Swissport has indeed opened a new pet lounge for handling unaccompanied pets on flights, at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

Swissport has launched this new facility at Johannesburg’s primary airport, which handles most of South Africa’s international and domestic flights.
PET LOUNGE JOHANNESBURG AIRPORT
The lounge is separated from the airport’s general air cargo warehouse. That said, Swissport’s Pet Lounge offers a calm environment for travelling pets.
“The Swissport Pet Lounge sets a new benchmark in animal handling at an airport in South Africa, making the stay for our special travellers as relaxing as possible,” said Khangi Khoza, CEO of Swissport South Africa.
The facility offers amenities such as air-conditioning, water and designated spaces for animals waiting for their flights or collection by their owners or agents.
It also includes an area for checking animals and their travel documents. This is in addition to separate rooms where pets await their flights or handling agents.
TRAINED STAFF HANDLE PETS
The lounge has trained personnel who ensure compliance with the International Air Transport Association’s Live Animals Regulations and work closely with South Africa’s state veterinary service to manage the safety and well-being of pets.
“Passengers who want to fly with their pets should consult a specialised animal handling agent who can provide a crate, process the necessary travel documentation and inform passengers about potential quarantine regulations in various countries,” Khoza says.
NEED FOR IMPROVED PET HANDLING
With people (and their pets) moving around the globe more often, there has become a greater need for improved pet handling in aviation.
“The facility reflects our commitment to delivering services that benefit the animals and our customers, airlines and forwarders alike.” Khoza said.
Major airport hubs such as Doha in Qatar now have top-class pet handling services for animals on their flights.
PETS ON FLIGHTS
Moreover, some airlines now allow passengers to bring pets into their aircraft cabins. This is provided that these animals can fit into pet carriers that must fit under the seat.
KLM allows passengers to bring small pets onto flights, provided the passenger flies with their pet in economy class.
South Africa’s Lift Airline allows passengers to bring cats and small dogs into the cabin on its domestic flights.
That said, the hospitality sector has indeed changed in recent years regarding the accommodation of pets.
Many hotels and accommodation establishments also welcome guests who bring their pets with them.