There was a time when bringing a pet on a trip meant arranging care back home. You had no choice but to rely on friends, family, or paid sitters and hope everything would go smoothly. But ever since airlines changed their approach and opened their cabins to animals, traveling has become more inclusive for many people. You no longer have to leave them behind or worry about how they are doing while you are away.
On that note, a recent review by the dog care organization Years examined how airlines manage this change, focusing on the access, safety, and convenience of pets and their parents.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
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Strong coordination defines the experience at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and that begins before you even finalize your ticket. All you need to do is call the company directly to arrange your pet’s travel, which allows staff to review the details and assign either a cabin or cargo option based on the size.
Lufthansa
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If your animals are familiar with each other, Lufthansa grants you permission to place two small pets in a single carrier. This reflects how it aims to reduce stress on animals during travel. They are also allowed to stay in the cabin under set weight limits, while larger ones travel in temperature-controlled cargo areas.
Air France
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When flying with Air France, the pricing structure is fairly straightforward, which makes trip planning with a pet easier. Fees are set based on travel distance, though certain seating classes do not allow pets in the cabin. The airline also outlines requirements such as vaccinations and microchipping ahead of time, so there are fewer surprises before departure.
Vueling
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Lower fares do not always mean fewer options, and Vueling shows how basic policies can still work well. The company follows standard cabin rules, including carrier placement and weight limits, and requires pets to stay in carriers under the seat throughout the flight. It also focuses on short European routes, which can make travel time easier to manage with your pet by your side.
Aegean Airlines
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Aegean Airlines is known for attentive service, and that carries through when traveling with a pet. Staff tend to communicate clearly at check-in and boarding, which helps avoid last-minute confusion. Small pets are allowed in the cabin as long as they meet standard guidelines. That level of coordination makes the process feel more manageable, especially on a first trip with an animal.
Iberia
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Early booking is required for those traveling with pets on Iberia, as the airline limits the number of animals per flight. Iberia outlines its requirements clearly, including documentation and carrier standards. This simple approach can reduce unexpected issues at the airport.
Air Canada
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One of the advantages of flying with Air Canada is how it manages connections on longer routes, especially when a pet is part of the trip. Its network supports smoother transfers through major hubs, with coordinated handling and fewer terminal changes. Fees vary by route, with North American flights usually around $50 to $59, and international routes closer to $100 to $118.
Turkish Airlines
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What most people don’t know is that Turkish Airlines allows more than just cats and dogs on certain flights. Small birds are allowed to be with you in the cabin, but only if they meet specific conditions, which is less common among major carriers. The airline also permits multiple pets in one carrier if they are comfortable together.
Qatar Airways
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Long-haul trips require stable conditions, and Qatar Airways builds its policies around that idea. The management emphasizes safety standards that align with international regulations. Travelers receive detailed instructions for documentation and preparation, which helps avoid delays at checkpoints. Small pets can travel under clear guidelines that prioritize comfort during extended flights.
Delta Air Lines
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People who are moving within the United States on Delta Air Lines flights are allowed to bring dogs, cats, and even household birds in the cabin, as long as they meet the airline’s requirements. Pets must stay inside carriers placed below the seat for the entire flight. Space is limited, so early reservations are important. Fees depend on the route, usually ranging between $75 and $200.
