IATA issues guidance to help airlines improve in-cabin pet travel

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released new operational guidance to support airlines in managing in-cabin pet travel at every stage of the journey from booking to check-in, boarding, the on-board experience, and arrival.

It follows IATA’s recently launched Guidance on Travelling with Service Dogs, reflecting a broader effort to improve consistency in the transport of dogs by air.

“A pet is a much-loved member of the family. People traveling with their pets need clear guidance on what to expect at every step of the journey. That’s important because well-prepared travelers and industry-wide best practices enable airlines to deliver a safe, consistent, and efficient experience for those traveling with their pets,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo, in a press release.

IATA’s 2025 Global Passenger Survey found that about a quarter of respondents have or would consider traveling with a pet. 

Of these:

• 41% cited uncertainty around pet eligibility as a challenge,
• 36% were unsure about airline policy, and
• 34% were unsure about the overall process of traveling with a pet.

IATA says its new In-Cabin Operational Guidelines address these concerns with recommended procedures to deliver a more predictable experience while maintaining safety, animal welfare, and operational efficiency. 

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