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Travelling with your pet by air in India requires planning — from airline selection and documentation to crate specifications and health certificates. This guide covers everything you need to know about flying with dogs, cats, and other pets on Indian airlines.
| Airline | In Cabin | Cargo/Checked | Weight Limit | Fee (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air India | Yes (small pets) | Yes | In cabin: 5 kg (pet + carrier). Cargo: up to 32 kg | Cabin: ₹5,000-₹10,000. Cargo varies by weight/route |
| IndiGo | No | No (only service animals) | N/A | Only trained service dogs allowed in cabin |
| SpiceJet | No | No (only service animals) | N/A | Only trained service dogs allowed in cabin |
| Akasa Air | Yes (small pets) | Yes | In cabin: 7 kg (pet + carrier) | Cabin: ₹3,000-₹5,000 depending on route |
Important: IndiGo and SpiceJet do NOT allow pets (only certified service/assistance dogs). If you need to fly with a pet on a domestic flight, your primary options are Air India and Akasa Air. Alternatively, use pet cargo services through specialised pet relocation companies.
| Document | Details | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Health Certificate | From a registered veterinarian stating the pet is healthy and fit to fly | Within 3-7 days of travel |
| Vaccination Records | Up-to-date rabies vaccination (minimum 30 days before travel). Other core vaccines | Current |
| NOC from Animal Quarantine | No Objection Certificate from Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) — for interstate travel | Per trip |
| Pet Passport/ID | Microchip number, breed, colour, owner details | Permanent |
| Airline Booking Confirmation | Confirmation that pet has been accepted on the flight | Per flight |
For cargo travel, the crate must be IATA-compliant:
TheBookFlight can help you find pet-friendly flights and coordinate the booking process.
Contact SupportNo, IndiGo does not allow pets on their flights. Only certified service/assistance dogs for passengers with disabilities are permitted. For pet travel on domestic flights, consider Air India or Akasa Air which accept pets in cabin and cargo.
In-cabin pet travel costs approximately Rs 3,000 to Rs 10,000 depending on the airline and route. Cargo pet travel costs vary by weight and route, typically Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 for domestic flights. Contact the airline directly for exact pricing.
Yes, but only on airlines that allow it — Air India and Akasa Air are the main options in India. Your pet must be small enough to fit in an airline-approved carrier under the seat (typically under 5-7 kg including carrier). Only dogs and cats are usually allowed in cabin.
Your pet needs an up-to-date rabies vaccination (given at least 30 days before travel) and other core vaccines as recommended by your vet. You will also need a health certificate from a registered veterinarian dated within 3-7 days of travel.
Many airlines restrict or ban brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats, Shih Tzus, Pekingese) from cargo travel due to respiratory risks at altitude. In-cabin travel may be allowed for small brachycephalic breeds. Check with the specific airline before booking.
For interstate air travel with pets in India, you may need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS). Requirements vary by state. Contact the AQCS office in your city at least 7 days before travel.