Travelling with pets has often been a challenge, but changes may be on the horizon for pet owners.

A major airline has been working toward introducing pet-friendly flights, and though the process has taken time, a new service could soon allow small pets to travel alongside their owners on select routes.

If successful, this move could make air travel more convenient for pet lovers and set a new standard for domestic flights.

The concept of pets travelling in the cabin is not new globally, but it is a significant innovation for Australian air travel.

Virgin Australia's commitment to making this service available reflects a growing trend of pet inclusivity in travel and a response to the high demand from pet owners.

According to Virgin Australia, 'almost 70 per cent of Australian households have a pet,' highlighting the potential impact of this service on a substantial portion of the population.

Pet-friendly rows for small cats and dogs are being introduced on select Virgin Australia flights. Credit: Ryan Fletcher / iStock

The airline's plans, first announced last year, have been in the works to ensure compliance with regulations and guarantee a safe and comfortable experience for all passengers, whether they're bringing a pet or not.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority's regulations have required Virgin to seek approval, which has proven to be more time-consuming than initially anticipated.

'We have been working hard alongside regulators, industry partners and stakeholder groups to ensure we can offer a compliant, safe and comfortable experience for guests travelling with or without a pet,' a spokesperson said.

'Due to the new nature of this service in Australia, the approval process is taking longer than anticipated.'

Once launched, Virgin Australia will designate two rows on select flights as 'pet-friendly.'

This will allow passengers to travel with their small dogs and cats, provided they are in Virgin-approved soft carriers that weigh under 8kg and can fit under the seat.

To ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, pets must be at least eight weeks old and will not be allowed to roam freely or sit on laps during the flight.

Each passenger will be limited to one animal companion, and an additional fee of $100 to $150 per ticket will be charged for the privilege of bringing a pet on board.

Booking a pet-friendly flight will be a straightforward process, albeit one that requires a call to the Guest Contact Centre. This ensures that all necessary arrangements are made to properly accommodate the pet and owner.

For those concerned about the logistics of travelling with a pet, some airports, including Melbourne and Sydney Airport, have already prepared for the influx of furry travellers by upgrading their pet relief areas.

Initially designed for assistance animals, these facilities will now serve the needs of all travelling pets.

Virgin Australia's Chief Executive, Jayne Hrdlicka, has expressed enthusiasm for the program, noting that pet-friendly flights are 'something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well.'

'Overwhelmingly, our guests tell us they want to travel with their pets, and we are now on a journey to make that a reality,' she said.

The airline's dedication to innovation is evident as it navigates the complexities of introducing such a service in Australia.

As we await further updates on the official launch date for Virgin Australia's pet in-cabin service, it's clear that the airline is paving the way for a new era of travel for pet owners.

This move is not just about convenience; it's about recognising pets' important role in our lives and making it easier for them to be part of our journeys.

Key Takeaways

• Virgin Australia is working on implementing pet-friendly rows on select domestic flights for small cats and dogs.
• The process of gaining regulatory approval is taking longer than expected, delaying the service's launch.
• The airline plans to allow pets in approved carriers weighing under 8kg and over eight weeks old, with conditions to ensure safety and comfort.
• An additional fee will be charged for passengers travelling with pets, and facilities like pet relief areas are being prepared at airports such as Melbourne and Sydney.

How do you feel about the prospect of flying with your furry friends? Are you excited about the possibility of having your pet by your side as you soar through the skies? Please share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments below.

 

[cface59]

I do hope the aircraft used will be flagged as per friendly so it can't be used without thorough cleaning for a normal flight
Some of us have severe reactions to animal hair and dander

 

[Sherza]

I do hope the aircraft used will be flagged as per friendly so it can't be used without thorough cleaning for a normal flight
Some of us have severe reactions to animal hair and dander

Exactly and it will remain in the aircon system as well so even that would have to be given a deep clean

 

[Col@45]

World's gone crazy What next ?

 

[PattiB]

I do hope the aircraft used will be flagged as per friendly so it can't be used without thorough cleaning for a normal flight
Some of us have severe reactions to animal hair and dander

You are so right. I don’t particularly want to be on a flight with pets everywhere.

 

[Kahlan28]

What is this craze about people having to bring their pets with them everywhere they go, when they go to restaurants they bring the dog, when they go shopping they bring the dog and half they time leave it in the hot car while they pop in and do their shopping, so really the dog isn't even with them, they sleep with the dog and now can fly with their pets. Do they really believe this is what their pets want, to be shoved into small spaces for hours?? These are not places animals should be allowed, these pet owners have a serious problem!!

 

[Clancieblue]

Trouble is people can't even control their kids, now we add pets to the mix. Can we please have a flight no pets and no kids and see how that goes down. It would be howled and screamed out of the sky.

 

[Towing]

The only animals allowed in the passenger area of planes are guide dogs and service dogs; also companion cats for people with disabilities..........Over a certain age animals have to have a vet checkup. You can have a pet flown to a destination but they are put in an isolated section of the plane,

 

[Greentrees]

My daughter cannot visit me because she has no one to mind her tiny dog. She cannot drive the long distance alone. This service will be good.

 

[Still Ebby]

l think it's a silly idea and cruel to the dog expecting it to stay under a seat all the time and what if it wants to pee or poo! Who's going to clean that up?
What if it sees another dog and starts a fight and not to mention someone could trip over it.

 

[Towing]

S

My daughter cannot visit me because she has no one to mind her tiny dog. She cannot drive the long distance alone. This service will be good.

She could check with the airline. I know a lady who used to put her cat in a special cage that meets regulations and fly it to the Upper North SA (with a regional airline)

 

[Luckyus]

pets must be at least eight weeks old and will not be allowed to roam freely or sit on laps during the flight. How long will that last?

 

[Mr Chips]

I think the idea is great but the limitations make it difficult for most to avail themselves of it.

 

[Veggiepatch]

Next thing, other animals will demand special privileges.

Such as Muslims wanting a prayer room on flights. Probably already demanding such rubbish.

EDIT: Saudia, Emirates and Qatar Airlines already have this discriminatory facility on some of their routes as well as personal in-flight entertainment screens showing the direction and distance from Mecca.

 

[relljube]

I have 2 dogs and I regularly travel interstate - no way do I want to subject them to the uncomfortable sensation of cabin pressure etc. If my usual friend is not able to come into feed them etc (they stay home) I use the services of a dog visitor who comes in twice a day to feed and spend time with them. She also sends me photos & texts at each visit so I can feel reassured they are OK.
Can you imagine the smell if they have to go woopsies! Bad enough when you have a constantly crying infant, dirty nappy etc, add howling dogs and spitting cats into the mixture and you may as well travel on a country bus in India - know what I'm saying?

 

[Catherines]

No need for anyone to get politically incorrect on this site.

However all pets should have a vet check, within a few days or no more than a week before the flight, because an ear infection could cause a dog or cat to howl with the effects of cabin pressure. That wouldn’t be acceptable to other passengers having to put up with it on the whole flight. It will be as bad as babies and young children crying all the way because of an ear ache or just because…. and no help from the parent/s.

What’s so suddenly objectionable to owners having their pets travel like they have done for years - in pet cages in the aircraft’s baggage section?

 

[Urlaub]

A personalized pet bed is such a great addition to any pet-friendly home! It not only looks cute with their name on it but also provides a comfortable space just for them. My dog absolutely loves his, and it keeps him from sneaking onto the couch! Personalized toys and custom treat jars are also fun ways to add a special touch. What’s your favorite pet product?
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