Travelling with a cat by plane can appear complex. Between airline policies, entry requirements of the destination country, transport conditions and ensuring your pet’s comfort, thorough preparation before departure is essential. In this article, we outline the conditions to be met and administrative formalities when flying with your cat, as well as tips to help ensure your companion travels in the best possible conditions.
Can You Fly Your Cat with You on a Plane?
Yes, most airlines do allow cats on board, though always under specific conditions. Depending on the airline and your destination, you will generally have two options:
- In the cabin: if the combined weight of the animal and its carrier does not exceed the airline’s limit (often between 6 and 8 kg). Your cat must travel in a soft-sided bag or an airline approved carrier* and be placed under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight.
- In the hold: if the combined weight of your cat and its carrier exceeds the weight allowed by the cabin travel policy, or if the airline does not allow animals in the passenger cabin. In this case, your cat must be transported in a rigid IATA-compliant cage, in a pressurized and temperature-controlled compartment.
* Maximum dimensions are typically: 46 x 28 x 24 cm.
Some airlines also impose restrictions depending on the breed, the season (e.g. extreme heat or cold), or the number of animals allowed per flight. We strongly recommend checking your chosen airline’s pet policy well in advance and booking your cat’s transport at the same time as your own ticket.
Are you planning to travel with Air France or Emirates? Learn more about these airlines’ pet policies in our dedicated guides.
What Are the Options to Travel with a Cat by Plane?
When travelling abroad with your cat, there are two main options available: transporting your pet as excess baggage or arranging shipment via air cargo. Each option comes with its own conditions, costs, and benefits.
Option 1: Traveling as “Excess Baggage”
In this case, your cat travels on the same flight as you, either in the cabin or in the aircraft hold, and is directly linked to your passenger ticket. The boarding process happens at the passenger terminal, at the airline check-in desk. Transporting your pet is considered an additional service to your ticket, similar to excess baggage, and is charged per piece according to the airline’s passenger tariff.