Published on September 29, 2025
Looking for pet-friendly airlines? Whether you’re flying with pets for a vacation or arranging a permanent move, your furry family members deserve the same care and comfort as you do. The best airlines for pets go beyond basic rules, offering clear policies, strong safety standards, and reliable support for owners. But what really makes an airline “pet-friendly”? Here are the key things to look for when choosing the safest airline.
1. Pet Safety Policies and Procedures
Airlines that prioritize pet safety will have strict protocols around aircraft temperature, cabin pressure, and restrictions during extreme weather (e.g., heat embargoes). Look for carriers with a history of strict safe pet travel guidelines.
2. Dedicated Pet Programs or Services
Some airlines go beyond minimum regulations. The best airlines for pets offer pet-specific travel programs, such as climate-controlled cargo holds, priority boarding for pets, or specialized handling teams. These programs showcase a commitment to animal welfare.
3. Staff Training and Expertise
Pet-friendly airlines ensure their staff, both on the ground and in the air, are trained in animal handling, stress reduction, and emergency procedures. Well-trained staff can make all the difference in keeping pets calm and safe throughout their journey.
4. Pet-Friendly Policies on Layovers and Connections
Does your pet’s travel route have a layover or connecting flight? Look for pet-friendly airline layovers that allow safe, monitored pet transfers at hub airports, with facilities or staff available to check on animals during long waits.
5. Veterinarian and Regulatory Compliance
Pet-friendly airlines understand and support compliance with veterinary health certificates, import/export regulations, and breed-specific restrictions, reducing the risk of last-minute issues.
Quick Guides to Pet Travel Policies
Searching for answers to your pet travel questions can be overwhelming. To help reduce the information overload, we’ve put together some helpful guides on airline policies, IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations, and frequently asked questions. Click any of the links below to learn more.
- Southwest Airlines Pet Travel Policy 2025
- Delta Airlines Pet Travel Policy 2025
- Alaska Airlines Pet Travel Policy 2025
- American Airlines Pet Travel Policy 2025
- IATA Pet Travel Regulations
- IATA Guidance For In-Cabin Pet Policies
- Which Airlines Ship Cats?
- Can My Pet Fly In-Cabin With Me?
- Is It Safe for Cats and Dogs to Fly In Cargo?
- How to Move Your Dog or Cat Internationally
Final Thoughts
Don’t settle for the bare minimum. The most pet-friendly airlines put safety, comfort, and compliance first, helping to make safe travel possible for cats, dogs, and other animals. Still unsure which airline is right for you? At WorldCare Pet, we specialize in pet relocation services that simplify every step of pet travel. From paperwork to safe arrival, we’ve got you covered so that your pet can move with you stress-free. Find out more about our services here or request a free quote today.
Kaitlyn Reid is a Marketing Assistant at WorldCare Pet, where she helps share stories, tips, and guidance for smooth pet relocations worldwide. A devoted dog mom to Piper, she combines her love for animals with her marketing expertise to connect pet parents with the information they need for stress-free moves. Her goal is to make every transferee’s journey as seamless and reassuring as possible.