+1 (323) 800 6001Air India Airlines Pet Travel
Air India Airlines pet policy
Air India pet policy, updated as of 31 January 2025, allows pets to travel both in the cabin and as checked baggage (cargo hold), depending on their size and the type of aircraft. Below are the details of the policy:
- Pets Allowed in the Cabin
- Eligible Pets:Small pets like dogs, cats, and birds can travel in the cabin on both domestic and international flights.
- Size Restrictions: The combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 7 kg (15 lbs). Pets must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
- Carrier Requirements:The pet must be in a well-ventilated, leak-proof carrier. The carrier
dimensions should not exceed the following:
- Length: 46 cm (18 inches)
- Width: 28 cm (11 inches)
- Height: 24 cm (9.5 inches)
- Pet Fee:The pet fee varies by route and is typically paid at the time of booking or check-in.
- Pets as Checked Baggage (Cargo Hold)
- Eligibility: Pets too large to travel in the cabin (over 7 kg) can be transported as checked baggage in the cargo hold.
- Size and Weight: The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs).
- Carrier Requirements: Pets must be placed in a strong, durable carrier with adequate ventilation, food, and water.
- Pet Fee: A cargo fee applies and varies based on destination, weight, and size.
- Pet Transport via Air India Cargo
Air India also provides a specialized service through Air India Cargo for larger pets or destinations where in-cabin or checked baggage travel isn't feasible.
- Pet Care: The cargo hold is climate-controlled, ensuring pets' safety and comfort.
- Booking: You must contact Air India Cargo directly to arrange transport for pets via cargo.
- Documentation and Health Requirements
- Health Certificate: A veterinary health certificate from a licensed veterinarian is required, especially for international travel. This certificate should confirm the pet is fit for travel and meets the health requirements of the destination country.
- Rabies Vaccination: A valid rabies vaccination certificate is often required for international travel.
- Import Permits:Some countries may require additional documentation, such as an import permit. Check the destination country's regulations in advance.
- Special Considerations
- Emotional Support Animals (ESA): Air India allows ESAs in the cabin, provided passengers submit proper documentation from a licensed mental health professional. ESAs must adhere to the same size and carrier requirements as other pets.
- Service Animals: Service animals are allowed in the cabin free of charge, and no carrier is required. Service animals can sit at the passenger's feet during the flight.
- Important Restrictions
- Breeds: Certain dog breeds, particularly snub-nosed breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers), may have transport restrictions due to respiratory risks during flight. Always check with Air India regarding breed-specific restrictions.
- Temperature Extremes: Air India may refuse to transport pets for their safety if temperatures are extreme (either very hot or cold).
FAQs
Yes, small pets (dogs, cats, birds) can travel in the cabin if their combined weight (pet + carrier) is 7 kg (15 lbs) or less and they are in a proper carrier.
Please inform Air India at the time of booking or contact customer service. Only a limited number of pets are allowed in the cabin.
Pets exceeding 7 kg can travel as checked baggage in the cargo hold if they meet the size and weight restrictions.
Service animals travel free of charge, and ESAs are allowed with proper documentation, following the same size and carrier requirements.
Snub-nosed breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs) may have restrictions due to respiratory issues during the flight. Always verify with Air India before booking.
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