Pet owners rejoice! National Pet Day, celebrated on April 11, is a day to shower your beloved pets with extra love and attention. For those planning to travel with their furry companions, it’s essential to choose pet-friendly airlines that prioritise the safety and comfort of your four-legged friends. In India, several airlines cater to pet passengers, offering specialised services to ensure a stress-free journey for both pets and their human companions. Let’s explore which airlines stand out as pet-friendly options.
Vistara:
Vistara extends its hospitality to furry travelers as well. According to information gleaned from their website, Vistara welcomes pets as checked baggage on select flights within India. However, certain restrictions and conditions apply, such as adherence to weight and size limitations and the provision of necessary health certificates. Pet owners are encouraged to contact Vistara’s customer service for detailed guidelines and assistance regarding pet travel arrangements.
Akasa:
Akasa Air, a newcomer in the Indian aviation industry, is dedicated to providing inclusive services tailored to diverse passenger needs. Traveling with pets can be enriching, but it demands careful planning. With Pets on Akasa, you can bring your furry companions on board, whether in the cabin or cargo compartment. This service is currently available on domestic flights within India for cats and dogs aged three months or older. To ensure a smooth journey, it’s advised to book pet travel at least 48 hours before departure. Additionally, obtaining a validated vaccination and health certificate from a registered veterinarian within 72 hours of travel is essential. This certificate remains valid for up to 15 days from issuance, aligning with safety standards and regulations.
Meet the Jagdale family, the faces behind India’s first single malt whisky Amrut; Know how they created liquor that costs Rs 70,000, their net worth, and more
Who is Guruji and why is he so famous? Here’s the story behind Jacqueline Fernandez and Rishi Kapoor’s spiritual Guru
Who is Sukesh Chandrashekhar? Know who all he conned and how he ran Rs 200 crore extortion racket from Tihar jail; here’s about his ladylove and how he earned money
Meet Jai Anmol Ambani: The eldest son of Anil Ambani and how he is keeping up with legacy of his grandfather Dhirubhai Ambani, his net worth and taste for luxury
Air India:
If you’re planning to fly with your pet on Air India, here’s what you need to know. To make a booking for your furry friend, simply bring them to the check-in counter with the necessary travel case and paperwork to purchase a ticket. Alternatively, bookings can be made at Air India’s airline or city ticketing offices. It’s important to book the flight at least 72 hours before departure for pets traveling in the cabin, and multi-city bookings are not allowed for pet travel. Charges for traveling with pets include standard excess baggage fees based on weight or piece, and these charges depend on factors such as the weight of your pet, the weight of the container, and any additional belongings. Air India welcomes domesticated dogs and cats in both the passenger cabin and the cargo hold, subject to approval. Certain breed restrictions apply, and pets must meet age requirements and have the necessary health documentation. Pet carriers must meet specific size requirements, and labeling each carrier with the pet’s name is advised for safety reasons. Sedation of pets is not recommended, and food items are not allowed inside the container. Ensure you have all required documentation, including vaccination and health certificates, and be aware of any additional requirements for international travel with your pet.
IndiGo:
IndiGo, renowned for its extensive network and budget-friendly fares, also accommodates furry companions on its flights. According to their website, IndiGo permits pets to travel as checked baggage, subject to applicable terms and conditions. Pet owners are advised to review IndiGo’s pet travel policy, which outlines specific guidelines pertaining to crate specifications, documentation, and other pertinent details. For any queries or assistance related to pet travel arrangements, customers can contact IndiGo’s dedicated helpline.
Before making travel plans with your pets, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and familiarize yourself with the pet policies of different airlines. While some airlines may permit pets as checked baggage, others may offer more extensive pet travel options, such as cabin accommodation for smaller animals. Additionally, it’s advisable to book your pet’s travel well in advance and ensure compliance with all requisite regulations to avoid any last-minute complications.
On National Pet Day and every day, let’s prioritize the well-being and happiness of our furry companions, whether at home or on the go. With the availability of pet-friendly airlines in India, pet owners can embark on journeys with their beloved pets by their side, creating unforgettable memories together.