Flying with Pets in India — Airline Rules, Costs & Complete Guide

Taking your dog or cat on a flight? Here's everything you need — airline policies, cabin vs cargo rules, documents, costs, and what to expect.

Airline Pet Policies

Documents Required

• ☐ Health certificate from registered vet (within 10 days of travel)
• ☐ Vaccination records — Rabies certificate is mandatory
• ☐ NOC from airline — Pre-approval required 48-72 hours before flight
• ☐ IATA-approved carrier/crate — Hard-sided for cargo, soft for cabin

Cabin vs Cargo

• Cabin: Pet under 5kg (including carrier) sits under your seat. Only on Air India and Vistara. Book early — limited to 1-2 pets per flight.
• Cargo: Pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo hold. Available on all airlines. Required for pets over 5kg.
• Service/emotional support dogs: Allowed in cabin on all airlines at no extra charge (with documentation)

Breed Restrictions

• ⚠️ Snub-nosed breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) — higher risk at altitude, some airlines restrict them
• ⚠️ Aggressive breeds — May be restricted by certain airlines
• ✅ Check with your specific airline 72 hours before booking

Tips for a Smooth Pet Flight

1. Book the earliest morning flight — cooler cargo hold temperatures
2. Don't feed 4 hours before the flight (avoid nausea)
3. Put a familiar blanket or toy in the carrier
4. Attach a water bottle to the crate for cargo travel
5. Label the crate with your name, phone, and "LIVE ANIMAL"