Flying with Pets in India 2026 — Complete Airline Rules & Tips

Travelling with your furry companion no longer means leaving them behind. Whether you are relocating, going on holiday, or bringing home a new pup, flying with pets across India has become increasingly straightforward — provided you know the rules. This guide covers everything an Indian pet parent needs to know in 2026: airline-specific pet policies, DGCA regulations, required documentation, carrier specifications, costs, and practical tips for a stress-free journey.

DGCA Regulations for Pet Travel in India

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) governs pet transport on Indian airlines. Here are the key regulatory points every pet owner must know:

• Pets are classified as checked baggage or cargo — they are never allowed to roam freely in the cabin or cargo hold.
• Only domesticated dogs and cats are permitted on most Indian carriers. Exotic animals, reptiles, and birds have separate, stricter regulations.
• IATA Live Animal Regulations (LAR) compliance is mandatory for all carriers used on Indian flights.
• Airlines can refuse carriage if the pet appears unwell, aggressive, or if documentation is incomplete.
• Service animals and emotional support animals may have different rules — check with your airline at the time of booking.
• Seasonal embargoes: Some airlines suspend cargo pet transport during extreme summer months (May-June) when tarmac temperatures can endanger animals.

The DGCA mandates that airlines publish their pet carriage policies clearly, and that ground handling teams are trained in live animal handling. If you face any issues, you can file a complaint with the DGCA through their Air Sewa portal.

Airline-Specific Pet Policies in India (2026)

Each Indian airline has its own pet travel policy. Below is a detailed breakdown. Remember — these policies are updated periodically, so always confirm with the airline when you book your flight on happyfares.in.

Air India Pet Policy

Air India has one of the most comprehensive pet travel programmes among Indian carriers. The airline allows pets both in-cabin and in the cargo hold on domestic and select international routes.

• In-cabin: Small dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin if the combined weight of the pet and carrier does not exceed 5 kg. The carrier must be a soft-sided, leak-proof bag that fits under the seat (max dimensions: 46 cm x 28 cm x 20 cm).
• Cargo hold: Larger pets travel in the pressurised, temperature-controlled cargo hold in IATA-compliant hard-shell crates.
• Advance booking required: Pet carriage must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
• International routes: Air India accepts pets on many long-haul routes, subject to destination country import regulations.

IndiGo Pet Policy

IndiGo offers pet transport through its cargo arm, IndiGo CarGo, making it a practical option for pet owners on domestic routes across India.

• Cargo only: As of 2026, IndiGo does not allow pets in the passenger cabin. All pets travel as cargo.
• IndiGo CarGo service: Pets are transported in the pressurised belly hold of the aircraft. You can book through IndiGo CarGo at the airport or via their cargo helpline.
• Crate requirements: IATA-approved hard-shell crate with proper ventilation, absorbent liner, and secure latch. The pet must be able to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
• Weight limits: Maximum 32 kg (pet + crate combined) on most domestic routes.

SpiceJet Pet Policy

SpiceJet provides a well-structured pet transport service that has earned the trust of many Indian pet parents.

• Cargo hold transport: SpiceJet carries pets in the aircraft’s cargo hold on domestic sectors. The belly hold is pressurised and climate-controlled.
• SpiceJet Cargo booking: Pet carriage must be booked through SpiceJet’s cargo department. Advance notice of at least 24-48 hours is recommended.
• Accepted animals: Dogs, cats, and certain small domestic animals. Check with SpiceJet for the full list.
• Documentation: Health certificate, vaccination records, and a signed declaration form are required at check-in.

Akasa Air Pet Policy

Akasa Air, one of India’s newer carriers, has introduced a thoughtful pet travel policy that prioritises animal welfare.

• In-cabin pets: Akasa Air allows small pets (dogs and cats) in the cabin on domestic flights. The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 7 kg.
• Cabin carrier specs: Soft-sided, well-ventilated carrier that fits under the seat. Maximum dimensions of approximately 45 cm x 35 cm x 20 cm.
• Cargo hold: Larger pets can travel in the cargo hold in IATA-approved crates.
• Pet-friendly approach: Akasa Air has trained its crew specifically for handling pet passengers, and the airline provides clear guidelines on its website.

Vistara Pet Policy

Vistara (now part of the Air India group) has maintained a pet-friendly approach and allows pets in both cabin and cargo on select routes.

• In-cabin: Small pets (dog or cat) in a soft carrier weighing up to 5 kg combined are permitted in the cabin.
• Cargo hold: Heavier pets travel in IATA-compliant hard crates in the pressurised cargo hold.
• Advance notice: Minimum 48 hours before departure. Only a limited number of pets are accepted per flight.
• Domestic and international: Pet carriage available on both domestic and select international sectors.

Pet Carrier Specifications — What You Need

Your pet’s carrier is perhaps the single most important element of air travel. Here is what DGCA and IATA guidelines require:

In-Cabin Carriers

• Type: Soft-sided, leak-proof, well-ventilated fabric carrier with mesh panels.
• Typical max dimensions: 46 cm (L) x 28-35 cm (W) x 20-25 cm (H) — varies by airline.
• Weight limit: 5-7 kg (pet + carrier combined), depending on the airline.
• Must fit under the seat in front of you. No overhead bin storage for pet carriers.
• Waterproof base with an absorbent pad inside.
• Secure closure — zippers or clasps that the pet cannot open.

Cargo Hold Crates

• Type: IATA-compliant rigid plastic or fibreglass crate (e.g., airline-approved brands like SkyKennel or Petmate Vari Kennel).
• Size: The pet must be able to stand upright without touching the roof, turn around fully, and lie down with legs extended.
• Ventilation: Ventilation openings on at least three sides.
• Door: Metal grate door with secure latch — no zip ties or makeshift closures.
• “Live Animal” stickers and “This Way Up” arrows must be affixed to the crate.
• Water dish: Attached spill-proof water container accessible from outside (for ground staff to refill).
• Absorbent bedding inside — no loose hay or straw.

Pro tip: Get your pet accustomed to the carrier at home weeks before travel. Leave it open with a blanket and treats inside so your pet associates it with comfort, not confinement.

Required Documents for Flying with Pets in India

Incomplete paperwork is the number one reason pets are denied boarding. Prepare these well in advance:

Domestic Pet Travel Documents

1. Veterinary Health Certificate: Issued by a registered veterinarian within 7-10 days of travel. Certifies the pet is healthy and fit to fly.
2. Vaccination Records: Up-to-date vaccination card showing rabies (mandatory), DHPP/FVRCP, and other core vaccines. The rabies vaccine must have been administered at least 21 days before travel.
3. Fitness-to-Fly Certificate: A vet-signed statement that the animal is in good health, free of contagious diseases, and fit for air travel.
4. Airline Pet Booking Confirmation: Proof that the airline has accepted your pet on the specific flight.
5. Photo ID of the pet (optional but increasingly requested) — a clear photograph showing distinguishing markings.

International Pet Travel Documents

International pet travel from India requires significantly more paperwork. Start the process at least 2-3 months before your travel date:

1. AQCS Export Health Certificate: Issued by the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service under the Ministry of Agriculture. This is mandatory for all pets leaving India.
2. Rabies Titre Test: A blood test (FAVN or ELISA) confirming adequate rabies antibodies. Must be done at an approved laboratory. Required by the EU, UK, Japan, Australia, and many other destinations. The test must be done at least 30 days after vaccination and results take 2-3 weeks.
3. ISO Microchip: An ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip implanted before the rabies titre blood draw. This is mandatory for travel to the EU, UK, USA, and most developed countries.
4. Destination Country Import Permit: Many countries (Australia, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand) require a pre-approved import permit. Apply through the destination country’s agriculture or quarantine department.
5. NOC from AQCS: No Objection Certificate for export. Visit the AQCS office (located at major airports — Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad) with all documents for inspection 2-3 days before travel.
6. Pet Passport: While India does not issue a formal pet passport, some countries accept the EU-format pet passport. Carry all original documents in a waterproof folder.

Breed Restrictions and Banned Breeds

Indian airlines impose breed restrictions for safety and welfare reasons:

• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds: Pugs, English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Pekingese, Boston Terriers, Persian cats, and Himalayan cats are restricted or banned on many airlines — particularly for cargo hold travel. These breeds are prone to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which makes them vulnerable to respiratory distress during flight.
• Aggressive/banned breeds: Pit Bull Terriers, Rottweilers, and Dobermans may face additional restrictions or require muzzling. Policies vary by airline.
• Giant breeds: Very large dogs (Great Danes, Saint Bernards) may only travel as cargo due to crate size requirements.
• Mixed breeds (Indies): Indian native breeds and mixed breeds are welcome on all carriers — no breed discrimination here.

Always verify the specific restricted breed list with your airline when making your booking on happyfares.in.

Domestic vs International Pet Travel — Key Differences

Factor	Domestic (Within India)	International (From India)
Microchip	Not mandatory (recommended)	Mandatory (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies Titre Test	Not required	Required for EU, UK, Japan, Australia, etc.
AQCS Certificate	Not required	Mandatory export health certificate
Quarantine	None	Depends on destination (0-180 days)
Preparation Time	1-2 weeks	2-3 months minimum
Cost (approx.)	INR 3,000 – 15,000	INR 20,000 – 60,000+

Quarantine Rules for International Pet Travel

Quarantine is one of the most anxiety-inducing aspects of international pet travel. Here is a quick overview of quarantine requirements for popular destinations from India:

• USA: No quarantine for dogs with valid rabies vaccination. Cats generally exempt. CDC requires health certificate.
• UK: No quarantine if the pet has a microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and rabies titre test (FAVN). Otherwise, up to 4 months quarantine.
• EU (Schengen): No quarantine with microchip + rabies titre test + EU health certificate. Without titre test, entry may be denied.
• UAE/Dubai: No quarantine with proper documentation and import permit from Dubai Municipality.
• Australia: Minimum 10 days quarantine at the Mickleham Post Entry Quarantine Facility. Extensive pre-export testing required (titre test, tick and tapeworm treatment, etc.). Process takes 6+ months.
• Singapore: 30-day quarantine at Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station for pets from India (India is a Category D country).
• Japan: 180-day quarantine unless microchipped, double rabies-vaccinated, and titre-tested at least 180 days before arrival.

Important: Quarantine rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the destination country’s embassy or agriculture department before making travel plans.

Cost of Pet Transport on Indian Flights

Pet transport costs depend on the mode (cabin vs cargo), pet weight, route, and airline. Here is a general estimate for 2026:

Domestic Routes

• In-cabin (small pets): INR 3,000 to INR 7,000 per sector.
• Cargo hold (medium pets): INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 per sector.
• Cargo hold (large pets): INR 10,000 to INR 15,000 per sector.
• Excess weight surcharge: If the pet + crate exceeds the standard limit, additional per-kg charges apply.

International Routes

• Cargo hold: INR 20,000 to INR 60,000 depending on destination, pet size, and airline.
• Pet relocation agencies: If you use a professional pet relocation service (they handle all paperwork, customs, and transport), expect to pay INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 depending on the destination.

Cost-saving tip: Book your own flight early on happyfares.in to get the best fare, then contact the airline to add pet carriage. This is almost always cheaper than booking through a pet relocation agency for domestic travel.

12 Tips for Stress-Free Pet Travel by Air

1. Visit the vet 2 weeks before travel. Get the health certificate, confirm vaccinations are current, and discuss any anxiety medication if your pet is a nervous flyer.
2. Book early morning or late evening flights. Temperatures are cooler, reducing heat stress — especially important for cargo hold travel in summer months.
3. Choose direct flights whenever possible. Layovers mean longer time in the carrier and additional ground handling. Search for non-stop routes on happyfares.in.
4. Freeze a water bowl. Attach a small bowl of frozen water to the inside of the cargo crate — it melts gradually during the flight, preventing both spillage and dehydration.
5. Do not feed your pet 4-6 hours before the flight. A light meal the night before is fine, but a full stomach increases the risk of nausea and vomiting during the flight.
6. Exercise your pet before heading to the airport. A tired pet is a calmer pet. A 30-minute walk or play session before departure works wonders.
7. Place a familiar item inside the carrier. A t-shirt with your scent, a favourite toy, or a familiar blanket helps reduce anxiety.
8. Label the carrier clearly. Include your name, phone number, flight number, destination, and your pet’s name on the crate — both inside and outside.
9. Arrive at the airport early. Pet check-in takes longer than regular check-in. Arrive at least 3 hours before departure for domestic flights and 4 hours for international.
10. Avoid sedation unless your vet specifically prescribes it. Sedation can cause respiratory and cardiovascular complications at altitude. Natural calming aids (pheromone sprays, calming treats) are safer alternatives.
11. Clip your pet’s nails. Long nails can get caught in crate grates, causing injury and panic.
12. Carry a recent photo of your pet. In the unlikely event your pet gets separated from you, a photo helps airport staff identify them quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I carry my dog in the cabin on Indian domestic flights?

Yes, certain Indian airlines allow small dogs (and cats) in the cabin if the pet plus carrier weighs under the airline’s limit (typically 5-7 kg combined). Air India and Akasa Air are among the carriers that offer in-cabin pet carriage on domestic routes. The pet must remain inside an IATA-compliant soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat in front of you throughout the flight.

What documents do I need to fly with a pet within India?

For domestic pet travel you typically need: a valid health certificate issued by a registered veterinarian (within 7-10 days of travel), up-to-date vaccination records including rabies, a pet fitness-to-fly certificate, and the airline’s completed pet booking form. Some airlines may also require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS).

How much does it cost to fly with a pet in India?

Pet transport charges vary by carrier and route. In-cabin pet fees on domestic flights typically range from INR 3,000 to INR 7,000 per sector. Cargo hold pet transport can cost INR 5,000 to INR 15,000 or more depending on pet weight and route distance. International pet cargo can run from INR 20,000 to INR 60,000 or higher. Always confirm the exact fee with the airline at the time of booking.

Are brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds allowed on Indian flights?

Most Indian airlines restrict or ban brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Persian cats from flying — especially in cargo hold — due to their higher risk of respiratory distress at altitude. Some airlines may allow them in-cabin on short domestic flights with veterinary clearance, but policies vary. Always check the specific airline’s restricted breed list before booking.

Do I need quarantine when flying with a pet from India to another country?

It depends on the destination country. Countries like the UK, Australia, Singapore, and Japan have mandatory quarantine periods ranging from 10 to 180 days. The EU and USA generally do not require quarantine if your pet has valid rabies vaccination and an ISO-compliant microchip. You will need an export health certificate from AQCS in India, plus any destination-specific import permits. Start the paperwork at least 2-3 months in advance.

Can I book a flight with my pet on HappyFares?

Yes! You can book your flight on happyfares.in and then contact the airline directly (or reach out to HappyFares support) to add pet carriage to your booking. Since pet bookings often require advance notice and confirmation of space availability, it is best to book your ticket first on HappyFares and immediately follow up with the pet travel request so the airline can allocate space.

Final Checklist Before You Fly

Flying with pets in India is entirely manageable when you plan ahead and follow the right steps. Start by booking your flight on happyfares.in, confirm pet carriage with the airline, gather your documents, and prepare your pet for the journey. With the right preparation, both you and your furry companion can have a smooth, comfortable flight.

Have questions about flying with your pet? Reach out to us at happyfares.in — we are happy to help you plan your trip.