The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has introduced new operational guidelines aimed at airlines for managing in-cabin pet travel throughout the entire travel process. This includes every stage from booking to check-in, boarding, and arrival.
These guidelines come on the heels of IATA’s recent guidance on traveling with service dogs, highlighting a broader initiative to enhance consistency in the air transport of dogs. According to IATA’s 2025 Global Passenger Survey, around 25% of respondents have considered or are open to traveling with pets. Among these, 41% expressed concerns about pet eligibility, 36% were uncertain about airline policies, and 34% were confused about the overall process of pet travel.
The newly developed In-Cabin Operational Guidelines are designed to address these common issues, providing recommended procedures to ensure a more reliable travel experience while prioritizing safety, animal welfare, and operational efficiency.
For more detailed information, the full report is available in the attached version of AVIONEWS.
Source: AVIONEWS – World Aeronautical Press Agency, Geneva, Switzerland, July 15, 2026.
