Travel On Board With Your Large Dog 2024

As pet ownership continues to grow and travel becomes more frequent, many pet parents face difficulties in flying with a large dog. While many airlines have restricted cabin access to only small pets, some are adopting policies to accommodate large breed dogs. 

With our blog, we aim to enlighten top airlines that allow large dogs in the cabins so that you can happily travel with your furry friend. Get ready to explore and collect details before booking your flight!

Introduction to Cabin Pet Policy

Before getting to a specific airline, it’s better to understand basic policies related to cabin pets. Usually, the airline has standards like weight and size restrictions on the carrier, which can vary depending on the airline. This is to ensure the safety of both the passenger and the four-legged traveler. In most cases, only small pets are able to fit into these limitations. Some of the key considerations include:

• Maximum weight limit for dogs.
• Pet carrier size restrictions.
• Health and vaccination certificate requirements.
• Applicable fees.

Considering these facts, it’s very unusual to fly with a large dog in the cabin during a flight. Since all these restrictions are laid out to ensure that the pet carrier can fit underneath the seat or in between the seats, it becomes impossible for the bigger dogs to do the same. Therefore, large breeds like Huskies and Labradors are automatically eliminated. 

How to Fly with a Large Dog in the Cabin?

If all the airlines are ruling out larger breeds, how can you travel with your furry companion? Well, it is not easy to travel with big-sized dogs, as there are many restrictions and considerations involved. Yet, the biggest obstacle is to find airlines that allow large dogs in the cabin. The reason is simple: many carriers out there permit only small breeds, while the pet owners are demanding a better option. 

Fortunately, there are a couple of airlines that give passengers the option to fly with a large dog. We have done proper research and listed all the airlines below. You have to go through pet carrier restrictions and check whether your paw-friend meets the stated requirements. 

Airlines List: Flying with a large dog

Here’s the solution you’ve been looking for! Check out this list of airlines that allow large dogs to travel in the cabin. I hope this article answers all your questions.

1. JetSuiteX – JSX

Many flyers traveling with medium-to-large-sized dogs gravitate towards JSX, as it permits in-cabin travel for bigger breeds. However, there are some restrictions to pay attention to, but overall, the airline is very pet-friendly. 

First of all, the airline states that customers or pet owners are responsible for complying with rules and government regulations of the departing and arriving destinations. This also includes producing documents like valid health and rabies vaccination certificates when asked. 

The under-seat pet carrier is usually not a fit for bigger breeds like Huskies. In that case, passengers will have to buy an adjacent seat, and the dog can lie in front of the seat. You will have to contact the customer team at (800) 435-9579 for booking the adjacent seat. Plus, also inform the Airport Services Concierge (ASC) about the same at the time of check-in. 

These are some of the guidelines to keep in mind while traveling with medium-to-large dogs in a cabin with JSX:

• It is compulsory for the passengers to purchase one additional seat. Only one dog is allowed to occupy the space in front of the adjacent seat. 
• There is no fixed rate for the seat, and every passenger has to purchase it at the current price. 
• Customers have to put their pets on leashes at all times. 
• The maximum allowable weight limit is 79 lbs.
• Pets must be well-trained and well-behaved. 
• Customers have to present a filled-out JSX Pet Acceptance Liability Form before boarding the plane. The ASC will keep a copy of the flight paperwork.
• This is to inform you that if you book a seat on an aircraft with a seating layout of two seats on both sides, the leashed pet can occupy the space in front of the window seat. 
• The seats are provided on any row but not the emergency exit lane. 
• No pet, whether big or small, is allowed to sit on the seat. 
• If your pet exhibits aggressive or disruptive behavior, it can lead to denied boarding. 

It is worth noticing that JSK allows service and emotional support animals of all sizes in the cabin. However, this calls for filling out a specific form before boarding the flight. 

2. Bark Air

This newly launched pet-friendly airline enables all in-cabin travel for dogs of all sizes and breeds. The company started off by selling out doggy products on a subscription-based service and recently decided to take this venture to a new height by introducing an airline to deliver flight experiences to dogs. The service has began on Thursday, May 23, 2024. 

At present, the airline is providing bi-weekly flights to and from New York, Los Angeles, and London. These services are also available in Paris and many more destinations in the future. Whether you are flying internationally or within the national boundaries, the Bark Air aims to provide the “white paw experience” to your furry companion.

Some of the quick benefits, along with the must-know facts about flying with a large dog on Bark Air flights, include:

1. While booking a flight, the Bark Air concierge contacts the customer to collect information on the pet. This way, the airline is able to deliver the best travel experience possible. 
2. On the departure date, passengers (human and canine) can arrive at the airport 45 minutes before the scheduled time. There will be no crates, no stressful queues. 
3. The skilled airline concierge will help your dog settle in at the gate and make sure the cabin is all set up for your dog’s comfort. 
4. Plus, the staff is well-prepped with doggy treats, leashes, and poop bags. 
5. The “white paw experience” includes beverages, pre-boarding meals, spa treatments, blankets, etc.
6. As usual, the pet owner has to produce necessary vaccinations and health records for their dog’s safety and that of fellow passengers. 
7. One doggy ticket permits only one dog inside the cabin. However, travelers can purchase multiple passes if necessary. 

Bark Air is the best option for those who genuinely care about the inflight experience of their dogs. There is no hassle of pet carriers, check-in lines, and other restrictions during flight boarding. 

3. Aero Airlines

If your dog weighs over 20 lbs, choose Aero Airlines for your four-legged buddy, as it allows medium-to-large-sized dogs to fly onboard. Compared to other options, this airline is known for providing a more relaxed and comforting inflight experience. This could be your popular choice if you are traveling from Texas, California, Colorado, and Idaho, including routes from jaunts to Los Cabos, Mexico.

Despite being new in the industry of providing “inflight dog travel,” the airline is quickly gaining attention due to its services. There is no restriction on the maximum weight limit. The only thing you have to focus on is keeping the doggy in their seat for the entire flight duration and ensuring they don’t impede or obstruct the aisles. 

Additional information for pet travel to boost the overall flying experience and ensure no disruptions:

• The airline is capable of flying with only five (05) pets per aircraft. Under this limit, it permits only two large dogs to occupy the full price seats. 
• One adult passenger can include only one small pet in the carrier or a larger breed with its own seat.
• A family can bring two pets, but one adult per pet should be there.
• No guest is allowed to bring a pet along with an infant. 
• The airline does not grant exit row seats to passengers traveling with pets. 
• Your dog must have crossed at least 4 months and should be able to relieve themselves for the flight duration. On an international flight, they should be at least 6 months old. 
• Aside from cats and dogs, no other animals are allowed to travel in the cabin. 
• There is no such service as a cargo hold for pet transportation. 

Guests traveling on international flights to or from Mexico have to provide valid vaccination certificates. As for service animals, there is no additional fee rule; however, certain documents are required. 

4. Tradewind Aviation

This could be a better choice if you frequently travel from the Northeast to the Caribbean. Tradewind Aviation welcomes pets of all sizes, including large breed dogs, to travel in spacious cabins. With its pawfertly pet policies, you can rest assured of your dog’s comfort during the flight duration. 

It is to bring to your notice that the large pet policy is not applicable on all flights. For this service, you will have to book flights on Citation CJ3s and Pilatus PC-12s specifically. Plus, there is a limit of one pet per passenger and only three pets per jet. 

The requirement of purchasing an additional seat comes only when your dog is over 100 pounds. This implies that even if your dog is over the standard limit of 22 lbs, you do not have to get the extra ticket. Reducing stress and saving you some extra pennies. 

However, the real challenge is where our furry companion can sit. Large breeds have to sit in the last row with the adult passenger. The owner should put them in the pet carrier if they misbehave or become aggressive. 

The truth is that Tradewind Aviation goes over and beyond to ensure a comforting inflight experience for all, including pets. They make sure to accommodate reasonably in unforeseen situations, and sometimes, multiple pets may end up in the cabin. 

5. K9 Jets

Another one on the list that allows larger breeds of dog in the cabin is K9 Jets. The airline came into existence two years ago with only one motive: a relaxing journey for the pet owners and the four-legged being. Such an objective explains why it has been the top choice for many customers. 

When traveling with your pet via K9 Jets, you do not have to worry about bringing a carrier. Dogs are allowed to either sit on your lap or in the seat next to yours. Of course, you will have to buy additional seats, but only for dogs who weigh over 50 pounds. 

Here is a quick rundown of the additional information, along with some perks of choosing this airline for your four-legged friend:

• The airline needs valid documents of the pet’s vaccination and health certificates. Plus, the airline can help you understand your destination-specific rules and regulations regarding the same. 
• There is no need to stand in long queues for customs and security; everything is sorted when you fly with your paw companion. 
• An additional seat can carry two pets whose combined weight is less than 50 pounds. OR it is entitled to only one large-breed dog under 51 pounds. 
• However, if you are traveling with two dogs, both over 50 pounds, you will have to purchase two additional seats. 

Lastly, one of the most noticeable things about K9 Jets’ services is that they stay helpful throughout the journey. The airline can assist you with additional services, like taxis and car rentals. Arranging such facilities on the spot can be hectic for pet owners. 

6. NetJets

Proudly naming the service “Netpets,” the airline does not deny that pets are part of the family. Just last year, the airline flew over 25,000 flights with pets onboard, ensuring they know how to do the business! NestJets is another excellent option for traveling with a larger dog. 

You may come across many doubts and confusion while booking a flight with your dog. NetJets offers services to provide you the peace of mind you seek for your furry family member. All of its jets are capable of accommodating inflight pets even when every seat is occupied. 

On top of that, the premium and customizable services are not just for humans but for their pets as well! Just ask what your dog needs and our staff will happily provide them with treats and toys.

Before you book your flight, make sure to go through these points for a hassle-free flight journey quickly:

• Dogs weighing under 150 pounds are allowed to sit in a seat. Those exceeding the limit must lie down on the floor. 
• Passengers can choose from three seating options according to their pet and preference: a pet carrier, leasing the dog to the seat, or using the seat belt. 
• While all jets can carry pets on board, some aircraft permits allow booking pet tickets only when all seats are occupied. 

With NetJets, the pet owners are not the only ones who get the taste of luxury; dogs and cats also get the royal treatment. Your dog feels welcomed and comfortable for the complete journey with the airline.

7. Set Jet

Last but not least, Set Jet is the final company on our list allowing medium to large breed dogs in the cabin. These semi-private jets permit cats, dogs, and birds on a fee basis. This service is only accessible to approved members and can fly to destinations like Las Vegas, Aspen, and Salt Lake City. 

There are only a couple of rules that you have to keep in mind for a bother-less flight journey. 

• Pet owners or members must inform the company at least a day in advance if they plan to bring their pets on board. 
• It is compulsory to leash your dog in front of your seat for the complete journey. 
• In the case where your pet’s weight is between 20 and 60 pounds, the airline will levy a fee of $200 for pet travel. 
• If it’s over 61 pounds, you’ll pay a $250 fee for pet travel.

At Last!

While traveling or finding airlines that allow large dogs in cabins can be stressful, we hope we were able to simplify the process for you and answer most of your queries. When you are traveling someplace exciting, it’s only human nature to bring your furry buddy, too! Luckily, these airlines make it easier to explore destinations with your large pooch. 

Questions You May Ask:

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