Air India’s Updated Pet Travel Policy: What Pet Parents Need to Know

Updated on January 9, 2026

India’s national carrier Air India has rolled out a significant update to its pet travel policy, bringing long-awaited relief to pet parents across the country. The revamped Paws on Board programme now allows cats and dogs weighing up to 10 kg (including the carrier) to travel inside the economy cabin on select domestic and international flights.

This move reflects the growing demand for pet-friendly air travel as Indian families relocate overseas, students move abroad for education, and long-term domestic and international travel becomes increasingly common. For many travellers, the updated policy removes uncertainty, simplifies planning, and makes flying with pets far less stressful than before.

1. In-cabin travel for small pets

Cats and dogs up to 10 kg (pet + carrier) are now permitted to fly in the economy cabin on approved routes. Availability depends on aircraft type and destination-specific regulations, but the change allows small pets to stay close to their owners throughout the journey.

2. Shorter advance booking timeline

The advance booking requirement has been reduced from 72 hours to 48 hours before departure. While document verification is still mandatory, the shorter window offers greater flexibility for last-minute or urgent travel plans.

3. Wide network of eligible routes

The revised policy covers over 80 domestic and international routes, including destinations across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America. To ensure passenger comfort, only two pets are allowed in the cabin per flight.

4. Seating and onboard supervision

Pets travelling in-cabin are assigned last-row aisle seats in economy class. Animals must remain inside their carriers at all times, which should be placed under the seat in front for easy monitoring by cabin crew.

5. Approved carrier guidelines

Only soft-sided, well-ventilated, leak-proof carriers are permitted in the cabin. The maximum allowed size is 17 × 10 × 9 inches. Hard-shell crates are not allowed for in-cabin travel, and pets should be comfortable staying in confined spaces for the duration of the flight.

6. Rules for larger pets

Pets weighing 10–32 kg must travel as checked baggage in IATA-approved hard-case crates. Animals weighing over 32 kg are accepted exclusively through cargo services, subject to additional regulations and documentation.

7. Clearly defined pet travel fees

The updated policy introduces transparent, standardised pricing:

• In-cabin (domestic): ₹7,500
• In-cabin (short-haul international): USD 140
• In-cabin (medium-haul international): USD 160
• Checked baggage (domestic): ₹16,000
• Checked baggage (international): USD 350

All charges are non-refundable once the booking is confirmed.

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How to Book Pet Travel with Air India

Pet parents must submit a request through official booking offices or customer support at least 48 hours before departure. Required documents typically include vaccination records, a fit-to-fly certificate, and any destination-specific permits.

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A Positive Shift for Pet-Friendly Travel in India

With defined weight slabs, clearer guidelines, transparent fees, and in-cabin access for small pets, this revised policy marks a major step forward for Indian aviation. For those planning travel in 2025–2026, flying with furry companions is now more predictable, comfortable, and practical than ever before.