Flying with Pets in India
Some airlines allow small cats and dogs in cabin; others only permit pets in cargo with advance booking.
Pets fly only with advance airline approval, health certificates issued within 24–48 hours, and IATA-compliant crates. Small cats/dogs sometimes ride in cabin (usually ≤7 kg including carrier); heavier animals travel in pressurised cargo.
When allowed vs. when not
✅ When it's allowed
- •Acclimate your pet to the crate weeks in advance with short practice sessions.
- •Freeze water in the dish overnight—the ice melts slowly during the flight without spilling.
- •Carry extra pee pads, wipes, and a travel litter tray for long layovers.
🚫 When it's NOT allowed
- •Don’t sedate pets without veterinary advice; many airlines refuse sedated animals.
- •Avoid wire or soft carriers for cargo—they do not meet IATA standards.
- •Do not remove the pet from the carrier inside the terminal unless instructed by security.
Documents are non-negotiable: a fit-to-fly vet certificate, a vaccination card with an anti-rabies shot more than 30 days old, and microchip data plus import/export permits for international travel.
Crates must meet IATA Live Animal Regulations — rigid walls, metal bolts, absorbent bedding, and water cups accessible from outside. Sedation is discouraged because it can affect breathing at altitude.
Common airline pet policies (India)
| Airline | Cabin? | Key notes |
|---|---|---|
| Air India | Yes (≤7kg) | One pet per cabin section, prior approval |
| Vistara | Case-by-case | Requires vaccination + airline consent form |
| IndiGo | No | Only in cargo via approved partners |
Frequently asked questions
Are emotional support animals recognised in India?+
Can rabbits or birds fly?+
What if my pet exceeds the cabin weight limit?+
Related guides
Related rules
Checked bag limits
Domestic economy tickets include 15kg checked and 7kg cabin allowance unless airline offers more.
Fragile packing
Fragile goods allowed but travel at passenger risk. Use hard cases and declare them during check-in.
Gift items
Wrapped gifts may be opened at security. Scissors or cutters hidden inside packages will be confiscated.
Perfume / Deodorant
Cabin limit 100ml per bottle inside a 1L clear bag. Larger bottles go in checked baggage.
Official references
DGCA guidelines — simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.