Traveling with pets is becoming more and more popular, but the rules for transporting pets in the cabin vary from airline to airline and from route to route. It's important to know not only who allows cats and dogs on board, but also what weight, container, and document requirements apply. Learn more about which airlines allow pets in the cabin and how to prepare your pet for the flight

Traveling with a pet is not only emotional support on the road, but also a whole set of organizational issues. Not all airlines allow pets in the cabin, and the conditions may vary depending on the route, type of aircraft, and internal rules of the carrier. In addition, there are restrictions on the weight of the animal together with the carrier and requirements for the type of container.

According to European and international airlines, as well as specialized media, some carriers allow small cats and dogs to be taken directly into the cabin if the owners follow the established rules. In this article, we have compiled a list of such airlines, the basic requirements for transporting animals, the rules for entering EU countries, and practical tips on how to prepare your pet for a flight.

Earlier, we told you that European low-cost airlines have announced lucrative offers for spring and summer flights.

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Which airlines allow pets in the cabin?

According to the British newspaper Daily Mail, citing airline rules and expert commentary, a number of European and international carriers allow small cats and dogs to be transported directly in the cabin. However, the conditions may vary depending on the route and type of aircraft, as well as the internal policies of a particular airline.

Not all carriers allow pets in the cabin, and even those that do, the rules may vary from flight to flight. Usually, this only applies to small animals that can be placed under the seat in a special carrier. Therefore, before booking tickets, you should check the current requirements on the airline's website for a particular route.

Airlines that allow pets in the cabin (subject to conditions):

1. KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines)

2. Lufthansa

3. Air France

4. Vueling Airlines

5. Aegean Airlines

6. Iberia

7. Air Canada

8. Turkish Airlines

9. Qatar Airways 10.

Important: many airlines have a limit on the number of animals in the cabin on one flight, so you need to agree and book your pet's transportation in advance.

Rating of the safest airlines in 2026 — find it here.

What are the requirements for transporting pets in the cabin?

Even if the airline allows you to take pets in the cabin, this does not mean that transportation is possible without restrictions. The rules depend on the carrier, route, and type of aircraft, but the basic requirements are similar in most cases. That's why it's important to familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of a particular airline before buying a ticket.

Most carriers have the following rules:

1. The animal must be in an approved soft carrier or container;

2. The total weight of the animal with the carrier usually does not exceed approximately 8 kg;

3. The carrier must be placed under the seat in front of the aircraft at all times during the flight;

4. The number of animals in the cabin on one flight is limited, so a seat for your pet must be booked in advance;

5. The rules may vary depending on the direction of the flight and the model of the aircraft.

It should also be borne in mind that some airlines allow only cats and dogs to be transported in the cabin, while others may have additional restrictions on the breed or age of the animal. Therefore, before booking tickets, you should always check the current requirements for your flight on the airline's website.

What documents and vaccinations are required for traveling with a pet, including to EU countries

Traveling with a pet requires not only the airline's permission, but also properly executed documents and compliance with veterinary requirements. For international travel, especially to EU countries, there are clear rules regarding the identification and vaccination of animals, and without them, transportation may be prohibited.

General requirements for cats, dogs, and ferrets include:

- A microchip is required;

- Current rabies vaccination;

- After the initial full course of vaccination, it is necessary to wait at least 21 days before traveling;

- If revaccination was done on time, without a break in the effect of the previous vaccine, no additional waiting period is required.

For traveling to the European Union, it is also necessary to obtain a veterinary certificate of health from a veterinarian. This document is valid for:

- 10 days from the date of issue for entry into the EU;

- Up to 4 months for further travel within the EU after entry;

- Up to 4 months for re-entry into the UK.

Since the requirements may vary depending on the country of destination and current immigration control rules, you should additionally check with official veterinary services or the airline's website before traveling.

For information about carry-on baggage and what is prohibited from being taken on board the aircraft in 2026, follow the link.

What should I feed my pet before a flight?

Flights are unusual for most pets, as the cabin pressure, air temperature, and daily routine change. All of this can affect the pet's digestion and general condition, so nutrition before the trip plays an important role. Experts advise choosing light foods that the animal is used to, with low-fat protein sources and simple carbohydrates, as well as paying attention to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids and prebiotics and probiotics that are beneficial for the intestines.

At the same time, you should not give your pet large or heavy portions, fatty foods, dairy products, and high-fiber vegetables such as beans or lentils before a flight. It is also undesirable to experiment with new treats or feed “human” foods, as at altitude such foods can cause fermentation in the intestines and discomfort. The best solution is to leave the usual diet and, if necessary, consult your veterinarian in advance about the diet on the day of the flight.

An important nuance: how the EU legally treats the transportation of animals on airplanes

In October 2025, the Court of Justice of the European Union issued a decision that directly affects the rights of passengers traveling with pets. According to the court, animals on board an airplane can be classified as baggage. This means that in case of loss or damage to the animal, the airline is not obliged to pay increased compensation as for damage to the passenger's health, and the carrier's liability is limited to the rules on baggage.

The practical conclusion for travelers is simple: even if an animal is flying in the cabin with its owner, it is not legally equivalent to a passenger. Therefore, before flying, it is worth checking the terms of the airline's liability and, if possible, considering additional insurance for your pet.

Are you preparing for a trip abroad in 2026?

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We remind you! The European Union has systematically revised its approach to visa policy for the first time, laying down new rules for travel, work, and legal migration. The decision may affect both short-term visas and long-term plans of foreigners who see their future in Europe. We discuss the key changes in the first EU visa policy strategy and their possible consequences here.

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