Travelling with your pet creates a shared adventure experience, but figuring out which airlines allow pets in cabin UK can be confusing due to strict entry restrictions and differing airline policies. In 2025, many UK-based airlines still do not permit pets in the cabin (except assistance dogs), but some international carriers flying from the UK do offer in-cabin pet travel for small animals. If you’re planning to take your furry friend on an adventure, it’s essential to know the latest rules and options.
Which Airlines Allow Pets in Cabin UK?
Several international airlines allow small pets in the cabin on outbound flights from the UK, although UK law prohibits pets from arriving in the country in the cabin. Knowing which airlines allow pets in cabin UK is crucial to planning a stress-free trip.
Many pet owners often ask, “Can I take my dog on a plane?” or “Where do dogs go on a plane?” These are valid concerns, especially if it’s your pet’s first time flying.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Understanding UK Pet Travel Regulations
The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) operates under UK pet travel regulations and establishes some strict rules worldwide to maintain rabies-free status in the country. The UK government does not allow pets to arrive in the country in the cabin. Pets entering the UK must be transported as cargo or in the aircraft hold, even if they are small. However, on flights departing from the UK, some airlines do allow small pets in the cabin under strict conditions.
If you’re wondering, “Can I take my dog on a plane UK?“, the answer is yes, but only when you’re flying out of the country. To travel from the UK, pets must have:
- A microchip for identification.
- A valid rabies vaccination.
- EU destinations and transits (except Ireland) require pets to receive tapeworm treatment between 24 and 120 hours before arrival.
- A pet passport or health certificate compliant with the destination country’s regulations.
The availability of cabin space for pets is restricted to one or two per flight, so passengers need to book early. According to airline policies, the only option for transporting larger pets for flights to the UK is checked baggage or cargo in the hold. If you plan and understand the rules, dog flights can be a smooth experience.
Related: Pet Passport Guide
Airlines That Allow Pets in the Cabin from the UK
Below are the details of each airline’s pet policy for flights departing from the UK in 2025, including whether pets can travel in the cabin as checked baggage or cargo.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Travellers with pets can choose KLM Royal Dutch Airlines because it welcomes both small cats and dogs weighing up to 8 kilograms together with their carriers on flights departing from Heathrow, Manchester, or Gatwick. The soft-sided carrier needs to have maximum dimensions of 46 x 28 x 24 cm to fit under the seat. Customers must book their flights at least 48 hours in advance through the KLM website to pay fees starting at £70 up to £500 one-way, depending on the flight route. The UK government enforces a rule that prevents pets from being in the cabin during UK-bound flights. The airline provides pet cargo transport in their hold for bigger animals while accepting kennels that measure up to 122 x 81 x 89 cm.
Lufthansa
Passengers can bring small pets (up to 8kg together with the carrier) in an authorised carrier into the aircraft cabin when flying from UK airports, including Heathrow or Gatwick. Travellers need to pre-book their flights since cabin space is restricted. The airline prohibits pets in flight cabins during UK-bound flights because pets must travel through the hold as cargo. The airline allows transportation of bigger pets through the hold space with particular crate specifications.
Air France
Air France accepts small dogs and cats weighing up to 8kg with their carriers when passengers travel from UK airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick. Passengers need to reserve their seats at least 24 hours before departure through Air France’s website to bring their pets in soft carriers under the seat. The airline charges different fees depending on destination routes. Flights to Paris via the Eurotunnel become possible through Air France services, which make UK arrivals more convenient. The airline allows pets weighing up to 75kg, including the crate, to travel as cargo in the hold.
Finnair
The cabin pet policy of Finnair accepts small pets weighing up to 8kg along with their carriers on flights from UK airports, including Heathrow and Manchester, as long as they use approved under-seat carriers. The airline enables pet owners to transport pets weighing up to 75kg with their crate as excess baggage within the hold compartment. Advance bookings are required.
Iberia
Pet owners can transport small animals (up to 8kg with a carrier) in the cabin when flying with Iberia from Heathrow or Gatwick airports. The airline requires Iberia passengers to book their flights through their call centre, which involves additional planning steps. Passengers cannot transport their pets as checked baggage during UK-bound or departing flights, but can ship their pets as cargo on specific routes.
ITA Airways
Small pets weighing up to 8kg together with their 2kg carrier can travel in the cabin on ITA Airways flights from UK airports Heathrow and Gatwick. The airline requires customers to book their flights by phone but does not permit pet travel in the cabin when heading to the UK. The airline allows larger pets to travel through the hold as cargo.
KM Malta Airlines
KM Malta Airlines enables passengers to bring pets inside the cabin (including 10kg of animal weight with carrier) when flying from Heathrow to Malta. Passengers travelling to the UK must ship their pets through the hold section of the aircraft. Travellers need to make their bookings in advance.
LOT Polish Airlines
The airline allows pets weighing up to 8kg, including carrier, to travel in the cabin on flights from Heathrow and Gatwick airports for a fee of €65 on European routes. The airline does not permit pets to travel in the cabin on UK-bound flights, but permits larger pets to travel through the hold as cargo.
TAP Air Portugal
Pet owners need to obtain approval from Portugal’s Veterinary Directorate-General before booking flights according to TAP Air Portugal’s 2025 policy. The airline used to permit small pets (up to 8kg with a carrier) to accompany their owners in the cabin when departing from UK airports. The hold serves as a cargo area for pets traveling to the UK and larger pets as well as pets traveling to the UK.
Air Canada
Pet owners can bring their pets inside the cabin on Air Canada flights from Heathrow, Manchester, and Edinburgh airports without weight restrictions, but must comply with carrier size rules based on aircraft types. The airline permits both checked baggage and cargo transportation for pets in the hold section.
Air Transat
The airline Air Transat enables pet transportation in cabin spaces (max 10kg including carrier) during Manchester and Glasgow flights, although London Gatwick does not accept pets. The airline transports bigger pets through their cargo service, but customers need to book their pets ahead of time.
El Al Airlines
El Al Airlines enables pet travel in airline cabins for small animals weighing up to 9kg, including their carriers, on flights departing from Heathrow and other UK airports through permit requirements. The airline provides cargo transportation services for bigger pets to travel in the hold compartment.
Are There Any UK Airlines That Allow Pets in the Cabin?
Generally, no. All pet carriage is forbidden for the cabin sections of UK airlines except for assistance dogs, which are registered. The pet policy of British Airways restricts pets from being carried in the cabin, while pets can travel through IAG Cargo. Exception: SUN-AIR (a franchise partner) allows pets up to 6kg in a cabin on select European routes. Virgin Atlantic prohibits both cabin pet transport and pet transport in cargo.
The pet policy of easyJet, Ryanair, and Jet2 only permits assistance dogs to travel on particular routes. Loganair allows pets as checked baggage on domestic flights (not cabin), up to 32kg.
Skybus: The Rare Exception
The UK domestic travel exception exists only through Skybus. Passengers with dogs can bring their pets inside airline-approved crates to the Isles of Scilly when flying from Newquay or Land’s End. This is a niche, regional option—ideal if you’re staying within the UK.
Where Do Dogs Go on a Plane?
The pet-friendly airlines of the UK allow pets under the seat, but only if they meet their approved airline requirements. The airline requires you to bring a soft-sided carrier that fits their size requirements.
All pets need to travel by air cargo when entering the UK territory and for flights that transport larger animals. This area is:
- Pressurised and temperature-controlled.
- Pet safety is guaranteed in this area.
The air cargo partners IAG Cargo and others provide airline customers with access to this area.
Air Canada, KLM, and Lufthansa provide superior cargo services with strict safety standards.
What’s the Best Workaround for Bringing a Pet into the UK in a Cabin?
Travellers who wish to bring pets with them to the UK cannot directly fly pets into the cabin space, so they follow this solution:
- Fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport CDG or another EU airport that welcomes pets.
- You can reach the UK with your pet through driving with your pet inside the Eurotunnel or by using a pet taxi service.
- Use pet transport companies to facilitate the final leg of your journey.
The chosen method keeps your pet by your side throughout the flight while protecting it from the stressful experience of hold travel.
Tips for Flying with Your Pet
When planning properly, flying with pets becomes both safe and stress-free. The following steps will guide you through a successful flight:
- Check Airline Pet Policies
Check for the latest pet travel rules by visiting airline websites or through their customer support channels. Each airline has unique limitations regarding carrier sizes, together with different payment structures and documentation requirements.
- Book Early
The maximum number of pets allowed on each flight stands between one and two animals. Reserve your pet’s airline travel position after you have booked your flight.
- Prepare Documentation
- Microchip
- Rabies vaccination
- Pet passport or AHC
- Tapeworm treatment (for EU destinations)
- Choose the Right Carrier
A soft-sided carrier that meets airline requirements should be used when travelling with your pet inside the cabin. The carrier should provide your pet with enough space to stand and turn around, as well as lie down.
- Get Your Pet Used to the Carrier
Start exposing your pet to the travel crate at least four weeks before the trip. Place your pet’s comfort items, such as their favourite blanket and toy, inside the carrier.
- Watch Meal Timing
Your dog should eat 4–6 hours before flying since this helps minimise nausea during the trip. Avoid giving your pet too much food when you are about to take off.
- Arrive Early
Pet owners must arrive at the airport 2–4 hours before their flight because pet check-in processes require additional time. Set aside time to complete extra paperwork and undergo security checks.
- Consult Your Vet
Last but not least, consult your Vet. Your veterinarian needs to confirm whether your pet meets flying requirements, specifically for senior animals or those with anxiety issues. He will help you determine if your pet needs travel sedation based on your situation.
Can Dogs Go on Planes? Yes—With Planning and the Right Airline
So, can dogs go on planes? Absolutely. Several airlines operating between the UK, Europe, and North America allow passengers to bring their small dogs inside the cabin. The correct documentation, combined with appropriate crate safety, enables the transport of larger pets in the hold section. The Eurotunnel serves as a travel alternative for returning to the UK because it bypasses cabin pet restrictions.
The process of flying with dogs becomes possible through proper preparation and appropriate research, along with suitable travel routes.
Ready to Travel With Your Pet? Let Pet Taxi Express Help!
At Pet Taxi Express, we make dog flights and pet travel from the UK simple and stress-free. Our mission is to provide pets with safe and legal transportation while ensuring maximum comfort during their journey. Our expert team at Pet Taxi Express provides complete support from airport policy navigation to health certification assistance and international dog flight booking.
Related: Animal Health Certificates
Reach out to us right now to begin organizing your pet’s upcoming travel, since your pet deserves the same high-end experience as you do.
