Air Canada Pet Policy (2025)

Taking Your Furry Friend Further: A Guide to Air Canada Pet Policy

Traveling with your beloved pet? Air Canada makes it possible to bring well-behaved cats and dogs along for the journey. Whether it’s a quick trip or a grand international adventure, understanding Air Canada’s pet policy will help ensure a smooth, stress-free travel experience for you and your furry companion.

Cozy Cabin Companions: Air Canada’s In-Cabin Pet Policy

Air Canada allows small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on most flights, making it a great option for pets who feel comfortable in carriers and enjoy being close to their humans. Here’s what you need to know:

• Size Restrictions: The combined weight of your pet and its carrier must not exceed 22 lbs (10 kg). Your pet must comfortably stand, turn around, and lie down inside the carrier, which will be placed under the seat in front of you.
• Carrier Requirements: The carrier must be well-ventilated, leak-proof, and secure. Ensure it’s large enough for your pet to move comfortably. Check the carrier dimensions with Air Canada when booking to confirm compliance.
• Booking Ahead is Essential: Since in-cabin pet space is limited, pre-registration is mandatory. Contact Air Canada Reservations promptly after booking your flight to secure your pet’s spot.
• Pet Fees Apply: Transporting pets in the cabin incurs a fee, which varies depending on whether your flight is domestic or international. Include this cost in your travel budget.

Traveling in Comfort: Air Canada’s Checked Baggage Pet Policy

For larger pets or those not suited for the cabin, Air Canada offers checked baggage transport. Your pet will travel safely in a climate-controlled cargo hold. Key points include:

• Age Requirements: Pets must be at least 12 weeks old and fully weaned.
• Weight Limitations: The combined weight of your pet and its carrier must not exceed 70 lbs (32 kg) for domestic flights and 100 lbs (45 kg) for international flights.
• Kennel Requirements: Your pet must travel in a sturdy, IATA-compliant kennel that provides enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Check Air Canada’s detailed kennel specifications on their website: Air Canada Pet Policy.
• Temperature Restrictions: For safety, Air Canada may restrict cargo hold transport during extreme temperatures. Verify this policy if traveling in summer or winter.

Important Considerations for Air Canada Pet Travel

• Documentation: Obtain all required health certificates and documentation mandated by your destination country well before departure.
• Advance Booking: Pre-book your pet’s spot early, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Microchipping: While not mandatory for all flights, microchipping your pet is highly recommended for identification in case of unexpected situations.
• Service Animals vs. Emotional Support Animals: Air Canada allows trained service animals for passengers with disabilities. Emotional support animals require pre-approval based on specific documentation. Review the airline’s guidelines to ensure compliance.

Flying with Your Pet in Business Class

Air Canada’s pet policy generally excludes pets from the business class cabin. However, it’s worth contacting Air Canada to inquire about potential exceptions or updates to their pet travel programs.

Planning a Smooth Flight for Your Pet

• Acclimate Your Pet to the Carrier: Introduce your pet to their carrier well in advance by leaving it in a familiar location with a favorite toy or blanket inside.
• Take a Practice Run: Try a short car ride with your pet in their carrier to simulate the travel experience.
• Label the Carrier Clearly: Attach clear identification tags with your contact information and your pet’s name to the carrier.
• Provide Comfort Items: Include a familiar blanket or toy in the carrier to help your pet feel at ease.

Final Thoughts

Air Canada’s pet-friendly policies make traveling with your furry companion more accessible than ever. By understanding the requirements and planning ahead, you can ensure a comfortable journey for both you and your pet.

From booking your pet’s spot early to packing their carrier with care, these steps will help you take to the skies confidently with your furry friend. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions