If you’re a pet owner, the thought of traveling without your furry companion can be stressful and heart-wrenching. Thankfully, many airlines, including Air France, have pet policies in place to make traveling with your pet a little easier. But before you book your next flight, it’s important to understand the regulations and guidelines set by Air France for traveling with pets.
Types of Pets Allowed on Air France
Air France allows both cats and dogs to travel in the cabin, as well as in the cargo hold as checked baggage. Other small animals such as rabbits, birds, and rodents are also permitted to travel in the cabin, as long as they are in an appropriate carrier that meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions.
Size and Weight Restrictions
If you plan to bring your pet in the cabin, they must be small enough to fit in an approved carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions for the carrier are 46cm x 28cm x 24cm (18in x 11in x 9in) and the weight of the pet and carrier combined cannot exceed 8kg (17lbs). Only one pet per passenger is allowed in the cabin. For pets traveling in the cargo hold, the maximum weight allowed is 75kg (165lbs) including the weight of the carrier. The dimensions of the carrier must not exceed 292cm (115in) in length, 235cm (92in) in width, and 150cm (59in) in height.
Health and Documentation Requirements
Before traveling with your pet on Air France, it’s important to ensure that they are in good health and have all the necessary vaccinations. Depending on your destination, there may also be specific health requirements that need to be met. You can check the specific requirements for your destination on Air France’s website or by contacting their customer service. You will also need to obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of your departure. This certificate must state that your pet is in good health and fit for travel.
Booking and Fees
It’s important to note that pets are not allowed on all Air France flights, so it’s best to check with the airline before booking your ticket. You can also indicate that you will be traveling with a pet while booking your flight online. A fee of €125 (approximately $145) each way will be charged for pets traveling in the cabin, while pets traveling in the cargo hold will be charged based on the weight and destination.
Additional Tips for Traveling with Pets
Make sure to arrive at the airport early to allow time for check-in and any necessary paperwork for your pet. – Always have a leash and collar/harness with identification tags for your pet. – If your pet is traveling in the cabin, make sure to bring a comfort item or toy to help keep them calm during the flight. – If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, make sure to provide them with a familiar blanket or toy to help ease their anxiety. – Check the weather conditions for your destination and make sure it’s safe for your pet to travel. Air France has restrictions on pet travel during extreme weather conditions. – If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to contact Air France’s customer service for clarification. Traveling with a pet can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, especially when you have all the necessary information and guidelines. With Air France’s pet policy in place, you can rest assured that your furry companion will be in good hands during your flight. So next time you plan a trip, don’t leave your pet behind, bring them along for the adventure!