Which Airlines Ship Pets Internationally?
International pet air travel falls into two categories: in-cabin (small pets only, typically under 8–10kg including carrier) and cargo hold (larger pets traveling as checked baggage or manifest cargo). Not all airlines offer both, and policies change frequently.
Here are the top airlines known for reliable international pet shipping, along with key details on their policies.
Top Airlines for International Pet Shipping
Lufthansa
Lufthansa is widely regarded as one of the most pet-friendly international carriers. They accept pets in cabin (small dogs and cats) and in the hold via their dedicated Lufthansa Cargo Animal Lounge in Frankfurt — one of the most sophisticated animal handling facilities in the world.
- In-cabin: Up to 8kg (including carrier)
- Hold: Accepted on most international routes
- Breed restrictions: Snub-nosed breeds accepted with conditions
- More info: Lufthansa Pet Travel
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM allows small pets in cabin on most European and some intercontinental routes, and accepts larger animals as cargo. They have clear documentation requirements and a reputation for reliable handling.
- In-cabin: Up to 8kg on European routes
- Hold: Available on most routes
- More info: KLM Pets Policy
Air France
Air France accepts pets in cabin (up to 8kg) and in the hold on international flights. They have a solid track record for pet handling and offer guidance through their dedicated pet travel pages.
- Hold: Up to 75kg (dog + crate combined) on most routes
- More info: Air France Animals
Emirates
Emirates does not allow pets in the cabin but accepts animals as cargo through Emirates SkyCargo. They have extensive reach across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, making them a key option for complex international routes.
- In-cabin: Not permitted (except service animals)
- Cargo: Available via Emirates SkyCargo
- More info: Emirates Pet Travel
Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways allows small pets in cabin on certain routes and accepts larger animals via cargo. Their Doha hub makes them a popular option for routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
- In-cabin: Up to 7kg on select routes
- More info: Qatar Airways Animals
Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines accepts pets as manifested air cargo (not as baggage) through Singapore Airlines Cargo. Known for excellent animal handling standards.
- In-cabin: Not permitted
- Cargo: Via SIA Cargo only
- More info: Singapore Airlines Animals
Airlines That Do NOT Accept Pets
Some major carriers have suspended or permanently ended pet transport. Always verify current policy before booking. As of 2025, Spirit, Frontier, and several budget European carriers have restrictions worth checking in advance.
Using a Pet Relocation Service
If navigating airline policies feels overwhelming, a professional pet relocation service will handle everything — booking, documentation, crate compliance, and airport coordination.
- Starwood Pet Travel — works across all major carriers
- PetAir UK — specialists for UK-origin international moves
- Jet Pets — Australia and Pacific routes
Key Tips Before Booking
- Always call the airline directly to confirm current pet policy — websites are often outdated
- Book your pet's space at the same time as your own ticket — spots are limited
- Check IATA crate size requirements for the specific aircraft on your route
- Ensure all documentation is complete at least 10 days before departure
- Consider travel insurance that covers pets
