Leaving your pet behind when you have to travel out of town can be a difficult decision for pet owners. Whether it’s due to work, personal reasons, or any other circumstance, eventually, you may find yourself in a situation where you have to leave your beloved pet at home. This can be particularly challenging if you live alone or struggle to find someone trustworthy to care for your pet in your absence.

As a relief to all the pet parents, you can fly with your pet. Flying with your pet in India is a feasible and enjoyable experience, as numerous airlines in the country are pet-friendly. However, there are some rules and regulations that must be followed to have a smooth travel experience. Let’s find more details and rules we have to follow when flying with your pet dog. 

Common Rules for Pet Dog Transportation through Flight in India Domestic Flights

When it comes to transporting pet dogs through domestic flights in India, some specific rules and regulations need to be followed to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals. Here are some common rules for pet dog transportation through flights in India,

Airline Regulations

Different airlines have their own set of rules and regulations regarding the transportation of pets. It is essential to check with the specific airline you plan to fly with to understand their policies on pet transportation.

Pet Crate Requirements

Most airlines require pets to be transported in an IATA-approved pet crate that meets certain size and ventilation requirements. The crate should be large enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Health Certificate

Before flying, pet owners are usually required to provide a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. This certificate typically includes information about the pet’s vaccination status and general health.

Booking in Advance

It is advisable to inform the airline about your intention to travel with a pet at the time of booking your ticket. Airlines often have limited space for pets on each flight, so early booking is recommended.

Arrival Time

Pet owners are usually required to arrive at the airport earlier than usual when traveling with a pet. This allows sufficient time for check-in procedures and ensures a smooth boarding process for the animal.

Sedation

It is generally not recommended to sedate pets before air travel unless specifically advised by a veterinarian. Sedation can affect pets’ respiratory systems at high altitudes, posing risks during the flight.

Handling Fees

Airlines may charge additional fees for transporting pets, so it is essential to inquire about any associated costs when making your travel arrangements.

Comfort and Safety

Pet owners should ensure that their dogs are comfortable throughout the journey by providing familiar items like blankets or toys in the crate. It is also crucial to attach identification tags with contact information on the crate.

By following these common rules and guidelines, you can ensure a safe and stress-free travel experience for your dogs when flying domestically within India.

Pet-Friendly Airlines in India

Pet-friendly airlines in India offer the convenience of traveling with your furry companions, ensuring a stress-free journey for both pet owners and their pets. With various airlines now allowing pets on board, pet parents can choose to have their pets accompany them in the cabin or cargo hold, subject to specific rules and regulations. From established carriers like Air India to newcomers like Akasa Air, pet-friendly services are becoming more accessible, providing a comfortable and safe travel experience for pets and their owners across domestic flights in India.

Other airlines like Jet Airways also allow pets but only within the cargo hold. IndiGo, AirAsia, and Vistara permit service animals to assist their owners during flights. 

Preparing your pet dog for a flight with Air India

Air India is one of the major carriers in India that allows pet dogs on domestic flights. They have a clear policy for the carriage of animals, stating that small inoffensive domestic pets such as dogs, cats, and birds accompanied by valid health and rabies vaccination certificates will be accepted on Air India domestic flights. Pets can travel either in the cabin or in the cargo hold at the owner’s risk and subject to the requirements of the carrier. The permission to bring pets on board is subject to the approval of the flight commander.

Air India’s Pet Travel Guidelines

• Pets must be properly carried in soft ventilated bags/kennels within prescribed size limits (not exceeding 18” x 18” x 12”)
• The weight of the pet including the container should not exceed 5 kg for cabin travel
• Larger pets will be transported in the cargo hold
• Dogs and cats must be at least 8 weeks old to travel, and pregnant pets will not be accepted
• A maximum of two pets are allowed per flight, with specific seating arrangements
• Additional requirements include labeling on the container, a moisture-absorbent mat inside, proper muzzling and leashing of dogs, and no occupation of passenger seats by pets

Exceptions

• For flights to/from via London – pets are not permitted in the cabin or as accompanied baggage
• For flights transiting the Middle East – live birds will not be carried as accompanied baggage either in the cabin or in the hold
• They may, however, be permitted as accompanied baggage from India to the Gulf

 Tips for smooth pet travel with SpiceJet

SpiceJet Pet Transportation Regulations in India

• Pets are not allowed in the cabin on SpiceJet flights unless they are service animals accompanying disabled passengers
• SpiceJet does not offer checked baggage service for live animals to its passengers
• Domesticated pets such as dogs and cats can be transported on Boeing B737-800 and 900 series aircraft only. Pets will travel in the cargo hold of the aircraft, whether accompanied or unaccompanied by owners.
• Puppies and kittens must be at least 12 weeks of age to be transported by SpiceJet.
• Aircraft Restrictions - SpiceJet transports animals only on Boeing B737-800 and 900 series aircraft
• Pets flying with SpiceJet must be checked in at their cargo facility at the departing airport

Required Documentation

• Health Certificate issued within 10 days of travel
• Rabies certificates
• Required documents for the destination country if traveling internationally, all in English

Breed Restrictions

Certain breeds of dogs and cats are banned from being transported by SpiceJet. These include Boxers, Bulldogs, Mastiffs, Spaniels, Akita, Chow Chow, Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Shar Pei, Shih Tzu (dogs), Burmese, Exotic, Himalayan, Persian (cats), among others.

Temperature Restrictions

Pets will not be accepted when temperatures exceed 85°F (29.4°C) or fall below 45°F (7.2°C) at any city on the itinerary.

Crate Requirements

• Kennel size should not exceed 18” x 18” x 12” (46 x 46 x 31 cm).
• IATA-compliant crates are mandatory
• Maximum of three pet crates per passenger

Certificates that are required for traveling with your pet on a domestic flight in India

When traveling with a pet on a domestic flight in India, there are certain certificates and documents that you need to carry to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your pet. The specific requirements may vary slightly depending on the airline, so it is always advisable to check with the airline you are flying with beforehand. However, some common certificates that are typically required include,

Health Certificate

One of the most important documents you will need when traveling with a pet is a health certificate issued by a registered veterinarian. This certificate usually confirms that your pet is in good health and fit to travel. It should be issued within a specified timeframe before your travel date, which can vary from one airline to another.

Vaccination Records

You should also carry the vaccination records of your pet, especially if they are required by the airline or if you are traveling internationally. Make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, including rabies vaccination, as this is often mandatory for air travel.

Pet Passport

While not always mandatory for domestic flights within India, having a pet passport can be beneficial as it consolidates all your pet’s essential information in one document. It typically includes details such as identification, vaccinations, and ownership information.

Identification Tags

Ensure that your pet has proper identification tags with your contact information in case they get lost during the journey.

Airlines’ Specific Requirements

Apart from the general certificates mentioned above, different airlines may have specific requirements or forms that need to be filled out before traveling with a pet. It is crucial to check these requirements well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Travel Crate

While not a certificate, it is essential to have an approved travel crate or carrier for your pet that meets the airline’s guidelines for size, ventilation, and safety.

By ensuring you have all the necessary certificates and documents ready before your journey, you can make the process of traveling with your pet much smoother and stress-free.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, traveling with pets in India can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for both you and your furry companion. With careful planning, consideration for your pet’s needs, and choosing pet-friendly destinations and accommodations, you can create unforgettable memories on your road trips. Embracing the adventure of exploring India with your pet can strengthen the bond between you and your four-legged friend while enjoying the beauty of the country together. 

If you have any doubts about flying with your pet dog in India feel free to comment below we will be happy to help you.