Most pet owners want to travel with their furry babies on flights. But if you want to fly with your pet in India, only two airlines allow pets in the cabin — Air India and Akasa Air. Every other airline in India either doesn't allow pets at all or only carries them as cargo.
New to flying with pets? Visit the beginner's guide to pet air travel.
Air India — In-Cabin Pet Policy
Cabin weight limit (pet + carrier) : Up to 10 kg
Carrier size : 17" L x 10" W x 9" H
Domestic cabin fee : ₹7,500
Booking window : At least 48 hours before departure
Minimum pet age : 8 weeks
Health/vaccination certificate : Issued within 7 days before departure
Indemnity form : Required, verified at airport check-in
Pets allowed in cabin per flight : 2
Akasa Air — In-Cabin Pet Policy
Cabin weight limit (pet + carrier): Up to 10 kg
Carrier size : 19" L x 12.6" W x 10" H
Domestic cabin fee : ₹7,500 (inclusive of taxes)
Booking window : At least 24 hours before departure
Minimum pet age : 3 months
Health/vaccination certificate : Issued within 72 hours before departure, valid for 15 days
Indemnity form : Required, filled and carried on travel day
Pets allowed in cabin per flight : 2
What Stays the Same on Both Airlines
- Your pet must travel inside a soft-sided, well-ventilated, leak-proof carrier.
- The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, and stay closed for the entire flight.
- Only domesticated cats and dogs are eligible . No exotic pets.
- Pregnant pets or pets that gave birth recently are not allowed to fly.
- Pets over the cabin weight limit must travel as checked baggage or cargo instead.
Step-by-Step: Booking Your Pet's Flight
- First book your own ticket, then submit a pet travel request to include your pet in the booking.
- Confirm the booking window. Air India needs 48 hours' notice, Akasa needs 24 hours. Book earlier during busy travel seasons since only 2 pets are allowed in-cabin per flight.
- Get the health certificate from your veterinarian within the airline's required time frame. For Air India, get it within 7 days of departure. For Akasa, obtain it within 72 hours of the trip (it will remain valid for 15 days after, which is useful if you are on a short return trip).
- Get the right carrier. Double-check the exact dimensions for your airline. If you have a fluffier or slightly larger small breed, then Akasa's cabin carrier allowance is a little larger than Air India's.
- Fill out the indemnity form and carry the required copies.
- Pay the pet fee online, along with your regular ticket.
- Reach the airport early so staff can verify your documents and carrier before boarding.
FAQs
Does the charge apply to all domestic services?
Yes, both airlines charge a flat domestic in-cabin fee, separate from your own ticket cost. International routes have different fee slabs.
Do I need a new vet certificate on each visit?
Yes, but the 15 day period of the validity of an Akasa certificate can sometimes be used for a short round trip. Air India's certificate must be within 7 days of departure each way.
Are there dog breeds not allowed to fly in the cabin?
Yes, flat faced dogs such as pugs, bulldogs and shih tzus are frequently banned or have additional restrictions. Before booking an airline, always check its breed list.
Can I book a pet ticket online, or do I need to call the airline?
Air India and Akasa Air both allow pets to be added via their online booking or pet travel request. You don't need to call, but confirm the pet slot is available since only 2 pets are allowed per flight.
Will my pet be sedated during the flight?
No, airlines don't allow sedated pets to fly, and staff can refuse boarding if a pet seems drowsy or unwell. Vets generally advise against sedation for air travel since it affects breathing at altitude.
Can I sit next to my pet's carrier during the flight?
Yes, your pet's carrier stays under your own seat for the entire flight, so you're right next to them. You can't hold them out of the carrier or let them roam in the cabin.
What happens if my flight gets delayed with my pet onboard?
Your pet stays inside the carrier under your seat just like during the flight, since cabin rules don't change for delays. Take additional water and a puppy pad if you have to wait a long time.
