The trend of traveling with pets is on the rise, as more pet owners opt to take their furry friends along for vacations and relocations. Sanjana Kapoor, a New Delhi resident, prefers to fly with her Shih Tzu, Coco, due to his small size, allowing him to join her in the cabin rather than boarding at a kennel.
Airlines like Air India and Akasa Air are leading the way in offering structured pet travel services, though restrictions apply primarily to dogs and cats. Air India’s updated Paws on Board program allows pets weighing up to 10 kg in the cabin under specific conditions, while heavier animals can fly as checked baggage or cargo. Moreover, certain breeds like snub-nosed dogs must remain in the cabin due to respiratory risks.
Internationally, the costs for pet travel vary, with Air India charging around $140 for in-cabin travel and $350 for checked pets. Akasa has similar rules and offers priority services for pet travelers.
The global pet industry is projected to reach $500 billion by 2030, prompting increased pet-friendly offerings in hotels, restaurants, and co-working spaces. Pet-parent Divya Dugar emphasizes the importance of understanding a destination’s pet import regulations before booking travel.
For those looking for a luxury experience, specialized pet-first aviation services like BARK Air and K9 Jets are emerging, catering specifically to pet owners.
As the aviation industry evolves, it appears that vacationing with pets is becoming more accessible and enjoyable.
