Take Your Pet Around the World! Top 15 Pet Friendly Airlines Ranking

For those who wish to travel overseas with their pets, here are 15 "pet-friendly" airlines in a ranking format that you can use with peace of mind. Based on the official pet policies of each airline, this article details the types of pets that are accepted, conditions for carry-on and cargo check-in, additional fees, special services, and more.

If you read this article, you will find information that will make you think, "With this airline, I can fly with my pet in peace! You are sure to find information that will make you think, "With this airline, I can fly with my pet with peace of mind! Let's take a look at the top 15 airlines recommended for international travel with pets.

1. American Airlines

The world's largestAmerican Airlinesis a relatively tolerant airline in terms of pet acceptance. Small dogs and cats can be carried in the cabin in their own carry-on cases and must be placed under the seat in a soft-type cage that fits under the seat and at the feet of the passenger. Pets are allowed on a wide range of routes, including U.S. domestic routes and routes to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, especially on medium- and short-haul routes of 12 hours or less.

The standard carry-on fee for pets is approximately $125 to $200 each way, depending on the sector (as of April 2024, the fee has been revised to a flat rate of $150). On the other hand, medium and large sized pets are not allowed in the cabin in principle, but can be safely checked in through American Airlines' PetEmbark, a dedicated cargo transportation service.

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General passengers are not allowed to check pets as checked baggage (check-in luggage), and over-sized pets must always be transported in the cargo hold (with some exceptions, such as military personnel).

Only dogs and cats are allowed to travel with pets in the cabin, and service animals are allowed without an additional charge by submitting separately prescribed documents. Please note that if you are traveling with a pet, you will be required to bring a kennel instead of the normal carry-on baggage, so please be aware of baggage restrictions other than carry-on cases.

American Airlines, which has a worldwide route network, is highly rated by travelers with pets in word-of-mouth reviews, and is the first airline that can be safely used.

2.JetBlue

Jet Blueis a U.S. airline, but is well known for its pet-friendly service. Only small pets such as dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin, and unfortunately, they do not offer pet transportation service in the cargo hold.

Instead,JetPaws."JetBlue has developed a unique pet program called "Pet Travel Program," in which passengers with pets are provided with useful in-flight travel tags, a pet travel bag, and a list of tips for boarding. In addition, JetBlue's frequent flyer program, TrueBlue, offers a bonus of 300 points for each flight taken with a pet, making pets welcome as "regular customers.

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Pet fares are relatively reasonable, ranging from about $100 to $125 per one-way trip, and you must reserve a pet slot along with your seat at the time of booking. Only a certain number of pets are allowed in the cabin, so it is essential to book early when flying JetBlue!

The airline mainly flies within the United States, but also offers routes to some Central and South American destinations, making it a popular choice for travelers who want to enjoy casual air travel with their small pets.

Air Canada

Canada's flag carrier, theAir Canadais another airline that offers flexibility for traveling with pets. Small dogs and cats 10 weeks of age or older are allowed in the cabin, provided they are placed in a carry-on case large enough to fit under the seat and placed at your feet.

The maximum number of carry-on pets is one kennel per passenger, and the additional fee is relatively reasonable, ranging from $50 to $59 each way for North American routes, and from $100 to $118 for international flights. On the other hand, for medium to large pets or kennels that do not fit in the cabin, Air Canada has dedicated pressurized cargo holds on many of its aircraft, allowing pets to be checked in at check-in and transported in the cargo hold of the same plane.

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Advance reservations are required for this service, but as with in-flight flights, your pet will be safely delivered to its destination in a temperature-controlled environment!

While dogs and cats are the only basic animals accepted, other animals may be transported through the air cargo division (AC Animals). Air Canada has a worldwide route network and is easily accessible for connecting travel from Japan to North America and Europe, making it a reliable airline that offers a wide range of travel options for those traveling with pets.

4. Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Linesis one of America's leading airlines and offers a wide range of options for traveling with pets. In addition to small dogs and cats, small birds (ornamental domestic birds) are allowed in the cabin only on flights within the United States.

The maximum weight of a carry-on pet, including cage, is limited to approximately 8 kg, and pet fares range from $75 (within North America) to a maximum of $200 (international) one-way, depending on the route. The pet must be at least 10 weeks old, in good health, and have room to stand up and turn around in the kennel.

For medium and large size pets, Delta Cargo, the cargo division of Delta Air Lines, provides transportation services for a fee. Delta Cargo provides dedicated air pressure- and temperature-controlled vehicles and rest facilities, and is prepared to handle pets safely during transit, providing peace of mind for long-distance travel and the transportation of large dogs.

I have a large dog and was able to take him to the US with no problem using Delta Cargo. They picked me up and dropped me off at the airport in a special temperature-controlled vehicle.

However, please note that there is a rule that short-headed dogs and cats (dogs and cats with flat noses) are not accepted for transportation in the cargo hold for health reasons. Delta Air Lines, which flies to more than 60 countries around the world, including Japan, is the airline of choice for pet owners because of its convenience in taking pets to a wide variety of destinations.

5. Air India

the flag carrier of India.Air Indiaalso accepts pets. Small dogs and cats, if they meet the requirements, can be carried on board or kept in the cargo hold.

Pets weighing up to 32 kg (including the cage) may be checked in as checked baggage, while large pets weighing over 32 kg will be treated as cargo.

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For both carry-on and checked baggage, you must apply for and make reservations with the airline in advance, and each flight is limited to a maximum of two pets per cabin.

The pet fee is charged according to weight, with the pet and cage considered as additional baggage, and is calculated at 600 Indian rupees per kilogram for domestic flights and a flat fee band based on distance for international flights (e.g., $10/kg for North American flights). Pets are counted as part of your carry-on baggage, so when accompanied by a pet, you will be charged separately from your regular checked and carry-on baggage.

In addition, pets younger than 8 weeks of age and pregnant pets are not allowed to board. Air India operates flights within India as well as to Europe and North America, and with the necessary documentation (import/export permits and vaccination certificates), it is possible to take your beloved pet on a long-haul flight with you.

6. air France

Air Franceis a major European airline that offers relatively generous service for pets.Dogs and CatsPets are accepted both in the cabin and in the cargo hold (provided they meet the size and weight requirements), and can travel with you on a wide range of short-haul and long-haul international flights within Europe.

Small dogs and cats weighing up to 6-8 kg including cage can be carried in the cabin and must be placed in an approved soft-type carry-on case (waterproof and breathable). On the other hand, medium and large pets weighing more than 8 kg are transported in the cargo hold and can be treated as checked baggage up to 75 kg (including cage) (more than that, they are treated as cargo flights).

Pet fares are based on a flat fixed fare system and depend on the distance flown. For example, it is set at €20 for domestic flights within France, €75 for intra-European routes, and €200 for other long-haul international flights.

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For safety reasons, pets are not allowed in the cabin for business class seats (on long-haul flights), so please pay attention to the seat class when flying Air France!

Air France takes the attitude that "pets are part of the customer," and allows passengers to bring their pets with them as long as they give 48 hours advance notice at the time of booking, and also informs them of requirements such as vaccination and microchipping prior to travel. Air France's flexible pet deposit policy, even for itineraries that include intra-European connections, makes it a reassuring option for those traveling with pets in Europe.

7. Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS)

the flag carrier of Switzerland.Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS)is also proactive in accepting pets, to the extent that it officially states that "pets are allowed on all routes. BasicallyDogs and CatsHowever, the number of pets allowed is relaxed to two per passenger (e.g., two small dogs can be carried on board in one cage), so you can take your pet anywhere in the world, regardless of the route.

Carry-on baggage is limited to dogs and cats weighing 8 kg or less including cage, while those weighing 9 kg or more must be transported in the cargo hold. UniqueHare and hareThese pets are not allowed in the cabin, but can be transported in the cargo hold if placed in an appropriate cage.

Pet fees vary by route, ranging from approximately $60-$130 when accompanied in the cabin to $100-$300 when checked in the cargo hold. Also, short-headed breeds (such as pugs and Persian cats) are sensitive to stress and temperature changes.Accepted only in guest roomsThe company operates with safety in mind, for example, by

I flew Swiss International Air Lines with my Persian cat. I was concerned because I had heard that short-breeds could not be checked in the cargo hold, but I was reassured to learn that SWISS would accept them in the cabin. In fact, the staff took care of us on board and made our trip comfortable.

The Lufthansa Group, including SWISS, charges some additional fees when using Frankfurt or Zurich as transit points, but the flexibility to fly around the world with your precious pet is still a big attraction. It is one of the most reliable airlines for itineraries to/from Europe, as well as for travel between Japan and Europe with your pet.

8. Turkish Airlines

Turkey.Turkish Airlines(Turkish Airlines) is known for its willingness to accept pets among Middle Eastern and European airlines.In addition to dogs and cats, small birds (songbirds) such as canaries and parakeetsThe hotel has a unique policy that allows guests to be accompanied in the guestrooms by a

Small birds can also be carried on board as long as they are placed in a small cage with a tight-fitting lid and placed at the foot of the plane. If two dogs or cats are kept in the same cage and placed in the same carrier, they are allowed to be carried on board as one animal (as long as they are well accustomed to each other), thus making it possible to keep multiple animals.

Additional charges for pets are detailed according to the route and weight of the pet, but are relatively low, ranging from about $15 for domestic Turkish flights and $70 for international flights, for example, if the pet is accompanied in the cabin.

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Pets of medium size and larger are transported in the cargo hold, but even in this case, they can travel worldwide as long as the necessary documents (health certificates and import/export permits) are prepared in advance. Note that there are restrictions on the number of pets carried in the cabin, with rules such as a maximum of one cage for each dog, cat, and bird on the same flight.

Therefore, it is recommended to contact the airline and make reservations as early as possible to determine if it is possible to bring your pet on the flight of your choice. This airline makes it possible to travel with pets to many countries via Istanbul, a hub connecting Europe and Asia.

9. frontier airlines

frontier airlineis an American LCC (low-cost carrier), but it is as flexible as the major airlines when it comes to carrying pets in the cabin. It is limited to flights within the U.S., though,Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and small birdsThe main feature of this system is that it allows a wide variety of small animals to be brought into the passenger cabin, ranging from the

Small mammals and small birds, which are often rejected by other companies, can be seated together with Frontier. HoweverOn international flights, only dogs and cats are allowed.It is important to note that this is not the case.

Pets must be carried in the cabin only, and Frontier Airlines does not offer any pet transport service (AVIH) in the cargo hold. Therefore, pets larger than medium size are not allowed, but for smaller pets, the rule is simple: they must be accompanied in the cabin.

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Pet rates are as of 2022,One way $99The fee is set at $3.50 per baggage allowance. The pet is treated as one piece of carry-on baggage, but if you pay a carry-on baggage fee, which is often the case with LCCs, your pet is included in the baggage allowance.

Frontier Airlines offers a wide range of connections to major U.S. cities and destinations, making it a cost-effective option for those wishing to travel throughout the United States with their pets.

10. Lufthansa

Germany's leading airlineLufthansa Airlinesalso offers services that cater to travelers with pets.Dogs and CatsSmall pets weighing 8 kg or less including cage can be safely transported in the cabin, while medium and large pets weighing more than 8 kg can be safely transported in the cargo hold.

Notable.Hare and hareThe point is that pets are also accepted for transport as checked baggage, which cannot be placed in the passenger cabin but can be checked in the cargo hold after prior consultation. Additional charges for transporting pets are set according to the distance of the route, ranging from about 55 euros for intra-European flights to 125 euros for long-haul international flights (*Fee structure from September 2024 onward).

As long as it is in a cage.Two small pets together and treated as one piece of baggageIt is also permitted (e.g., two cats that are close friends can be brought on board in the same cage), and they can be accompanied in the same cage at no additional charge.

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However, Lufthansa has a rule that animals other than dogs and cats (including rabbits) are not allowed in the cabin, so even if they weigh less than 8 kg, rabbits and other animals are only allowed in the cargo compartment. As there is a limit on the number of pets allowed on each flight, Lufthansa also recommends that you apply for a reservation at least 72 hours in advance!

With one of the largest networks in Europe, Lufthansa Airlines can help you and your pet travel comfortably around the world.

Aeroflot Russian Airlines (Aeroflot)

Russia.Aeroflotis famous in some ways for its overly comprehensive pet policy. that you won't find at other companies.exotic pet (e.g. tarantula)The company accepts up toFerrets, meerkats, foxes (fennecks), lorises (a type of curved-nosed monkey), hedgehogs, and small monkeysand other "people are accustomed topet (animal)Boarding may be permitted if the "I" is

Basically, dogs, cats, and birds are eligible for transport in the cabin and cargo hold, but other animals are also acceptable."Acclimatized pets kept at home."The regulations stipulate that a small animal can be checked in as checked baggage if it weighs 8 kg or less, including cage, or if the cage is large, up to 50 kg. Small animals weighing less than 8 kg including the cage may be carried in the cabin, and if the weight exceeds 8 kg or the cage is large, the animal may be transported in the cargo compartment with the passenger weighing less than 50 kg.

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Although some of the raptors, reptiles, and rodents (squirrels, guinea pigs, etc.) are not accepted for safety reasons, the range of species accepted is still one of the widest in the world!

Pet fees are published as roughly $83 for international flights and $57 for domestic flights within Russia. With Aeroflot, even pets that you might think, "Is this animal too small to fly? However, Aeroflot's service is subject to the animal quarantine regulations of the countries you are traveling to. However, it is necessary to comply with the animal quarantine regulations of the destination country, so please check in advance whether or not your pet can be transported and prepare the necessary documents.

12. TAP Air Portugal

Portugal.TAP Portugalis another airline that is well-liked by travelers with pets.Dogs and CatsIf you have the necessary documents (vaccination certificate, import/export permit, etc.), you can fly with your dog or cat into or out of Europe.

Only small pets weighing up to 8 kg including cage can be carried in the cabin; larger pets must be transported in the cargo hold. Pet fees vary depending on the route. For example, domestic flights within Portugal start at 35 euros, while intra-European and North American flights cost around 150 euros. The relatively inexpensive rates make it easy to use, especially for travelers who want to travel with their pets within Europe.

I used TAP when traveling within Portugal. I had a chihuahua with me and the process was easy and the fare was reasonable at 35 euros. I would highly recommend TAP for any domestic transportation within Portugal.

On the day of boarding, you will need to arrive at the airport a little earlier than usual to check in your pet at the check-in counter, where a TAP representative will check the safety of the carrier and the pet's physical condition in advance to ensure that your pet will be comfortable. With a network that extends from Southern Europe to South America and Africa, TAP Portugal is a reliable partner for transatlantic travel with pets.

13. SAS Scandinavian Airlines

ScandinavianSAS Scandinavian Airlineshas a consistent reputation for pet companion services.Dogs and CatsThe transportation in the cabin and cargo hold is available if you make a reservation at least 24 hours prior to boarding.

Small dogs and cats can be carried in the cabin, with additional charges set at about $60 for flights within Northern Europe, $80 for flights to Europe, and $105 for flights to North America. If the total weight of the pet and kennel exceeds 8 kg, the pet will be kept in the cargo hold for a fee ranging from $100 to $300, depending on the route.

The official statement says, "For special pets, please check with us in advance".

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It should be noted that pets are only allowed in Economy Class due to the seating arrangement and are not allowed in emergency exit row seats or bulkhead seats. Also, since there are restrictions on the size and weight of cages that can be placed in the cargo hold depending on the aircraft, it is recommended that you discuss this matter thoroughly in advance if you are traveling with a large dog.

SAS has routes not only to the Nordic countries, but also to other parts of Europe, Asia, and North America, making it a reassuring ally when traveling with your pet from Scandinavia to the rest of the world.

14. British Airways (OpenSkies)

United Kingdom.British Airways (BA)The company in principle does not allow pets in the passenger cabin, but the company used to operate a pet carrier operated as a subsidiary of the company.OpenSkies AirlinesOpenSkies, whose name is no longer heard due to route consolidation, is unique in its pet policy, as it operated primarily on the Paris-New York route.

Dogs and cats weighing 6 kg (13.2 lbs.) or less are allowed in the cabinand the standard was simple: any pet larger than that would be transported in the cargo hold. There was a flat fee for both in-flight companions and checked cargo, and at the time, a flat surcharge of $196 was in place. The rule was that if a pet was to be carried in the cabin, a health certificate or travel document had to be presented to ensure that the pet was in a safe condition to fly.

I traveled with my cat from Paris to New York when OpenSkies was operating. It was very safe because I could bring it in the cabin, but I am sorry to say that I cannot take it in the cabin with me on the current British Airways.

Currently, British Airways itself transports all pets (other than guide dogs and other assistance dogs) via an affiliated cargo company (IAG Cargo), and pets are not allowed in the cabin. Therefore, when traveling with pets on routes to/from the U.K., it is necessary to book a cargo flight in advance, but the OpenSkies flight from continental Europe had the advantage of allowing pets to board in the cabin. British Airways also has a dedicated pet transport team and has a good reputation for safety. If you are planning to fly with your pet on UK routes, please check the latest regulations on their official website and make your plans accordingly.

15. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

The Netherlands.KLM Royal Dutch Airlinesis an airline with many years of experience and expertise in pet-accompanied services. At KLM, known affectionately as "the plane in blue,Dogs and CatsThe flexibility of the system has made it a popular choice for pet owners around the world.

Reservations with pets are not completed online,Pre-registration by phone(If you are coming from Japan, contact the call center.) At that time, you will receive detailed consultation on the size and weight of your pet, conditions of your destination, and other details.

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Pets weighing more than 9 kg or whose cage is too large to fit in the cabin can be checked into the pressurized and air-conditioned cargo hold and transported on the same flight!

The pet fee varies depending on the weight and route. KLM, along with its partner Air France, has a wealth of experience in pet transportation, so you can feel secure on long flights.

KLM's meticulous service is also well received, with document verification and final kennel checks conducted at the pet acceptance counter upon check-in, and airport staff handing over pets directly to you at the arrival point. With KLM connecting Europe and the rest of the world, you can be sure that your air travel with your pet will be comfortable and supported.

Points to consider when choosing an airline

When choosing the best airline for your pet when traveling abroad, there are a few things to keep in mind. Below is a list of criteria to keep in mind if you are flying with your pet for the first time.

Acceptable pet types and sizes

The types and sizes of pets that can accompany you vary from airline to airline. Most airlines allow small dogs and cats to be carried in the cabin, but some (e.g. Frontier Airlines and Turkish Airlines) even allow rabbits and birds. On the other hand, for large dogs, it is safer to choose a full-service airline (e.g., Lufthansa Airlines or Air Canada) that is equipped to transport them in the cargo hold.

In-flight or cargo?

An important distinction is whether you can bring your pet with you in the cabin or only check it in the cargo compartment. Choose an airline that allows carry-on pets if you want to keep them close by at all times on long flights, or choose an airline with a good reputation for pet transportation (whether it has dedicated staff and facilities) if size restrictions prevent them from fitting in the cabin.

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Because of the respiratory risks associated with short-breeds (snub-nosed dogs and cats), some airlines prohibit them from being transported in the cargo hold. If you have a dog breed such as a pug or bulldog, or a Persian cat, we recommend that you choose an airline that allows them to be carried in the cabin!

Additional fees and services

Pet fees vary from airline to airline. If cost is a priority, airlines like Frontier Airlines, which charges as little as $99 one-way, or Air France, which offers a clear, flat-rate fee, are attractive. Others, such as JetBlue's JetPaws, offer kits for passengers with pets and frequent flyer rewards. In addition to price, look for ancillary services as well.

Route Network and Destination Regulations

Some destinations prohibit pets from being carried in the cabin itself (e.g., pets bound for the U.K. or Australia are not allowed in the cabin and must be treated as cargo). Therefore, it is important to choose an airline that is familiar with the regulations of the destination country and can assist you with the necessary documents and procedures. Choosing an airline with a route network that fits your travel plans will ensure smooth travel, including connections.

Reservations and Advance Preparation

The number of seats and pets allowed is limited, so once you have decided on the flight you wish to take, please contact us.Make reservation inquiries to the airline as early as possible.It is also important that each company It is also important that each companyHealth and immunization certificatesetc., to be submitted, so be prepared to work backward from the departure date. For first-time pet flights, it is also effective to practice putting your pet in a cage beforehand to acclimate it, and to exercise it well before boarding on the day of the flight.

When I flew internationally with my dog for the first time, I practiced getting him used to the carry-on case two weeks before departure. At first he didn't like it, but by gradually giving him treats in the cage, he gradually got used to it and was able to stay calm on the day of the flight. I realized that advance preparation is really important.

Based on the above points, please choose the best airline and flight plan for your pet. Even if it is your first time traveling with your pet, you can reduce your anxiety and feel at ease on the day of the flight by researching and preparing well in advance.

Summary & Call to Action

We have listed the top 15 pet-friendly airlines that allow you to travel abroad with your pet. Each airline has its own unique characteristics, and the types of pets they accept and the services they provide vary widely. Please refer to this article to select a pet-friendly airline and make careful preparations. Traveling in the sky with your beloved family pet will surely become an irreplaceable memory.

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The most important part of air travel with pets is advance preparation and early reservations. Especially popular pet-friendly airlines can fill up their slots with pets very quickly! We recommend securing reservations at least one to two months before departure.

To realize your dream of "traveling abroad with your pet," first check the airline's official website for the latest pet policy, and if necessary, inquire at the time of booking. If you have any questions or concerns,Please feel free to consult the pet reception desk of each airline or a professional pet transportation service.The following is a list of the most common problems with the

Be prepared for anything, and enjoy a wonderful trip with your pet with a reliable partner that you can trust. Enjoy a wonderful trip with your pet with a partner you can trust. You just have to take action. We support you and your pet's comfortable flight!

Comparison of types of pets allowed in carry-on baggage

The types of pets allowed in the cabin vary by airline. The chart below compares the types of animals allowed in the cabin on each airline.

Please share your experiences and opinions!

Do you have any experiences or questions about traveling abroad with your pet?

If you have actually experienced this, please share with us the points you took care of in your preparation and any problems you had while traveling. We also welcome questions from those who are thinking of traveling to Japan in the future.

Is it possible to move to this country? How long do I have to prepare?

Please feel free to comment on any concerns you may have, such as

Your comments will be of great help to others who are struggling with the same issues. Please share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below!

References

1. The 20 Most Pet-Friendly International Airlines Ranked - Days to Come
2. American Airlines Pet Policy | Pet Friendly Travel
3. Flying with pets on American Airlines just got easier
4. Air Canada - Travelling with your Pet
5. Air Canada Cargo - AC Animals
6. Air Canada Pet Travel Policy - Bring Fido
7. Delta Airlines Pet Travel: A Comprehensive Guide | PetRelocation
8. Planning to fly with your dog on Air India?
9. Pet Travel FAQs: Guidelines, Restrictions, Health and Permits
10. Air India Pet Travel Policy
11. Air India Airlines Pet Travel Policy - AirPets
12. Air France: Pet Policy - SeatGuru
13. Travel with your pet | Air France, United States
14. Air France Pet Travel Policy
15. Travelling with animals | SWISS
16. Turkish Airlines Pet Policy - PetTravel.com
17. Aeroflot Russian Airlines | The Dog People by Rover.com
18. Turkish Airlines Pet Travel Policy - Bring Fido
19. Frustrated for booking with a Pet : r/TurkishAirlines - Reddit
20. Frontier Airlines' pet policy | The Points Guy
21. Travelling with animals | Lufthansa
22. Aeroflot Airlines Pet Policy | Pet Friendly Travel
23. Tap Air Portugal Pet Travel Policy - Bring Fido
24. TAP Portugal: Pet Policy - SeatGuru
25. Scandinavian Airlines Pet Travel Policy - Bring Fido
26. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) flying with pets - SeatMaestro
27. British Airways Pet Policy | The Caribbean Pet
28. Air France Pet Policy: How To Travel With Your Furry Friend?
29. Flying with a dog or cat in the cabin or hold - KLM United States