The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released new operational guidance to support airlines in managing in-cabin pet travel at every stage of the journey from booking to check-in, boarding, the on-board experience, and arrival.
It follows IATA’s recently launched Guidance on Travelling with Service Dogs, reflecting a broader effort to improve consistency in the transport of dogs by air.
Guidance for in-cabin pet travel
While most airlines will carry animals (that are required to provide assistance to passengers in the cabin), some airlines also allow pets to be carried in the aircraft cabin. However, there is little consistency among airlines regarding the processes and procedures for the carriage of pets in the cabin.
“A pet is a much-loved member of the family. People traveling with their pets need clear guidance on what to expect at every step of the journey. That’s important because well-prepared travelers and industry-wide best practices enable airlines to deliver a safe, consistent, and efficient experience for those traveling with their pets,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo.
IATA’s 2025 Global Passenger Survey found that about a quarter of respondents have or would consider traveling with a pet.
Of these:
- 41% cited uncertainty around pet eligibility as a challenge,
- 36% were unsure about airline policy, and
- 34% were unsure about the overall process of traveling with a pet.
The new In-Cabin Operational Guidelines address these concerns with recommended procedures to deliver a more predictable experience while maintaining safety, animal welfare, and operational efficiency.
Pets in the cabin
This is often restricted to smaller animals like cats and small dogs, which fit into specific carriers. These must generally be placed under the seat or in the passenger’s own onboard space.
South Africa’s Lift Airline is one such carrier that allows this. The regulations regarding the carriage of animals in the cabin vary by airline. Thus, there is a need for more clarity and consistency on this.
