Flying with Your Pet in Europe: Complete 2025 Guide

1. Before booking

• •Check the airline's pet policy (number of pets per flight is limited)
• •Weigh your pet with the carrier — the 8 kg limit is often reached with a larger crate
• •Prepare the EU pet passport (ISO microchip + valid rabies vaccination)
• •Consult your vet: stress, medication, breed restrictions

2. At booking

• •Add your pet as soon as you book (or immediately after)
• •Do not count on adding the pet at the airport — refusal is common
• •Pay the pet fee online or by phone
• •Keep your confirmation with a reference number

3. Required documents

• •EU pet passport (ISO chip + valid rabies vaccination)
• •Recent health certificate from your vet (some airlines require this)
• •Up-to-date vaccination record
• •For non-EU countries: destination-specific documents

4. At the airport

• •Check in at the staffed desk (not a self-service kiosk) with your pet
• •Allow extra time (veterinary check may be required)
• •Your pet must remain in the closed carrier throughout the airport
• •For hold travel: hand the crate to the oversized baggage desk

Can my dog travel in the aircraft cabin?

Yes, if your dog weighs under 8 kg including the carrier and you are flying with an airline that accepts pets in cabin (Air France, Lufthansa, KLM, Iberia, Vueling, Swiss, Austrian, TAP, Transavia). Spots are limited — book as early as possible.

Does Ryanair accept pets?

No. Ryanair does not accept any pets, either in the cabin or in the hold. Only certified assistance dogs are allowed. The same applies to easyJet and Wizz Air. To travel with a pet you must choose a full-service carrier such as Air France, Lufthansa or KLM.

Which breeds are banned from flying?

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as French Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu are banned from the hold by virtually all European airlines. These breeds can generally travel in the cabin if they meet the 8 kg weight limit (pet + carrier).

Do I need a pet passport to fly within Europe?

Yes. The EU pet passport is mandatory when travelling with a dog or cat within the European Union. It must show the ISO microchip and a valid rabies vaccination. Some airlines also require a recent health certificate (issued within 10 days of travel).

What is the maximum carrier size in the cabin?

Dimensions vary slightly by airline, but the standard is approximately 46 × 28 × 24 cm for Air France and KLM, and 55 × 40 × 23 cm for Lufthansa and Swiss. The carrier must be soft-sided to fit under the seat. Always check the exact dimensions with your airline.

Can a large dog travel in the hold?

Yes, the hold is the solution for dogs over 8 kg (with carrier). The crate must meet IATA standards (rigid, ventilated, with urine collection). Confirm the hold is pressurised and temperature-controlled — this is standard on modern commercial aircraft. Avoid this option for brachycephalic breeds.

How much does it cost to fly with a pet?

Cabin fees range from €50 to €200 per journey depending on the airline and destination. Air France charges €70 within France and €125 for European routes. Lufthansa charges €55–€100 within Europe. These fees are in addition to your passenger ticket and do not grant a separate seat.