For pet owners who love to travel, ensuring their furry companions have a safe and comfortable journey is a top priority. If you’re planning to fly with Air Canada, understanding their pet policy is essential. From in-cabin travel to cargo options, Air Canada has clear rules and procedures to accommodate pets while ensuring their well-being throughout the flight.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Air Canada pet policy, including cabin and cargo options, fees, restrictions, and useful tips for pet travel.
Does Air Canada Allow Pets on Board?
Yes! Air Canada allows pets to travel on their flights, but there are specific conditions depending on your pet’s size, breed, and travel destination. Pets can either travel in the cabin with their owners or as checked baggage in the cargo hold. However, certain aircraft and routes have restrictions, so planning ahead is crucial.
Pets Traveling in the Cabin
If you have a small cat or dog, Air Canada allows them to travel with you in the cabin, provided they meet the airline’s weight and carrier requirements.
Requirements for In-Cabin Travel
- Only small cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin.
- The pet must remain in a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
- The total weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 22 lbs (10 kg).
Pet Carrier Guidelines
- The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and spacious enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Maximum soft-sided carrier dimensions: 21 cm (height) × 40 cm (width) × 55 cm (length).
- The pet must remain inside the carrier at all times throughout the flight.
Restrictions for Cabin Travel
- Certain aircraft types do not allow in-cabin pets due to space limitations.
- Business Class on Boeing 787-8/9 aircraft does not accommodate pets in the cabin.
- Air Canada does not allow emotional support animals (ESAs) in the cabin. Only trained service dogs are permitted outside carriers.
Fees for In-Cabin Pets
- Within Canada & U.S.: $50–$59 (CAD/USD) per direction.
- International Flights: $100–$118 (CAD/USD) per direction.
Pets Traveling in the Cargo Hold
For pets that exceed the in-cabin weight limit, Air Canada offers a checked baggage option, meaning pets will travel in the pressurized, climate-controlled cargo hold.
Cargo Travel Requirements
- Dogs and cats that weigh more than 22 lbs (10 kg) (including their carrier) must travel in the cargo hold.
- Pets must be at least 12 weeks old to fly.
- Certain short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds, like Bulldogs and Persian cats, may be restricted due to respiratory risks.
Approved Pet Carriers for Cargo Travel
- A hard-sided, IATA-approved carrier is required.
- The carrier should be secure, leak-proof, and ventilated on all sides.
- The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier.
Cargo Travel Fees
- Fees vary by route, destination, and pet size, but generally range from $270–$320 CAD per pet, per direction.
Important Considerations for Cargo Travel
- Some international destinations have strict pet import requirements (e.g., health certificates, vaccinations, and quarantine rules).
- Air Canada may restrict pet travel during extreme weather conditions (hot summers or freezing winters).
- Check-in time for pets traveling as cargo is at least 2-3 hours before departure.
Service Animals vs. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
Air Canada recognizes service dogs trained to assist individuals with disabilities. These dogs can travel in the cabin free of charge, but must be under control at all times.
However, emotional support animals (ESAs) are not recognized as service animals and must travel under the standard pet policy (either in-cabin or cargo, depending on their size).
Breed Restrictions & Travel Limitations
Due to potential health risks, Air Canada does not allow certain brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds to fly in the cargo hold. These breeds include:
- Bulldogs (French, English)
- Pugs
- Boxers
- Persian cats
- Himalayan cats
If you own a restricted breed, contact Air Canada for alternative travel options or consider ground transport for safety reasons.
Essential Tips for Traveling with Pets on Air Canada
- Reserve Early: Air Canada limits the number of pets per flight, so book your pet’s spot as soon as possible.
- Prepare Your Pet: Help your pet get used to their carrier before the trip to reduce stress.
- Visit the Vet: Ensure your pet is healthy for travel and obtain any required vaccinations or health certificates.
- Pack Essentials: Bring food, water, a leash, and comfort items for your pet’s journey.
- Arrive Early: Check-in procedures for pets take longer, so arrive at the airport at least 2–3 hours before departure.
- Check Destination Rules: Some countries have strict import regulations for pets, including quarantine periods.
Final Thoughts
Flying with your pet can be a stress-free experience if you follow Air Canada’s pet policy and prepare accordingly. Whether traveling in the cabin or cargo hold, ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety is key. Always check for updated airline regulations before booking your flight, as policies may change based on destination, season, or aircraft availability.
By planning ahead and adhering to Air Canada’s guidelines, you and your furry friend can enjoy a seamless travel experience. Safe travels!
