Pet Container Requirements for Air Travel
The International Air Transport Association has established rules regarding containers for dogs, cats, ferrets, and birds that are flying. Most of the world’s major airlines follow the Association’s criteria for travel requirements.
Pets can travel in the passenger cabin on flights lasting less than 6 hours, except when traveling to the UK. Only one pet per passenger is allowed. Also, no more than 2 pets are allowed in the same cabin. The pet container must fit under the seat and have a waterproof bottom. Brands, Sherpa, Pet Roll Around and Strurdi are the commonly accepted must-haves for the airline industry. However, since airlines vary, it is important to know the specific requirements of your particular airline.
Most large aircraft have special provisions to accept live animals as cargo. Regardless of whether the pet travels as checked baggage or cargo, they will be kept in the same special area during the trip. This area is pressurized and temperature controlled.
To certify that the pet is in good condition to travel as cargo, an Acclimatization Certificate can be purchased. The animal must be stored in an IATA/APHIS approved container. It is recommended that there be only one animal per container. However, if the animals weigh less than 14 kg, two can share in the container. All crates manufactured by Kennel Aire meet standards for pets traveling as checked baggage or cargo.
There must be enough space for the animal to stand, turn and lie down. The booth must be made of strong plastic and have a secure locking system. Food and water bowls must be attached to the inside of the front door and must be refillable without opening the door. Ventilation on all sides must be present. Additionally, LIVE ANIMALS decals are required to be placed on the top and sides of the box and the font must be more than one inch tall. The pet’s name and owner’s contact information must be attached to the cage. Wheels are not allowed. It is possible to tape the wheels or remove them, so that the cage cannot roll. If your trip is international, an additional copy of the pet’s health certificate must be attached to the box.
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