank you for this post. It is super helpful and equally frustrating. It makes zero sense to not allow small animals on board especially for short flights….and especially with Brexit. My husband and I are wanting to buy a house in Italy and would need to take our cat…with the new visa restrictions that may make it impossible if we have to return for a specific amount of time to UK throughout the year. 🙁 Are there any government petitions or actions in play to get this stupid restriction changed? I would definitely sign up for that fight. I refuse to traumatize my pet in cargo or being shipped with a pet shipper.

I haven’t heard of any plans to have this changed. A while ago there was a petition to change the rules on the Eurostar (that doesn’t allow pets onboard), but that ended up going nowhere. I’m not hopeful of any changes in the next few years, but maybe in a couple of years time once things settle down…?

What is the reason behind these restrictions in the UK? It makes no sense that so many other countries treat the matter very differently. Exactly with Brexit some people will need to travel a bit more frequently. Brexit on itself it’s already a pain! Makes the case to leave the UK even stronger…

Gabriella – I think it dates back to when the UK has stricter rules for importing pets, requiring quarantine, so people were less likely to fly with their pets. Although I also think there’s a cultural element. I live in Australia, and both Australia and New Zealand have similar prohibitions. It would be great for this to change!

IWe plan to move to Cyprus to live within the next 12 months. We need to get our 62kg Bullmastiff over there. Its my one big concern. I have looked into traveling with a Transport company through Europe by road, but dont seem to be able to get from Italy to Cyprus. Or anywhere else in Europe to Cyprus by boat.There is a freight carrier that does take some passangers but not animals I am stuck for any other way, other than fly. He will have to go Cargo due to his size. I have looked at Cruises etc. Any suggestions anyone, would be great. Thanks. We have had various flight prices of £1800, £2000 and £3600.

Lynn – I’ve looked into the ferry situation for Cyprus. I’ve been able to track down a ferry that operates between Turkey and Northern Cyprus. This is their FAQ page confirming they accept pets: (REMOVED BROKEN LINK) (scroll down). They’ve included links about the rules for pets travelling to both Northern Cyprus and Turkey. (On this second ticketing page, https://www.akgunlerbilet.com/online_bilet.php?lang=en , they mention no tickets required for pets, they just need to stay in their cage, and there’s no pet-friendly cabins.)

I’ve also written a post about travelling to Turkey with a pet ( http://www.travelnuity.com/dog-friendly-turkey/ ). The rules are quite variable (and often not enforced), but I strongly recommend getting a rabies titre test for your dog beforehand.

The problem though is that it’s illegal for humans to enter Cyprus via Northern Cyprus (see: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cyprus/safety-and-security ), and you can be refused entry and/or fined. The same rules are very unlikely to apply to dogs. I would speak to a pet transport company about whether it’s feasible for them to transport your dog to Northern Cyprus (or at least Turkey), then cross over from Cyprus to be reunited with your dog and bring it back across the border.

Hi I have a small/medium weshi aprox 8.5 kg , all my family live in Canada, how can I fly with our dog, we have our son in a wheelchair and is ours sons and daughter dog, how can we take our dog with us, can he be classified as emotional support dog and if so how do we get certificate to fly with us and which airlines as when I checked most fly with pets, but as I am reading you say we r not allowed, any flights internationally any suggestions as it’s Quebec close to the united states borders of New York or Maine, thanks

Franca – I’m assuming you live in the UK. I believe Air Canada fly dogs in the cabin on flights leaving the UK, but you’ll need to check the maximum size of dogs in the cabin. Alternatively, pets can fly in the hold. For returning to the UK, pets generally need to fly as cargo. For a dog to travel as an emotional support dog, you need a letter from a doctor, which is usually only a USA thing. Even still, most (if not all) UK airlines don’t recognise emotional support dogs. If you still have questions, I recommend heading to my FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dogfriendlytravelrtw .

https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/560549

Sign the Petition and get others to sign too!

Hi. Im traveling from a non-Eu country Albania toManchester int airport this Sunday , with Lufthansa airline,and I was wondering how can I take my 10kg dog to travel with me as an excess baggage in the hold. That because we dont have cargo hold agencies near our country

Sorry, but I believe only cargo is possible to travel to the UK. I recommend contacting Lufthansa to find out your options.

Hi, I relocated from the UK to Germany last year and my cat is still living in the UK with my dad. My husband and I really want to fly her out to Germany to be with us and I read online that Lufthansa allow you to travel with cats in the cabin. Do you know if this applies when leaving the UK and how to book this? She has a passport and will have had all her jabs etc.

It should be possible to do this leaving the UK (but not the reverse direction). Lufthansa say to call their service centre, see this page with information: https://www.lufthansa.com/be/en/reisen-mit-tieren

Hi so im moving from the UK to the US. Is there any way I can get my pet rabbit there with me in cabin. Direct or indirect. Im happy to take him on Eurostar or on a ferry to Dublin but there is nowhere that is clear on how I do this.

Many thanks

Sorry, I’m not as clear about options for flying with a rabbit, rather than a dog. Some airlines allow dogs in the cabin on flights leaving the UK, but there’s hardly any (maybe check with KLM and Lufthansa). The Eurostar doesn’t allow pets at all, but I cover some ferries to get to France or Netherlands in this post: https://www.travelnuity.com/dog-travel-between-uk-europe/

Hi! Thank you for such a useful website! I am relocating back to the UK in March, travelling from Chile. I haven’t been able to find an airline that will take my cat in the hold as luggage to get into the UK. Shipping him via cargo costs as least $4,000. Would an option be to fly to somewhere like Paris and then travel via train perhaps? Thank you!

Yes, I highly recommend this as an alternative. Unfortunately the Eurostar train also doesn’t allow pets on board, but there are a couple of pet-friendly ferries that take foot passengers with pets, or the option to take a taxi on the Eurotunnel. I cover this here: https://www.travelnuity.com/dog-travel-between-uk-europe/

We have brought a puppy from Portugal 3mths old got everything we need from the breeder to get out of Portugal. The only thing we struggling with is which airline to contact/book to get her back to the uk at Heathrow in the cargo area.

British Airways is one of the options that flies pets as cargo into Heathrow. TAP probably also does.

Alternatively, contact a pet transport company in Portugal who can organise it for you. They might also offer the option of road transport to the UK, some in Spain do. Perhaps ask the breeder?

Hi I have a guide dog and three cats. Would I be able to travel from the UK to Aberdeen with them?

Your guide dog will be able to fly in the cabin, you’ll need to supply the paperwork requested by your airline. With your three cats, they would need to fly in the hold, either as cargo or checked baggage, depending on the airline.

Hi there, thank you very much for this useful post. I am planning to fly with my small dog from Newcastle to Frankfurt (Lufthansa) and come back with the ferry. I’ve confirmed my pet ticket with Lufthansa but I am a bit anxious about just arriving at Newcastle airport without any further confirmation from the airport (it is impossible to contact them). Do you know of anyone that has flown out of Newcastle, is it definitely allowed from that airport? Thank you in advance.

Sorry, but I haven’t personally flown out of Newcastle, and I only know of people who’ve flown out of London airports with their dogs. Have you tried this contact options? https://www.newcastleairport.com/contact/contact-information/ If you cannot contact them, I recommend asking Lufthansa for confirmation and asking for any special preparation for flying with a dog. At a minimum, keep your dog in their carrier at all times in the airport.

Hi Jonathan! I came across your comment and was wondering did your travel went as planned and there was no issues with Lufthansa/ taking your pet into a cabin? I’m in a similar situation- planning of flying Lufthansa from London LHR to Frankfurt (Lufthansa confirmed several times pets are allowed into cabin if they are up to 8kg including carrier, but LHR airport does not provide any clarity re flying with dogs in cabin..).

Also Shandos many thanks for a great post!

Hi, I will fly from JFK(New York) to DLM Airport. (Dalaman, MUGLA, TURKEY) And I have pet (Chihuahua/ 8 pounds) I wanna bring him with me. The flight is JFK to LHR and than LHR to DLM. The flight from JFK to LHR operating by American Airlines. I checked with American airlines, they said, they are allowing pets in cabin with some fee($125). But, can I fly from LHR to DLM with British Airways operated flight and with my dog?? And than I will fly back from DLM to EWR(Newark) via from LHR.

Unfortunately, I don’t think this is possible via LHR. Dogs are not allowed in the cabin on flights into LHR, including transits. Did you check this specific flight with AA? Meanwhile, British Airways doesn’t allow pets in the cabin. It’s better to fly direct or via an airport on the continent.

Hi Shandos How can I fly with my miniature Shih tzu to Rhodes from Manchester ? And the how would I get her home ? Going for 8 weeks in the winter Many Thanks Jilly .

I recommend contacting Aegean Airlines to see if they allow dogs in the cabin on flights out of the UK to Greece. I’m not sure however if they would fly out of Manchester, plus it’s worthwhile checking with the airport to see if dogs are allowed in the terminal. As it won’t be possible to take a domestic flight to one of the London airports, instead consider taking the train.

When it comes to returning to the UK, Aegean Airlines like other airlines doesn’t allow dogs in the cabin, only as cargo, and only to Heathrow. Instead, I recommend flying to Amsterdam and taking a ferry across. Or fly to Paris and then get a taxi across the Channel. From there, it’s possible to get to Manchester by train.

It’s such a hassle that these alternatives are required! Hope you enjoy your winter stay in Greece.

Hi Shandos We are going to stay in Greece (Poros)next year for 2 months (April/May). We intend to take our labrador and drive from Edinburgh (Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry), taking a week to get there and a week to get back. My concern is transiting through non-EU countries (Bosnia, Montenegro, Albania, Serbia and North Macedonia). I know I have to have her treated for tapeworm before we come back to the UK but will that also apply on the transit route when leaving the EU and then re-entering at Greece and then vice versa on our return. Other options would be to come down through Italy and get ferry to Greece or take the long way round by road through Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria. Do you know of anyone who has experienced this type of journey?

Many thanks Alastair

If you end up taking the driving route through these countries, make sure you have a rabies titre test done first, before leaving. A rabies titre test is required to re-enter the EU from Albania, Montenegro, Serbia.

There are also requirements to enter some of these countries, but they can be hard to track down. I know a few people who have taken this route, that have said papers for pets are often not checked, and travelling with a pet passport and rabies titre test result is sufficient.

One person I recommend contacting is Jackie from https://worldwidewalkies.blog/ , who recently visited Albania.

Hi Shandos,

We’re looking to travel from the UAE to the UK during the summer and would like to bring our miniature schnauzer. I think I can fly with her in the cabin on Etihad if I purchase an extra seat. Just wondering which you think would be the best option to get her into the UK? im wondering if i should fly Amsterdam and get a connecting ferry, or France and travel on the EuroStar or if there even a viable option to get her direct to the UK? In addition, are you aware if i can fly direct out of the UK with her in the cabin on Etihad or if i will have to travel back to a neighboring country to have her in the cabin.

many thanks Luke

Amsterdam and the ferry is an option, as is Paris and then the train and ferry, or else a taxi. Unfortunately dogs are not allowed on the Eurostar. Check out: https://www.travelnuity.com/dog-travel-between-uk-europe/ The best option partially depends on where you are heading in the UK. Unfortunately, I’m pretty sure that Etihad doesn’t allow dogs in the cabin leaving the UK.

This whole blog makes me feel very anxious about travelling by air. I am allergic to cats and dogs and I manage this by avoiding them or leaving an environment where they are present. Medication makes me drowsy. What ever do I do if I arrive on my plane and there is a dog or cat?

I’m very sorry to hear this Julia. As it is, not all airlines allow pets to fly in the cabin (although service animals are allowed). You could stick to airlines that don’t allow pets in the cabin, such as British Airways. Alternatively, speak to the airline call centre and let them know of your allergy in advance. Different airlines have different procedures, but at a minimum they can ensure you are not seated near any dogs or cats.

thank you, your website has been really useful in trying to get a dog back from France to the UK – basically the options are limited! Your links have also been very helpful.

Glad that I could help Deborah, I wish it was easier!

Hi there, Just want to say I appreciate this post so much. I’m looking to emigrate from the UK to Dubai. I’m terrified of putting my two dogs (5 month old retriever and 27kg Labrador) in Cargo. Is there anyway I can get them there with me as much as possible in cabin/other modes of transport?

There are a number of chartered flights that fly pets in the cabin. K9 Jets and Sky Pets are two companies that have recently organised flights. There are also transport companies in Europe that transport pets by road, but I doubt that there are any road transport options all the way to Dubai.

Thank you for this! I booked my flight successfully for my toy poodle to travel with me in cabin from Heathrow to Toronto with Air Canada. When I arrive at the airport, can the dog clear custom in the same way as me? I read somewhere that Heathrow have a no-pet policy, making all animals go through the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre. Thank you!

Animals arriving at Heathrow have to go through the Animal Reception Centre, but I’m pretty sure this doesn’t apply when departing from Heathrow. However, keep your dog in a carrier bag when inside the airport.

I would like to take small dog lasa apso from Edinburgh to Bournemouth is it possible to have her in cabin the flight is about 13\4 hour can any body help me

Unfortunately there isn’t the option to fly with a dog in the cabin on domestic flight sin the UK. The best alternatives are to drive or to take the train, which is dog-friendly.

Hi, I would like to bring a small chihuahua from Slovakia to the UK. He can’t stay in a cargo underneath the plane. What options do I have? Alternatively what airlines or which airports I can go to? Thank you

I recommend one of two options: either travelling overland by road/train/ferry to the UK. Or flying to Paris or Amsterdam, then taking the train and a ferry that allows foot passengers to bring pets to the UK. For more details, see: https://www.travelnuity.com/dog-travel-between-uk-europe/ Unfortunately there are no airlines/airports where it is allowed to fly dogs in the cabin into the UK.

We can try to change this. There is a petition to change this rule and allow pets to travel with their owners (with all papers and vaccinations in order) in aircraft cabins instead of in the hold with luggage. The deadline is 9 May 2024. https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/650194#:~:text=Petition%20Let%20airlines%20allow%20pets,in%20the%20hold%20with%20luggage .

Thanks for sharing! It would be great if this can be changed.

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10 Most Pet-Friendly Airlines in the UK (2024 Update)

Traveling with your pet shouldn’t be a stressful experience. Unfortunately, many airlines today don’t make it easy for passengers to fly with their furry friends. Fortunately, there are several major airlines in the UK that allow you to bring your pet on board.

In this article, we’ll be discussing the 10 most pet-friendly airlines in the UK and what policies they have when it comes to traveling with pets. From British Airways to American Airlines, these airlines provide the best in customer service and pet-friendly travel policies. Keep reading to find out more!

• A Quick Look at the Best Pet-Friendly Airlines (2024 Update)

The 10 Most Pet-Friendly Airlines

• 1. British Airways

British Airways is one of the leading pet-friendly airlines in the UK, offering a range of services and facilities for passengers traveling with their furry friends. Pets are allowed to fly in cargo and baggage holds but must be accompanied by an approved pet passport.

Pet owners should also ensure that their pet is in a suitable travel crate and are required to pay excess baggage fees. So while you can’t have any pets in the cabin (unless it’s a service dog), pets can be transported in the aircraft’s hold with British Airways.

• Service dogs allowed in cabin at no charge
• Excellent customer service
• Lots of pets accepted
• No standard pets in cabin
• 2. Emirates

Emirates is a great choice for pet owners who want to travel with their furry friends. Pets are allowed to travel in the aircraft’s cargo hold and must be accompanied by an approved pet passport.

The airline also offers special services for pet owners, such as pre-flight check-in and post-arrival assistance. Pets must be in a suitable travel crate in order to fly with Emirates and pet owners should also make sure to pay the excess baggage fees.

• Unique pets allowed
• Friendly customer service
• Expensive to fly pet
• 3. Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand is another pet-friendly airline offering a range of services and facilities for passengers traveling with furry friends. Pets are allowed in the cargo and baggage holds. The only exception for pets being in the cabin is if it’s a service dog.

Pet owners should ensure that their pet is in an approved travel crate and should pay excess baggage fees. Fortunately, Air New Zealand’s rates are affordable and reasonable, making it a great option for pet-loving passengers looking to travel with their pets.

• Affordable excess baggage fees
• Service animals allowed in cabin
• No pets in cabin (except service animals)
• 4. Lufthansa

Lufthansa is well known for its pet-friendly services and facilities, offering an array of options for passengers traveling with their furry friends. You have the option to either place your pet in cargo or in the cabin.

If you choose to place your pet in the cabin, however, it must not weigh more than 17 pounds; otherwise, it will need to be placed in the cargo hold.

Pet owners should make sure that their pet is in an approved travel crate and may also be required to pay excess baggage fees.

• Pets can fly in cabin and cargo
• Reasonable excess baggage fees
• Heavier pets must go in cargo hold

If you want to fly with a pet-friendly airline, you should definitely check out KLM. This Dutch airline is one of the top pet-friendly airlines in the UK for 2023, and for good reason.

They offer a wide variety of services to ensure that your furry travel companion has a comfortable journey. Whether you’re traveling with your dog or cat, KLM can accommodate them—while also ensuring their safety and security.

What’s more, you may have your pet with you in the cabin (limit 1), but there is a caveat—it must fit in a 46 x 28 x 24 cm carrier, as it will have to fit underneath your seat while flying. Other than that, you can count on KLM to take excellent care of you and your pet.

• Ideal for single-pet owners
• Allows pets in the cabin (with restrictions)
• Carrier size requirement restricts some pets from traveling
• 6. South African Airways

South African Airways is a great choice if you’re flying with your service dog or cat. This pet-friendly airline ensures that you and your furry travel companion have a safe and comfortable journey—all for an affordable price. And as long as your cat or dog can comfortably fit in a carrier, it can fly in cargo.

So while riding in the cabin isn’t permitted, the low cost of flying your cat or dog in the cargo hold makes South African Airways a great option for pet owners who want to stay within budget.

• Low price for pets traveling in cargo
• Ideal for service animals
• No cabin travel allowed

United is another great pet-friendly airline in the UK for 2023. This American carrier offers a few options when it comes to flying with your four-legged friend. You can either bring them in the cabin (up to 2 pets) or check them as baggage in the cargo hold.

However, please note that certain breeds and sizes of cats and dogs are restricted from flying in the cabin, so make sure to check the United website before booking.

The fee to fly your pet in the cabin is reasonable when compared to other airlines, and United also has a great pet transport service that can help you with the process.

• Flexible pet travel options
• Reasonable fee for cabin travel
• Certain breeds/sizes not allowed in cabin
• 8. American Airlines

If you wish to fly with your cat or dog with you in the cabin, American Airlines is a good choice. This US-based carrier allows one pet per passenger, although they have to be small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you.

American Airlines also offers a great pet travel service that can help with all the details of flying with your furry friend. They even provide assistance with vaccinations and health certificates for international flights.

American Airlines’ fee is on par with other airlines for cabin travel, and the experience is bound to be comfortable for your pet.

• Allows one pet in the cabin
• Great pet transport service
• Restricted size/weight for cabin pets
• 9. Air Canada

Air Canada is yet another top pet-friendly airline in the UK for 2023. This Canadian carrier allows you to bring one cat or dog with you in the cabin as long as they fit comfortably in a carrier (maximum size of 27 x 40 x 55 cm). And if your pet doesn’t meet that criterion, then it can travel in the cargo hold.

The fee to fly your pet in the cabin is fairly reasonable, and the airline also has a wide range of services to ensure that your furry friend has a safe journey.

• Perfect for owners with one small cat or dog
• Not all pets can fly in cabin due to size
• 10. Kenya Airways

Kenya Airways makes the list because it allows you to book your pet in cargo. And if you require a service dog or emotional support dog, it can fly free of charge. It’s also allowed to be with you in the cabin.

For all other pet owners, however, the fee to fly your pet in cargo is quite high. But if you can afford it, Kenya Airways offers a great experience for you and your furry travel companion—complete with in-flight entertainment, comfortable seating, and delicious meals.

• Great service for service animals
• Cargo transport available
• Pricey to fly pets in cargo hold
• Flying Safely With Your Pets

If you’re flying with an emotional support or service dog , it’s important to make sure that your pet is comfortable and secure during the flight. Most reputable airlines will require you to provide documentation that certifies your animal is fit for air travel before boarding a plane with it.

It’s also important to note that some countries have additional entry requirements for pets, so it’s a good idea to check these requirements in advance.

When it comes to flying with your beloved pet, the UK offers a range of pet-friendly airlines. It’s important to check all applicable fees and restrictions before booking your flight to ensure that your pet is able to travel with you safely and comfortably. With careful planning, you can find the airline that best meets the needs of both you and your pet.

• 5 Most Pet-Friendly Airlines In Canada
• 3 Most Pet-Friendly Airlines in Australia

Featured Image Credit: Svitlana Hulko, Shutterstock

Nicole Cosgrove

Lead Pet Expert & Pet-ditor in Chief

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Pet travel: airlines and airports you can use

Updated 24 May 2024

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pet-travel-approved-air-sea-rail-and-charter-routes-for-the-movement-of-pets/approved-air-routes-for-pet-travel

We update these lists when we are told of changes. You should check with your travel company if you want to make sure they are still approved.

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These airlines transport pets in the hold of the plane.

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We’ve been transporting pets of all shapes and sizes since the 1950s as the cargo handling arm of British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL. With our support and expertise, we’ll make sure your pets are comfortably transported to wherever your travels take you.

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Preparing your pet for travel

The worldwide standard for animal air travel is IATA’s Live Animal Regulation. You can read more about this  here . You may also find some useful information from IATA on the  Traveler’s Pet Corner  page about preparing your pet for travel.

We work with specialist pet travel agents around the world to ensure the highest level of care for your pet. Just like a travel agent, they will help you make a booking and prepare your pet for travel.

Flying your pet from the UK?

We have partnered with Pet Air UK to take care of all pets that are departing from the UK. The expert team at Pet Air UK can assist with quotations and export bookings.

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Flying your pet from a different country (Not the UK)?

For all other pets flying from countries outside the UK, simply click the link below and fill out the Pets form. We will share your details and put you in touch with our trusted pet travel partners who can assist you and provide a quotation.

Prior to your journey you should give your pet only a light meal and the opportunity to urinate and defecate before it’s placed in its container.

During the flight your pet will be stored in the aircraft's hold, where it will be safe and secure in a temperature-controlled environment. The hold is unlit as our experience shows that pets quickly settle down and travel better in the dark.

Provided that your pet complies with the pre-entry requirements, there should be no difficulties when it comes to re-entry. However, it is also advisable to have your vet check that the microchip is readable, as sometimes these migrate around the body.

For information on travelling with guide dogs or assistance dogs check the airline policy: British Airways , Iberia , Aer Lingus , Vueling , LEVEL .

Some dangerous dog breeds and snub nosed breeds of cats and dogs may not be accepted, please fill in the enquiry form above and your pet travel agent will advise.

Read the full guidelines for dog containers here .

Minimum requirement for cats departing from the USA and Canada only, is a 200 kennel (200 series kennel = L27" x W20" x H19", L68cm x W50cm x H48cm).

For all other countries, series 100 kennels are acceptable.

Minimum requirement for snub-nosed dogs and cats is a 10% larger container than the minimum.

The container must be strong enough to protect your pet during transport, be secure enough to contain it and have sufficient ventilation on all four sides, to ensure the air quality in the container will not deteriorate.

The door must be secured in such a manner that it will not open accidentally or your pet cannot open it during handling and transport.

Your pet's nose and paws should not be able to fit through any ventilation opening or door mesh.

The container must have a water pot accessible from the outside.

The water pot must be secured and in proportion to the size of the pet but not take up too much of the floor space.

Fibreboard, wire mesh and wicker containers are not suitable for air transportation.

These dimensions are the minimum internal dimensions, please allow extra room if you are placing a blanket or bedding into the kennel. Pets must be able to stand and sit erect without touching the top of the kennel and turn around comfortably.

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10 Tips for travelling with your pet

Want to learn more about pet travel and what steps you need to take before flying, read through our top 10 tips for travelling with your pet.

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British Airways Pet Travel Partners

PBS Pet Travel are proud to be partners of British Airways (BA) helping to ship pets all over the world.

BA is one of the most frequently used airlines to carry pets out of the UK and is the sister company of IAG Cargo.

Their motto:

“Whether you want to move an engine or a bearded dragon, from Delhi to Dublin or New York to Nice, we’re here 365 days a year to get that done.”

So, if you need help with pet travel , there’s no one that can do it better.

BA uses the animal reception centre at Gatwick where your pet will only ever be handled by animal specialists. At Heathrow, there’s a dedicated check-in area your pet where they will be security screened and then have their own quiet space away from the noise and bustle of the busy cargo warehouse. They will be delivered directly to the aircraft by British Airways staff.

BA will happily transport most dog breeds but will not carry Bulldogs, Pugs or Pekingese. Flatter-faced breeds such as, Bullmastiffs, Boxers, Boston Terriers and Shih Tzus, must travel in a kennel 10% larger than what would be normal for their size to increase ventilation.

BA also carries cats like Persians, Himalayans and Exotics using these bigger crate rulings.

If you’re bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret to the UK, via BA you must comply with the Pet Travel Scheme. You will be asked to sign a Form of Indemnity to cover British Airways against any costs arising from your pet not passing the checks on arrival and having to go into quarantine.

British Airways Pet Policy

BA have a pet policy called “OK to forward”. Before transporting any pet, they want to speak to the consignee (the person receiving the pets) to ensure that they will be at the airport to collect the pet. If this contact is not made BA will not allow the pet to fly. All pets will need this “OK to forward before being allowed to leave the UK.

Arranging travel for your beloved pet can be confusing and stressful but PBS Pet Travel are here to guide you every step of the way. For more information on transporting your pet with British Airways, please get in touch .

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British Airways launches new flight route to the ‘cheaper alternative’ to Lapland this winter

• Hope Brotherton , Travel Reporter
• Published : 9:51, 24 May 2024
• Updated : 9:51, 24 May 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

BRITISH Airways is launching a brand-new direct service to a "cheaper alternative" to Lapland.

The UK flag carrier will launch its first-ever flight to a magical Norwegian town later this year.

The new direct service will operate between London Heathrow and Tromsø, Norway from December 1, 2024.

Twice-weekly services will operate every Thursday and Sunday until March 27, 2025.

Outbound flights will leave London Heathrow at 8.15am before arriving in Tromsø at 12.05pm local time.

Return flights from Norway will depart at 1.40pm, touching down in the UK at 4.05pm.

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Tickets are already on sale for the seasonal service, with return fares starting from £153 per person.

Neil Chernoff, British Airways ’ Chief Planning and Strategy Officer, said: "Those who missed the northern lights in the UK need not worry!

"We are excited to welcome Tromsø to our route network – it is a growing winter leisure market thanks to its abundance of cold-weather activities and we’ll be the only premium carrier operating there from the UK.

"We’ve optimised the schedule for three- and four-night trips, which we know are perfect for a destination like this."

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When the new route launches later this year, Tromsø will become the airline's northernmost destination.

Operating throughout the winter, there is no shortage of wintery delights for families to sample during a yuletide visit.

What is there to do in Tromsø?

Located quite a bit further north than  Finnish Lapland , Tromsø is arguably an even better place to spot the northern lights.

Several  aurora  tours leave from Tromsø, meaning visitors will have plenty of opportunities to go looking for the natural phenomenon.

Other wintery delights include Stortorget, the town’s main square, which plays host to  Christmas markets  during December.

Santa's reindeer can also be visited on a winter safari and can even take you and your family for a sledding trip through the nearby arctic landscapes.

Huskies are also more than happy to take people out for a sledding trip as well, with  northern lights tours  also available with the animals.

They aren't the only animals that can be seen around the town, with whale-watching another popular activity for visitors.

Pods of orcas  and humpbacks can frequently be seen in the waters around the city, particularly between November and February.

Tromsø has been previously described as a budget-friendly alternative to Lapland by  The Times .

They wrote: "A three-night trip to Lapland could easily cost £7,500 for the five of you, so it’s understandable that you balked at the cost.

"Head instead to Tromsø in northern Norway, a winter wonderland 215 miles north of the Arctic Circle , where you can put together an activity-filled trip of husky sledding, snowmobiling and reindeer-feeding."

There are plenty of other new flight routes launching throughout the UK this year.

The latest new routes

British Airways  announced that it would be launching two new flights from a small UK airport this  summer .

The  flights launched from Southampton Airport  over the weekend, with Brits now being able to fly to Bergerac and Majorca.

Budget airline Norse Atlantic Airways is launching  new transatlantic flights from London Gatwick to Las Vegas .

It is the first time the London airport will have flights to the US city.

The airline also confirmed  new routes from London Gatwick to Cape Town  this winter.

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Here are some of the game-changing items we always pack - and some will barely cost you a thing.

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• Ryan Gray, Travel Reporter - Bluetooth eye mask (£16.50)
• Giuli Graziano, Travel Writer - AirTag luggage location tracker (£29.99).

EasyJet has launched new flights  from Glasgow Airport to Larnaca in Cyprus and Enfidha in  Tunisia .

And  new airline Lufthansa City Airlines , launched by German flag carrier Lufthansa, will have flights between Birmingham and Munich from June.

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M&S chairman hits out at British Airways after string of flights cancelled

T he chairman of Marks & Spencer has hit out at British Airways, saying it was “sad to see a great airline deteriorate” after a series of flight issues.

Archie Norman criticised the company in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, claiming his flight had been “cancelled then delayed” for the third time this year. He later deleted his post. 

However, Mr Norman’s assessment is likely to rankle given the M&S chairman’s stature in the business world. The City grandee is renowned for turning around underperforming businesses. He is credited with a revival at Asda while chief executive in the 1990s and is overseeing the current improvement at M&S.

His criticism of BA came as the airline faced disruption on Friday morning caused by bad weather. 

A spokesman for British Airways said: “Like all airlines, due to restrictions imposed by Air Traffic Control at Heathrow Airport as a result of poor visibility, we’ve made some adjustments to our schedule. 

“We’ve apologised to our customers for the disruption to their travel plans and our teams are working to get them to their destinations as quickly as possible.”

Mr Norman is the latest high-profile figure to complain of issues with the airline. 

Last August, Sir Ian Rankin - the award-winning crime writer - claimed he was downgraded from business class to economy on a “once-in-a-lifetime” trip with British Airways. Writing on X, Mr Rankin wrote: “Traveller beware.”

Broadcaster Terry Christian responded to say the incident was a “bad show indeed”, adding: “Airlines aren’t even particularly apologetic about this stuff either in my experience.”

Recent figures showed BA was one of the UK’s worst for delays and cancellations.

Almost 3pc of BA flights were cancelled last year, according to data from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and analysts OAG. By contrast, Ryanair cancelled 0.34pc of flights and easyJet 1.5pc of flights.

British Airways flights had an average delay of 22.3 minutes in 2023, compared to 21.5 minutes for easyJet and 19.8 minutes for Ryanair.

It has sparked growing frustration among flyers. A survey by Which? in February revealed that the airline ranked among the worst for customer satisfaction. 

For long-haul flights, British Airways’ customer satisfaction store was the joint third lowest out of the 17 carriers, only above Air Canada and Lufthansa. For short-haul, it was the fifth lowest, with a satisfaction score of 56pc. 

Rory Boland, editor of magazine Which? Travel, said: “Air fares have soared in recent years, and the bare minimum passengers should expect in return for their hard-earned cash is a reliable service, with friendly, easy to access customer support when they are let down.”

He said passengers at many airlines were “sadly being shortchanged - with high rates of last minute cancellations, abysmal customer service and sneaky extra fees for luggage hiking up the final price”.

At the time British Airways apologised for any disruption customers had faced during challenging periods, saying it always worked hard “to get our customers to where they need to be on time”. 

BA suffered a series of technical issues last year, including an IT outage last May that caused severe travel turmoil during the bank holiday weekend. At the time, the carrier was forced to cancel more than 175 flights.

BA boss Sean Doyle recently claimed the airline was becoming more punctual at its London Heathrow hub, after improvements within the airport. He said 79pc of services were now on time, compared to 60pc a year ago.

British Airways’s owner IAG has predicted a boom in demand this summer. IAG chief Luis Gallego said last week: “Bookings are good. Demand continues to be strong and we’re well positioned for the summer.”

Play The Telegraph’s brilliant range of Puzzles - and feel brighter every day. Train your brain and boost your mood with PlusWord, the Mini Crossword, the fearsome Killer Sudoku and even the classic Cryptic Crossword.

Flights to Seattle

Discover the dramatic landscapes and big-city charms of Seattle, the Pacific Northwest’s biggest and brightest city. This global tech hub is adored by craft beer and coffee connoisseurs alike, but there’s a wealth of treasures lying in wait in this lush green corner of the USA.

Our cheapest flights to Seattle

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Washington State's emerald city

Fly direct from London to Seattle with British Airways to begin your Washington State adventure. 

The city’s diverse neighbourhoods are compact and walkable, so you can cover plenty of ground in a day. Start your morning the Seattle way, with freshly brewed coffee, then hop on the Seattle Centre Monorail, which stops at the Museum of Pop Culture. It’s an unmissable spot for Nirvana fans given the city’s connection to the ‘90s grunge movement.

Then, if the weather’s clear, head round the corner to the Space Needle for unrivalled mountain and city vistas. Once you’re back on earth, go downtown to the world-famous Pike Place Market to shop for eclectic artisanal wares, eat fresh oysters and watch the world go by. Book your  holiday to Seattle  today.

Travel essentials

Flight time, seattle flight faqs.

A flight from London to Seattle takes just under 10 hours.

It's generally cheaper to fly between October and May, outside of the busier summer months. To find the cheapest flights to Seattle, search our  low fare finder .

Most visitors head to Seattle in peak summertime when the weather’s fine and dry, but the hotel prices can be more expensive. You may get better value for money if you travel in spring or autumn – just don’t forget your umbrella.

Although entry prices can add up if you’re visiting the city’s many attractions, Seattle’s proximity to impressive natural wonders means there’s much to enjoy that’s free. There’s no charge to explore the city’s botanical gardens at Washington Park Arboretum, or for picnicking in Carkeek Park’s 220 acres of forest, meadows, wetlands and beaches with priceless views over Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. For sky-high city views with a coffee – and crucially, no entrance fees – head to Starbucks on the 40th floor of the Columbia Center.

Once you land at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, known locally as SeaTac, you’re rewarded with a straightforward journey into the city centre. There are plenty of taxis queueing at the airport, or it’s easy enough to jump onto the Link light rail which reaches downtown Seattle in under 40 minutes. Once you’re in the city, the main attractions are walkable or accessible by the Link light rail, buses or Streetcar trams.

You can also hire a car with British Airways if you want to see more of what Seattle and Washington State has to offer. You’ll receive great benefits, with all mandatory charges included and 24-hour customer support, plus you’ll collect Avios points on every rental.

With lush evergreen forests – the reason it’s named the emerald city – plus picture-perfect peaks, lakes, beaches and a slick cityscape, Seattle’s wholesome good looks are reason enough to make the journey. You’re spoilt for choice with several national and state parks to explore in the wider region, including North Cascades, which is free to visit and home to more than 300 glaciers, and Mount Ranier National Park, where you can hike through the ancient forests and subalpine wildflower meadows.

You can book a hand baggage-only ticket or make the most of our generous baggage allowance. If you choose economy standard or one of our British Airways Holidays’ packages, each passenger can check in a bag weighing up to 23kg – in addition to a handbag, laptop case or other small bag. Families travelling in any cabin with younger children can also check in one car seat and one fully collapsible pushchair. Read more about baggage allowances for children .

If you’re flying in our business cabin, you can check in two bags weighing up to 32kg each. Read our baggage guide for full details.

Citizens of the UK and Ireland and EU passport holders do not need a visa to visit the USA. However, you will need an ESTA, which permits travel to the US for 90 days or less. If you hold a passport from a country or territory outside of the listed areas, you may need to apply for a visa before you travel. You can find out more about visa requirements for all the countries we fly to at the IATA Travel Centre .

Discover outstanding service from the moment you book. Choose to fly with hand baggage only or pick a price that includes a 23kg checked baggage allowance and free seat selection 24 hours before you fly. On board you’ll find HEPA-filtered air, quality on-board catering and a warm, uniquely British welcome.

Simply relax and let us take care of you, every step of the way.

All our cabins offer an excellent – and uniquely British – experience. Choose your perfect way to fly, from economy to First.

Our World Traveller cabin offers all the touches you need to enjoy your flight at an affordable price.

Premium economy

Discover our World Traveller Plus cabin and treat yourself to a wider seat and more legroom in a separate, quieter cabin.

Work or relax in our Club World cabin and enjoy lounge access, a dedicated check-in area and fully flat beds for a restful sleep.

Choose First to enjoy a range of comforts, from fine dining to your own private suite and access to our elegant departure lounges.

Discover more...

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• Flight only prices are updated every 24 hours and are accurate when published. Flights at these prices are limited and may sell out quickly.
• Package holiday prices (flight + hotel or flight + car) prices are updated every 24 to 48 hours and are accurate when published and may vary upon reaching subsequent pages. Availability may be extremely limited particularly during peak periods.
• Return fares displayed are the lowest adult return prices in the cabin specified including taxes, fees and carrier charges, based on a 7-day return journey.
• Each–way fares displayed are the lowest adult each-way prices in the cabin specified based on the lowest adult return prices for a 7 day travel period, including all taxes, fees and carrier charges available in this period.
• One-way fares displayed are the lowest adult prices in the cabin specified including taxes, fees and carrier charges available in this period.
• Package holiday prices (flight + hotel and flight + car) shown are in GBP per person based on 2 adults sharing one room or one car and prices include taxes, fees and carrier charges unless otherwise specified. Flight + car prices based on drivers aged 30-70 years.
• Additional charges will be applied for payments made using a corporate credit card.
• Advertised fares are available on ba.com. Additional charges may apply if purchased through BA outlets or travel agents.
• Combine and save on Holidays: Guaranteed savings are only available when booking a Flight + Hotel or Flight + Car booking including one land product, it does  not apply to a ‘Customise your trip’ holiday including more than one hotel and / or car.
• Package holidays are protected under British Airways Holidays Ltd by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 5985.
• Standard British Airways terms and conditions apply

Singapore Airlines: British man dies in severe turbulence as flight from London Heathrow forced to land in Bangkok

The plane is believed to have hit an air pocket - with images showing debris in the cabin and passengers saying people not wearing seatbelts hit the ceiling.

By Dan Cairns, news reporter

Tuesday 21 May 2024 22:32, UK

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A 73-year-old British man has died from a suspected heart attack after "sudden extreme turbulence" on a London-Singapore flight.

Dozens more have been injured after passengers described people being "launched into the ceiling" and overhead lockers.

Singapore Airlines flight SQ321 from Heathrow was forced to make an emergency landing in Thailand.

The plane left London on Monday night but diverted to Bangkok, landing at 3.45pm local time on Tuesday.

Read more: Images show damage in plane after one killed in turbulence Is flight turbulence getting worse - and what types are there?

Singapore Airlines said the pilot declared a medical emergency and landed in Bangkok after "sudden extreme turbulence over the Irrawaddy Basin at 37,000 feet about 10 hours after departure".

Passenger Dzafran Azmir, 28, described the chaos on board.

"Suddenly the aircraft starts tilting up and there was shaking so I started bracing for what was happening," he said.

"And very suddenly there was a very dramatic drop so everyone seated and not wearing seatbelts was launched immediately into the ceiling."

"Some people hit their heads on the baggage cabins overhead and dented it," he added.

"They hit the places where lights and masks are and broke straight through it."

Briton Andrew Davies told Sky News "anyone who had a seatbelt on isn't injured".

He said the seatbelt sign came on, but there was no time for crew to take their seats.

Mr Davies said "every single cabin crew person I saw was injured in some way or another, maybe with a gash on their head... One had a bad back, and was in obvious pain."

Kittipong Kittikachorn, head of Bangkok airport, told reporters a British man, 73, had died from probable cardiac arrest.

He said it's believed the turbulence hit while people were having breakfast and that an "air pocket" was to blame.

"Seventy-one people needed treatment and six of them had critical injuries," said Bangkok's Smitivej Srinakarin Hospital.

However, Singapore Airlines seemed to contradict those numbers and said only 30 people had been taken to hospital.

In a statement, the UK Foreign Office said it was "in contact with the local authorities".

Forty-seven Britons were among the 211 passengers and 18 crew onboard the plane, a Boeing 777-300ER.

Flight tracking data showed the plane cruising at 37,000ft (11,280m) before dropping 6,000ft (1,830m) in around three minutes.

However, a spokesperson for FlightRadar24 said this appeared to "just be a flight level change in preparation for landing".

Ambulances surrounded the aircraft on the tarmac after landing, with images showing some passengers taken away on stretchers.

Turbulence can hit without warning

Weather producer

There are a few forms of turbulence – where there's a sudden change in airflow and wind speed.

Turbulence can often be associated with storm clouds, which are usually well forecast and monitored, allowing planes to fly around them.

Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT) is much more dangerous as there are no visual signs, such as clouds.

This invisible vertical air movement usually occurs at and above 15,000ft and is mostly linked to the jet stream.

There are clues on where CAT may occur, but generally it can't be detected ahead of time, which means flight crews can be caught unaware with no time to warn passengers and put seat belt signs on.

It's been understood for some time that climate change is increasing turbulence during flights, and the trend is set to worsen according to reports.

"Singapore Airlines offers its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased," it said in a statement.

"We deeply apologise for the traumatic experience that our passengers and crew members suffered on this flight."

It said it was working with Thai authorities and "providing all necessary assistance during this difficult time", including sending a special team to Bangkok.

Read more: Climate change causing more turbulence, say scientists

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Singapore is considered a standard-setter for the aviation industry and consistently tops airline awards.

Turbulence-related injuries are the most common type on passenger planes, according to a study by the US National Transportation Safety Board.

It found it was responsible for more than a third of accidents between 2009 and 2018, but no aircraft damage.

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British Airways first class: a sub-par business class experience

By john walton →.

Since other airlines eclipsed its 1995 introduction of outward-facing herringbone seats over the last quarter-century, however, BA first’s standings among the ranks of aviation’s most luxurious product has fallen. Ten years ago, the joke was that its herringbone seats were the world’s best business class. In the last decade, however, doored mini-suites in business like Qatar Airways’ bespoke Collins Qsuite or ANA’s Safran Fusio-based The Room mean it can’t claim that hard product plaudit.

As a result, I wasn’t expecting the moon when I cashed in some Avios points for BA first class from Newark to London on board a Boeing 787-9. I expected a dated but attractive seat, and was hoping for the best service British Airways can offer, but realistic about that given BA’s ongoing inability to provide consistent service, especially in its premium cabins. All in all, I wanted something that was an elevation above British Airways’ 2019 Club Suite experience .

After a poor experience in the grubby, dated Newark business + first lounge, with non-functional showers and Elemis toiletries replaced by bargain-basement industrial liquid soap, the gate experience was also a disappointment: fifteen minutes of unannounced delay after the flight had been called for boarding, with no queue management. Boarding was first plus business plus frequent flyers (about 2/3 of the plane on the New York route it seemed) and then everyone else.

On arriving at the door, there was little charm, special first class welcome or premium feel as I was perfunctorily shown to my seat. The seat on this 7-year-old 787-9 Dreamliner is an open, doorless outward-facing herringbone, with eight seats in the cabin. 

The look and feel is dark and futuristic, a sort of New-Mini-meets-Tron, with two windows in their own surround. Image: John Walton

Lack of door aside (in a seat installed in 2017), the seat was reasonably spacious if measuring on a business class scale, but so far below standard for first class that I genuinely have no comparator. At the same time, the lack of door, angle of the seats and the futuristic aesthetic meant the seat lacked cosiness and privacy, even compared to the airline’s own five-year-old Club Suite.

The futuristic side-light was cool, but like all the lights around the seat it only had a stark, cold blue-light option, which wasn’t great for an overnight flight. Image: John Walton

Even with my low expectations, I was surprised at the state of the seat’s cleanliness and wear. One of my “ Van Halen Brown M&Ms ” attention-to-detail warning flags in premium classes is seat dressing visibly askew, and in this case that flag was a crumpled antimacassar headrest cover — the sort of thing that an attentive cabin servicing team or crew would straighten and smooth almost automatically.

Any crevice on the seat was just filled with grubbiness. Image: John Walton

The warning flag signalled more: the seat was dirty, worn and its surrounds were banged up. If there was a crevice, it was full of grime. If there was a surface, it was dusty. If there was a high-touch area, it was dented, chipped or scratched. Even areas that could hardly be considered high-touch — the casing around the inflight entertainment screen, for example — were chipped.

The seat was overall in very poor condition. Image: John Walton

The control panel for the seat, cool but not especially intuitive, is a twist-wheel. This panel was so worn that it was unclear what some of the functions were.

Buttons with symbols worn off need to be replaced. Image: John Walton

Apart from the ripped, worn ottoman footrest cover detached on one side, the metallic surround of the seat shrouding was visibly out of line. The mirror had not been cleaned in seemingly quite some time. 

The ottoman cushion was torn on one side and detached entirely on the other. Image: John Walton

It took fifteen minutes for one of the two first class flight attendants to come by in this eight-passenger cabin, offering a pre-departure beverage. This was served in a clunky flute with the thickest stem I’ve ever seen, together with a small tepid towel. I asked for Champagne, but was served a warm glass of the cheap, acidic Hattingly English fizz. I asked and was informed that BA doesn’t serve Champagne on the ground because they would have to pay more duty on it.

Shortly after, a lumpen, misshapen blue amenity kit (co-branded with wedding dress fashion house Temperley, which was odd for a men’s kit — the florals of the women’s version are markedly more attractive) was presented. This was small, and of an unpleasant suede-effect material with a low-quality zip that made it unpleasant to try to extract the overstuffed amount of cosmetic product within. These products were mostly from Elemis, a brand that British Airways has previously used and currently uses in its business class, and which therefore inherently doesn’t feel first class luxurious.

The ugly washbag and tiny hot towel felt very low-rent business class. Image: John Walton

I was next presented with the menu, several pages of which were visibly stuck together with some unidentified substance. This didn’t seem to bother the crew.

It wasn’t quite clear what was sticking the pages of the menu together. Image: John Walton

I’d assess the menu options as acceptable for a lower-tier business class product, the kind that picks a chicken, red meat, fish and veggie option.

The food was pedestrian in menu design, even for business class. Image: John Walton

The three mini-canapés were pedestrian and not especially fresh, and it took 45 minutes for them to arrive with a beverage, and a further five for the wine I’d actually ordered to be served. (The brut and rosé Champagne were made by the same house, a fact that seemed to be very confusing to them when they discovered it.)

Limp, dried out and unloved canapés weren’t a great start to the meal. Image: John Walton

To start I chose the scallop and arancini, which was a single tiny lukewarm scallop positively eclipsed by a large, gluey arancino approximately eight times its size. I’d expect three scallops in even the most basic of British gastro-pubs these days, and I’ve had two large scallops in BA’s business class previously.

A single tiny scallop felt very miserly. Image: John Walton

The main course was presented at about 11pm, about 90 minutes after departure. I ordered the seared lamb loin, but whatever arrived was very much not a seared lamb loin. It appeared to be some sort of minced mutton meatball torpedo, cooked hard, and presented with a greasy, jellied sauce alongside browning snap peas, gummy carrots and green beans. 

I don’t know what to say about this lamb meatball advertised as lamb loin. Image: John Walton

It took another thirty minutes for my dessert — a white chocolate bread pudding that was fine in an industrial pudding sort of way, but by no means anything luxurious or upmarket — to arrive, by which time I was falling asleep into it. 

Stodgy and filling, but no premium feel to the pudding. Image: John Walton

In its entirety, the meal was boring, badly designed and poorly executed, and in comparison sub-par for a modern business class, let alone first. 

One criticism that feels hyper-specific, but at the same time reflective of the wider product design issues: the tableware and flatware. This felt very dated and samey. The beige design on all the plates and dishes is the wavy motif echoed in the feature at the front of the cabin, but as a regular traveller I associate this motif with the Qatar Airways Qsuite rather than British Airways. 

This is a disappointment: table settings and dinner services are a British strength, and the UK produces some of the world’s best. Yet a simple glance through any premium chinaware producer’s website highlights that elegant tableware today isn’t about having a clunky, 1980s-style matchy-matchy set with overuse of a single boring motif. It’s about complimentary pieces that work together to create a cohesively designed whole. Any number of airlines do this far better in business class and even better yet in first.

Needing some rest, I skipped the cheese course at about 11:45pm and I went to change into my pyjamas (in the very standard 787 forward lavatory — nothing especially premium here) while the crew made up my bed. There wasn’t anything special about the bedding: nothing like the Airweave-style cushioned mattresses that Japan Airlines offers in business class, for example, just a duvet and a padded sheet affair. I decided to sleep on top of it all for as much softness in bed mode as possible, and pulled the thin, worn and pilled polyester-feeling lap blanket over me instead of the duvet. None of this felt first class.

Three hours later I woke to a substantial amount of loud talking, clanking and clattering from the galley, which was heading firmly into breakfast mode. Not really able to face another meal so quickly, I spent the rest of the flight with the seat in the Z-bed mode, curled up watching the latest David Attenborough nature documentaries, accompanied by a pleasingly large pot of tea.

Less pleasingly, it was Twinings, a middling supermarket brand that might be acceptable in business class but certainly doesn’t bring any sense of being a first class product from a country where tea is not exactly an unusual choice. Even if something opulent like Fortnum & Mason is beyond the budget, surely something cosy and delightful like Bettys of Harrogate isn’t too much to ask. 

Twinings isn’t a first class tea brand. Image: John Walton

I also had the energising mango smoothie (nice in a “supermarket own brand” sort of quality) and the orange juice (which tasted long-life and from concentrate). At about 3am body time, I didn’t really feel like anything else.

Throughout the flight, service seemed perfunctory, disjointed and on rote. Two crew seemed to be responsible for first class, flitting backwards and forwards with no attempt to engage with passengers or provide a memorable, standout first class service. They seemed unfamiliar with the wine list, and the idea that someone might need a second milk jug for a large pot of tea didn’t strike them. I’ve had several better experiences in Club World over the years, and many in other business classes.

The wine list was strong, but the crew seemed to know nothing about it whatsoever. Image: John Walton

Connectivity on board was provided by Intelsat, and was free for first class passengers. This was slow and not especially responsive, with speed tests maxing out at just over 1Mbps.

Speed tests were a little erratic. Image: John Walton

The inflight entertainment choices, by contrast, were strong, and it was good to see that visually complex options like the Attenborough documentaries were in reasonably high definition.

Picture quality was decent, but the level of chipping and wear around the IFE screen was surprisingly poor. Image: John Walton

The clunky, offbrand headphones, however, were sub-par.

Clunky unbranded headsets are sub-par. Image: John Walton

Of note, at some time between booking and a few days before travel, BA reassigned my seat from the front row window 1K to a front row middle seat on the other side of the aisle, 1E. Realising this while gardening my reservation, I changed to a second row window, 2A.

I would spot on boarding that this move was because a former UK Prime Minister had been allocated my seat, and someone who looked very much like a protection officer the one across the aisle. I don’t begrudge this, but if one of the benefits of booking first class is the ability to select a seat, and there’s a dedicated first class customer service channel, the very least I’d expect would be an email, text message or app notification to give a passenger the courtesy of informing them of this sort of change.

I wanted so much to love British Airways first class, and to revel in this aspirational experience from my youth. In that context, personally and professionally, recalling and reviewing my experiences for this Nose to Tail has been an informative and thought-provoking process. I hesitated to be forthright about my views on the experience lest there be accusations of BA-bashing or snobbery, while the very idea of writing critically about first class #PaxEx can always risk feeling like, quite literally, first class problems. But British Airways takes passengers’ money or miles for this experience, and quite frankly I think the airline should think seriously about what it provided in return: a dirty, beat up old seat with low-quality catering, middling soft product, and an experience that in its entirety lacked any first class flair.

I was disappointed to see the lack of care and attention paid either to the hard product (especially the ill-fitting shrouding) or the soft product of the seat. Image: John Walton

Related Articles:

• Safran’s first Unity: a strong experience in JAL A350 business
• Inside British Airways’ refreshed Heathrow T3 Club Lounge
• Come dine with me at BA’s Heathrow T3 First Class Lounge
• British Airways’ LHR-NCL domestic flight seems hard to justify
• A tale of two classes: British Airways World Traveller and WTP
• Whither first class for British Airways in age of doored mini-suites?

Featured image credited to John Walton

Press Release: Aircraft Interiors Expo AIX 2024, the future of flight

Role model india williams shares her inspiring story.

About John Walton

Deputy Editor John Walton, an international journalist, contributes opinion and analysis to RGN’s Details + Design and Nose To Tail columns. He specializes in cabin interiors, seating, connectivity, and premium class service. A keen analyst of how developing tools can be applied to aviation news, John is at the forefront of social media in the aviation sector, broke the hijacking of... Read More

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Lifestyle | Travel | Ultimate California

Get a fresh view of America's west coast in stunning Monterey County

It’s one of the most beautiful spots along the Pacific Coast Highway, but Monterey County is so much more than just a road trip pitstop.

This Central California region has 99 miles of spectacular coastline, from the soaring, jagged cliffs of Big Sur to curved, white sand beaches. And it’s not just the natural landscapes that are alluring – there are charming spots like the artsy Carmel-by-the-Sea, or the world famous Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Best of all, the journey there is as easy as it is scenic – it’s 100 miles from San Francisco and 240 miles north of Los Angeles, both of which are a British Airways flight away. Here’s why you should start planning a trip...

Explore the Pacific coast

This stretch of California coastline is some of the best you could ask for, with a combination of wide, sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and epic redwoods. If you want to lounge on the sand and play in the surf, Moss Landing and Marina State Beaches are great shouts, and if you’re after epic views then head to Big Sur, where waves smash below soaring, jagged cliffs.

Booking with British Airways and British Airways Holidays

• British Airways is the only UK airline to serve all three gateway airports into California: Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. All flights depart from London Heathrow with a daily flight, or multiple flights per day
• All British Airways Holidays packages are ATOL protected, keeping you and your money safe
• All package bookings include flexible payment options, with deposits from just £75 per person with no balance due until seven weeks before travel for long-haul*
• All British Airways Holidays packages include 23kg baggage allowance included per person, along with a 24-hour dedicated support helpline during your trip
• British Airways Executive Club members can use their Avios for part-payment on holiday packages. For more details, visit ba.com/holidays
• British Airways Holidays offers a range of hotel options to suit all budgets. From budget friendly to 5* luxury, there’s something for everyone
• Partnering with Avis, British Airways Holidays offers fly-drive holidays across the state. When booking flights and car hire together, all mandatory charges are included, and you’ll benefit from roadside assistance and 24-hour customer support
• All hotels and car-hire are committed to British Airways’ high safety standards

*Based on two adults sharing. Full balance due seven weeks before departure. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply

Monterey County is renowned for its epic whale watching – take a boat trip from the marina and you’ll almost certainly see sea otters playing just metres from the shore, but when you get out onto the ocean you could see humpbacks, killer whales or dolphins.

Wine and dine on homegrown produce

The varied landscapes that make Monterey County so beautiful also create micro climates that make for an ideal wine growing region. While Monterey County is the largest grower of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes in the US, the laid back, local vibe makes wine tasting at one of the 60+ tasting rooms in the county a truly authentic experience – just make sure you have a designated driver for the trip.

You can sample the best local varietals in local communities – the relatively small village of Carmel-by-the-Sea has nearly 20 wine tasting rooms, and the more rustic Carmel Valley Village has 10 on one walkable stretch. And wherever you are in Monterey, you won’t be short on excellent food, with everything from steaming clam chowder served in a sourdough bowl to Michelin-starred restaurants cooking up the best local produce and fresh-from-the-sea catches.

Get active in the hills or out on the golf course

There are hundreds of excellent hiking spots in Monterey County, for those who like to take in the scenery at a slower pace.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a gorgeous spot that can only be accessed on foot, with soaring redwood trees and an 80-foot waterfall that cascades onto the crescent bay below. You can also go sea kayaking at Cannery Row – main image – (fans of the Monterey author John Steinbeck will recognise the name), tee off at world class golf courses like the legendary Pebble Beach Golf Links, or try your hand at scuba diving – Monterey is considered one of the best diving sites around.

You don’t need to limit your activity to the shore, either – you can go horse riding in the mountains or hit up the numerous biking trails. 

More to see in Monterey County

Where to stay: Monterey County

Intercontinental The Clement Monterey

This sleekly modern spot offers oceanfront rooms with balconies and captivating views, while also being located on the historic street Cannery Row and its many shops, restaurants and attractions.

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

Nestled in 22 acres of Monterey Pines, the Hyatt Regency Monterey provides the quintessential Monterey experience in close proximity to downtown Monterey and easy access to the Peninsulas top attractions.

Monterey Marriott

The spacious rooms of this stylish, modern hotel offer sweeping views over Monterey Bay while the resort also offers a 24-hour gym and close proximity to golf courses and designer shops.

To book your holiday to Monterey County, please visit ba.com/california