Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released new operational guidance to assist airlines in managing in-cabin pet travel at every stage, from booking to arrival.
This initiative follows IATA’s recently launched Guidance on Traveling with Service Dogs, aiming to improve consistency in the transport of dogs by air.
“A pet is a much-loved member of the family. People traveling with their pets need clear guidance on what to expect at every step of the journey. That’s important because well-prepared travelers and industry-wide best practices enable airlines to deliver a safe, consistent, and efficient experience for those traveling with their pets,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo.
According to IATA’s 2025 Global Passenger Survey, about a quarter of respondents have or would consider traveling with a pet. Key findings include:
- 41% cited uncertainty around pet eligibility as a challenge,
- 36% were unsure about airline policies, and
- 34% were unclear about the overall process of traveling with a pet.
The new In-Cabin Operational Guidelines aim to address these concerns by establishing recommended procedures that promote a predictable experience while ensuring safety, animal welfare, and operational efficiency.
> Download the Operational Guidelines for In-Cabin Pet Transport (pdf)
For more information, please contact:
Corporate Communications
Tel: +41 22 770 2967
Email: corpcomms@iata.org
Notes for Editors:
- IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents over 370 airlines, accounting for about 85% of global air traffic.
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