For pet owners planning a holiday, the question of whether to bring a furry friend along is a common dilemma. While the idea of travelling with a beloved dog or cat is appealing, navigating airline policies can be complex and costly. Each carrier has distinct rules regarding pets in the cabin or hold, and it is crucial to check destination-specific requirements, including customs procedures for returning to the UK. This article details the pet travel regulations for popular airlines such as TUI, easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, and British Airways, offering essential insights for a smooth journey.
TUI Pet Travel Policy
TUI does not permit pets in the aircraft cabin, with the exception of registered assistance dogs, which travel free of charge. All other animals must be transported in the hold, typically on the same flight as their owners. The airline assures that the hold is pressurised and maintained at the same temperature as the passenger cabin. Pets must be housed in a travel box equipped with a water bowl, and medical sedation is prohibited, though herbal calming products are allowed. Owners are advised to contact TUI in advance via phone or email to confirm accommodation availability, as some routes have restrictions, and to arrange pet travel beforehand.
EasyJet Pet Travel Rules
EasyJet has a strict policy: animals are not allowed on flights, except for recognised registered guide and assistance dogs. This prohibition applies to both the cabin and the hold. Passengers travelling with assistance dogs must notify the special assistance team at least 48 hours before departure and provide documentation proving the pet is a trained assistance dog. Additionally, the dog requires an animal health certificate or an accepted pet passport, along with necessary vaccination certificates based on the destination.
Ryanair Pet Travel Guidelines
Ryanair similarly prohibits animals on board, with the sole exception of guide or assistance dogs on specific routes. These dogs must be registered with organisations such as Assistance Dogs International (ADI), Assistance Dogs UK, or the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF). The airline explicitly states that emotional support or therapy dogs not recognised by these organisations are not permitted. Detailed requirements for assistance dogs are available on Ryanair's website, emphasising the need for proper registration and compliance.
Jet2 Pet Travel Regulations
Jet2 does not allow pets in the cabin or hold, permitting only assistance dogs to travel onboard free of charge. Passengers are instructed to contact the Assisted Travel Team prior to travel to make necessary arrangements. The airline notes that an additional seat may be required to provide adequate floor space for the assistance dog to lie down, potentially incurring an extra charge depending on the dog's size. Jet2 also reserves the right to resolve conflicts arising from the assistance needs of multiple customers on the same flight, including the carriage of assistance dogs, at its discretion.
British Airways Pet Travel Policy
British Airways mandates that all pets must be carried in the hold on flights to and from the UK, partnering with specialised cargo services for pet transport, details of which are found on its travelling with pets page. The airline does not accept emotional support dogs in the cabin; they must travel as pets in the hold. However, assistance dogs are an exception and can travel free of charge in the cabin, provided they are registered and trained with a suitable organisation and registered ahead of the flight's departure.
Additional Airlines: Air France and Vueling
For broader context, Air France is one of the few European airlines that allows pets in the cabin, but with restrictions: only cats or dogs up to 8kg in weight, with a total weight of 75kg including the carrier, are permitted. Larger pets must go into the hold. Owners must contact Air France before travel and adhere to strict requirements, including vet clearance for snub-nosed breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats. Pets are not allowed in the cabin on intercontinental flights or in business class.
Vueling, a Spanish airline, also permits some pets in the cabin, including dogs, cats, birds, and turtles, provided they remain in a carrier at all times. Pets are not allowed in the hold. The maximum weight for pets, including the carrier, is 10kg, and the carrier must fit under the seat in front. Pet owners should check destination country requirements and contact the airline to book space for their pet.
In summary, while most major airlines restrict pets to the hold or prohibit them entirely, assistance dogs are generally accommodated with proper documentation. Always verify policies and prepare in advance to ensure a hassle-free travel experience with your pet.
