I have spent years traveling across the globe with my best friends. My poodle, Bentley, and my dachshund, Schnitzel, are the best travel partners. We have seen the Eiffel Tower and the canals of Amsterdam together. I know that many of you want to do the same. It is not always easy to plan these trips.
However, it is always worth the effort. You just need to know which carriers treat your pets like family. I have put together this guide to help you find the most pet friendly airlines in europe. I will share my personal stories and the latest rules for 2025 and 2026.
First of all, you must understand that every airline has different rules. Some airlines are great for small dogs. Others are starting to welcome big dogs into the cabin. Space is limited. Rules are strict. But the joy of having your pet at your feet is huge. Plus, it is much safer than the cargo hold for many breeds. Therefore, I want to show you the top options for dog friendly flights in europe.
1. ITA Airways: The Leader of the Italian Revolution
I must start with ITA Airways. They are the flagship carrier of Italy. They have changed the game for everyone. Recently, Italy updated its air travel rules to allow large and medium-sized dogs to fly in the cabin. This is a massive win for pet parents.
On domestic flights within Italy, dogs can now weigh up to 30 kilograms in the cabin. This is a huge increase from the old limits. I remember when I had to worry about any dog over 8 kilograms. Those days are gone in Italy. These larger dogs must travel in certified carriers. You must secure the carrier to a seat that you purchase next to you. The total weight of the dog, the carrier, and your luggage cannot exceed 84 kilograms. This is roughly the weight of an average human passenger.
It is also important to note their regular rules. For international flights, the limit for Pet-Friendly Airlines in Europe is usually lower. On these routes, ITA Airways allows pets up to 10 kilograms including the carrier. On domestic Italian flights that do not use the new “big dog” rule, the limit is 12 kilograms.
The price for this service is reasonable. You will pay about €73 for a domestic flight in Italy. If you are going to North America, the price is about €210. I always suggest that you book at least 48 hours in advance. You cannot check in online when you have a pet. You must go to the airport desk so they can check your paperwork.
2. Vueling: The Best Low-Cost Option
I often hear people say that budget airlines do not allow pets. That is true for Ryanair and Wizz Air. However, Vueling is the big exception. They are a Spanish airline and they are very friendly to pets. They allow dogs, cats, birds, and even turtles in the cabin.
The weight limit for Vueling is 8 kilograms. Some sources say it was 10 kilograms, but it was reduced to 8 kilograms in June 2023 for operational reasons. I suggest that you book your pet’s spot as soon as you buy your ticket. They only allow five pets per flight. If you wait too long, the spots will be gone.
Fees for Vueling are very clear. You will pay from €50 for domestic flights within Spain. International flights and trips to the Canary Islands start at €60. Plus, I have had a few nice surprises with them. When the flight is not full, the crew sometimes gives me a seat with extra space. It is not guaranteed. But it is a very nice bonus!
3. Lufthansa: The Gold Standard of Care
If you want professional service, Lufthansa is the way to go. I have flown with them many times. They even allow two small pets in the same carrier if they fit comfortably. This is great if you have two small cats or tiny dogs.
The weight limit for the cabin is 8 kilograms. The carrier must be a soft-sided bag. It cannot be larger than 55 x 40 x 23 centimeters. If your pet is larger, they must go in the cargo hold. I know that sounds scary. However, Lufthansa has the Frankfurt Animal Lounge. It is a world-class facility. They have 24/7 care and even quiet zones for cats.
Prices start at about €55 for flights within Europe. For long trips, you might pay up to €110. Additionally, they are very strict about snub-nosed breeds like pugs or bulldogs. These breeds cannot fly in the hold because it is dangerous for their breathing. They can only fly in the cabin if they meet the weight rules.
4. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Meticulous and Kind
My trips to Holland are always better with KLM. They take pet treatment very seriously. They are famous for transporting zoo animals and delicate fish. They even have a dog-walking service at their animal hotel in Amsterdam Schiphol. Imagine that! Your dog can stretch its legs during a long layover.
The cabin weight limit is the standard 8 kilograms. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. I found that their check-in staff are very careful. They will weigh your pet and the bag together. Do not try to sneak in an extra kilogram. They will find it.
Fees for KLM vary by route. You should expect to pay between €70 and €500. I recommend that you call them to book. It is often easier than doing it online for complex routes. Plus, they are part of a partnership with Air France and Delta. This makes connections much smoother.
5. Air France: Your Gateway to Paris
Paris is one of the top dog travel destinations in the world. Therefore, Air France is a natural choice. They allow both dogs and cats in the cabin for international and domestic flights.
The weight limit is 8 kilograms. They prefer a soft-sided bag for the cabin. If you do not have one, you can actually buy a carrier on their shopping website. I love that they treat pets as part of the customer family. However, you cannot fly with a pet in Business class on long-haul flights. The seats are designed in a way that there is no space under the seat for a carrier.
Fees start at €70 for flights within France. For flights within Europe, it is about €75. If you are flying across the ocean, the cost is around €200. They are a great choice for pet friendly flights in europe.
6. Air Europa: A Policy for All Creatures
The Air Europa pet policy is one of the most inclusive I have ever seen. They do not just allow dogs and cats. You can also bring birds, fish, aquarium turtles, and even rodents like hamsters or guinea pigs. This is very rare in the airline world.
On short and medium flights, they allow pets in the cabin if they weigh up to 10 kilograms with the carrier. The pet itself should not be more than 8 kilograms. For long-haul flights, only dogs and cats are allowed. I once flew with them and saw a passenger with a small rabbit. It was quite a sight!
Fees are very affordable. For domestic flights in Spain, it is only €35. For flights within Europe and to Africa, the fee is €50. Long-haul flights can cost up to €175. They are definitely one of the best pet friendly airlines europe has to offer.
7. Aegean Airlines: Greek Hospitality for Pets
I have flown with Aegean Airlines twice, and I was very impressed. They are the national carrier of Greece. They are very friendly and they even give you a meal on the flight.
They allow one small dog or cat in the cabin per person. The weight limit is 8 kilograms including the bag. I found their prices to be among the cheapest. You will only pay €35 for a domestic flight in Greece. International flights are €65.
One thing to watch out for is the carrier ventilation. They require ventilation on at least four sides. I have heard of them checking this very closely at the gate. Therefore, make sure your bag is compliant before you go.
8. Finnair: Nordic Comfort and More Species
If you are heading to Northern Europe, Finnair is a great choice. They are very flexible and even allow rabbits, tortoises, and hedgehogs in the cabin from EU countries.
The weight limit for Pet-Friendly Airlines in Europe is the standard 8 kilograms. They suggest that you book your pet at least seven days before you fly. I found their online booking system to be very easy. You can add your pet under “Travel extras” during the booking process.
Fees for Finnair are about €60 for flights within Europe. For long-haul trips, it is €120. Additionally, they usually seat passengers with pets in the rear of the plane. This gives you a bit more privacy and keeps you away from passengers who might have allergies.
9. TAP Air Portugal: The Best Way to Lisbon
I want to visit Lisbon before it changes too much. When I go, I will fly TAP Air Portugal. They are very welcoming to both cats and dogs in the cabin.
Their weight limit is 8 kilograms including the carrier. The bag size is 45 x 30 x 23 centimeters. Fees start at €40 for domestic flights in Portugal. If you are flying within Europe or to North Africa, it is €70.
On top of that, if you are a Miles&Go member, you can earn up to 500 miles when you fly with your pet. Plus, you can even use your miles to pay for the pet fee. This is a great way to save money on your tour.
10. Iberia: A Spanish Giant with Specific Rules
Iberia is another great Spanish airline. They fly all over the world. They allow dogs, cats, fish, tortoises, and birds in the cabin.
The weight limit is 8 kilograms. They are very strict about the carrier. It must be robust and have a leak-proof base. I once heard a story about them refusing a passenger because their bag did not have enough ventilation. Make sure your bag has ventilation on 16% of its surface.
Fees start at €40 for domestic flights in Spain. Flights to Europe and the Middle East are €60. However, they do not allow weasels or ferrets on board. So leave your weasels at home!
11. Turkish Airlines: Singing Birds in the Sky
Can you imagine a bird singing to you while you fly across the ocean? Turkish Airlines makes this possible. They allow small singing birds like parakeets and canaries in the cabin. Of course, they also allow cats and dogs.
The weight limit is 8 kilograms. One unique thing about them is how they handle allergies. If a passenger has a medical report for an allergy, the person who made the first reservation gets to stay on the flight. However, assistance dogs always take precedence over allergies on flights to the USA.
Fees are very low. For domestic flights in Turkey, it is only 70 TRY and up. For international flights, it ranges from $65 to $185. They even have pet-only check-in counters and relief areas with kibble at the new Istanbul Airport.
12. Swiss International Air Lines: Two Pets Allowed
Swiss International Air Lines is very proactive. They officially state that pets are allowed on all routes. They are one of the few airlines that allow you to take two pets with you in the same carrier.
The weight limit for the cabin is 8 kilograms. If your pets are heavier, they must go in the hold. They even allow rabbits and hares to fly in the hold. I found their staff to be very attentive on board.
Fees for domestic flights start at €50. For long intercontinental flights, you will pay about €110. They also permit snub-nosed breeds like Persian cats in the cabin, even though they are banned from the cargo hold for safety.
13. SAS Scandinavian Airlines: A Joint Effort
SAS is the airline for Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. They have a very consistent pet service. Small dogs and cats are welcome in the cabin if you book at least 24 hours in advance.
The weight limit is 8 kilograms. The carrier size is a bit smaller than others, at 40 x 25 x 23 centimeters. I suggest that you use a “Sherpa” style bag because it is more flexible.
Fees vary by route. Domestic flights start at €55. Flights to the USA and Canada are about €99. One important rule is that pets are only allowed in Economy class. They are not allowed in the front row or next to emergency exits.
14. Transavia: Simplicity in Western Europe
Transavia is another low-cost choice that works well. They specialize in flights within Western Europe and North Africa.
The weight limit is 8 kilograms including the bag. It used to be 10 kilograms, so check your pet’s weight carefully. You must keep the bag closed for the whole flight. I read a story about a passenger who was put on a watchlist for three years because they left the bag open a tiny bit. Be careful and follow the crew’s instructions.
Fees are a flat €50 for most flights. For some routes, it can go up to €160. They are a straightforward choice if you are on a budget.
15. Brussels Airlines: Generous for Large Families
Finally, we have Brussels Airlines. They are the flag carrier of Belgium. They are very generous for people with multiple pets. They actually allow up to four dogs per passenger.
The weight limit for the cabin is 8 kilograms. The fees start at €60 for flights within Europe. If you are flying to the USA or Canada, the fee is €100. On top of that, they allow snub-nosed breeds in the cabin if you fill out an extra form.
Essential Requirements for Your Trip
You cannot just show up at the airport with a pet. There is a lot of paperwork. First of all, your pet needs an ISO-compliant microchip. This must have 15 digits. Additionally, your pet needs a rabies vaccination. It is critical that the microchip is implanted before the jab. Otherwise, the jab is not valid.
Inside the EU, you need a Pet Passport. This is a lifelong document. However, if you are coming from the UK or the USA, you need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). This document is expensive. It can cost over £200. It is only valid for 10 days to enter the EU.
Similarly, some countries have extra rules. Finland, Ireland, Malta, and Norway require tapeworm treatment. This must be given between 24 and 120 hours before you arrive. Gradually, you will learn these steps. But for the first time, it is very overwhelming.
Understanding the Costs
Flying with a pet is not cheap. You must budget for more than just the airline fee. I use a simple formula to estimate the total cost:
- Airline Fee: $100 – $350
- Carrier or Crate: $40 – $80
- Health Documents: $100 – $200
- Microchip and Passport: $75 – $150
- Travel Insurance: $30 – $60
On average, you will spend between $345 and $840 for a single trip. Plus, I always add 25 percent to cover hidden fees.
Tips for a Smooth Flight
I have learned some hard lessons over the years. First of all, get your pet used to the carrier at home. Put a familiar blanket or one of your old shirts inside. The smell of home will calm them down.
Secondly, do not feed your pet right before the flight. Flying can cause nausea. However, make sure they have small amounts of water regularly before departure. Finally, always bring extra zip ties for the carrier doors if they go in the hold. It gives you peace of mind that the door will stay shut.
Traveling from the UK to Europe
Pet friendly airlines in europe from uk are a bit different. Because of UK laws, you cannot fly in the cabin into the UK on any commercial airline. However, you can fly in the cabin when you leave the UK on airlines like KLM, Air France, and Iberia.
If you want to return to the UK with your pet in the cabin, your best option is to fly to Paris or Amsterdam and then take a ferry or the Eurotunnel. It takes more time. However, it keeps your pet with you.
FAQ
Which airline is most pet-friendly?
I believe ITA Airways is the leader because they now allow dogs up to 30 kilograms in the cabin for domestic trips in Italy. This is a massive change for people with medium-sized dogs. Vueling is also a top choice because they are one of the few low-cost airlines that allow pets on board. Additionally, Air Europa is very friendly since they allow many types of animals like birds, fish, and even hamsters.
Which airline is best for pets?
Lufthansa and KLM provide the best care because they have world-class animal facilities at their home airports. The Frankfurt Animal Lounge used by Lufthansa has 24/7 care and special quiet zones. Similarly, the Schiphol Animal Hotel in Amsterdam offers a dog-walking service during long waits.
Which French airline allows dogs?
Air France is the most famous French carrier that welcomes dogs and cats in the cabin. You can also fly with Corsair, which allows pets to travel to French overseas areas. Other choices include La Compagnie, which is an all-business class airline, and Twin Jet. Transavia France also allows dogs on its flights.
Can I buy a plane seat for my dog?
Yes, you can do this on certain airlines if your dog is larger. ITA Airways allows you to buy an adjacent seat for a medium or large dog on domestic flights. Other airlines like S7 Airlines, Belavia, and Aeroflot also offer the option to purchase a separate seat for your pet. This helps pets up to 15 or 23 kilograms stay in the cabin.
Which airline lets you fly with a dog?
Most major European airlines allow dogs, including Lufthansa, KLM, Air France, and Iberia. You can also choose Finnair, TAP Portugal, or Aegean Airlines. On the contrary, some budget carriers do not allow any pets.
How can I fly my pet internationally?
You must follow two sets of rules: the country’s laws and the airline’s policy. First of all, your pet needs a microchip and a rabies vaccine at least 21 days before you go. Then, you need a Pet Passport for travel inside the EU or an Animal Health Certificate if you come from the UK or USA.
Is it stressful for dogs to fly?
Yes, flying can be a very exciting or stressful experience for animals. They have to adapt to a new environment and stay in a closed bag for a long time. Therefore, you should train your pet to be comfortable in their carrier at home before the trip.
Which airlines do not allow pets?
Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air are the main airlines to avoid if you have a pet. They generally do not allow any animals in the cabin or the hold. Only certified assistance dogs are permitted on certain routes with these carriers.
Can I fly to Paris with my dog?
You can definitely fly to Paris with your pet using Air France or Corsair. France is actually one of the top destinations for people traveling with dogs. If you are coming from the UK, you might prefer to use a ferry or the Eurotunnel because cabin travel into the UK is restricted.
Conclusion
Traveling with your best friend in Europe is easier than ever if you pick the right carrier. My list of the 15 best pet-friendly airlines in Europe shows that most major airlines like Lufthansa, KLM, and Air France allow small pets in the cabin for fees starting around €35 to €75.
Recent changes in Italy even allow larger dogs in the cabin for domestic flights. However, you must plan early to get the right paperwork, such as a Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate, and follow strict weight limits. Though the rules can be complex, the joy of a shared tour is worth every bit of work.
