Guidelines for Flying with Pets in Australia

When flying with a pet in Australia, there are specific requirements and regulations that must be followed. Here’s a detailed overview:

General Requirements

1. Age and Health: Pets must be over eight weeks old and in good health. A health check by a veterinarian is recommended prior to travel to ensure vaccinations are up to date and the pet is fit to fly.

2. Transportation: Pets are typically required to travel in an airline-approved crate that meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. The crate must be appropriately sized for the pet, allowing them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

3. Weight Limits: Each airline has specific weight limits that include the pet and the crate. For example, Virgin Australia has a maximum combined weight of 65 kg for pets and their crates, while Rex Airlines limits this to 30 kg due to the smaller size of their planes.

Cabin vs. Cargo

• Cabin Travel: While the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has allowed pets to travel in the cabin since December 2021, no major Australian airline currently permits this for pets other than service dogs. Thus, most pets must travel in the cargo area.

• Cargo Travel: Pets traveling in cargo will be placed in a temperature-controlled area of the aircraft. Airlines like Qantas and Virgin Australia ensure that the conditions in the cargo hold are similar to those in the cabin.

Airline-Specific Policies

• Qantas: Only service dogs are allowed in the cabin. All other pets must travel in cargo, and owners should book their pet’s flight before their own due to limited space.

• Virgin Australia: Similar to Qantas, only service dogs can fly in the cabin. Pets must be healthy, at least eight weeks old, and have necessary documentation, including health certificates and vaccination records. They also require an approved pet carrier.

• Rex Airlines: Pets must travel as excess baggage and cannot be in the cabin. The maximum weight for pets and their crates is 30 kg.

Additional Considerations

• Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents, such as health certificates and vaccination records, are prepared before travel. Some airlines may require these to be issued within a specific timeframe prior to departure.

• Breed Restrictions: Certain breeds, particularly those classified as aggressive or brachycephalic (snub-nosed), may face additional restrictions or may not be allowed to fly. Always check with the airline for specific breed policies.

In summary, flying with a pet in Australia requires careful planning, adherence to airline policies, and ensuring your pet’s health and comfort throughout the journey. Always check with the specific airline for the most current regulations and requirements.

Citations: https://petraveller.com.au/blog/domestic-air-travel-in-australia-with-your-pet https://www.ferndalekennels.com/en/blog/can-you-take-your-dog-on-a-plane-in-australia/ https://www.skyscanner.com.au/news/guide-to-travelling-with-pets-2022 https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-care/guides/pet-travel-guide https://www.singaporeair.com/en_UK/sg/travel-info/special-assistance/travelling-with-pets/ https://freight.qantas.com/pets/pets-domestic-travel.html https://www.dogtainers.com.au/airline/ https://www.dogtainers.com.au/pet-flights/