I have explored the world with my 20-pound French bulldog, Helga. We have traveled from the United States all the way to Amsterdam and the beautiful Canary Islands. I know the stress of a relocation, a military move, or just the simple desire to keep your older or nervous dog close to you.
It is a daunting task to find pet-friendly airlines in cabin unless you know where to look. You might wonder: Which Airlines Allow Dogs in the Cabin in Europe?
First of all, I want to share the big secret about European travel. Most airlines are more restrictive than those in the U.S. regarding weight. Most airlines have an in-cabin weight limit of only 8kg (17.6 pounds), which includes both the pet and the carrier. However, a few gems have a 10kg cutoff. Which airlines allow 10kg dogs in cabin? I will tell you all about those. Plus, I will cover the new generation of airlines that cater specifically to dogs.
The Standard 8kg Weight Limit
The majority of major carriers stick to the 8kg rule. Which airlines allow dogs in the cabin in europe international flights? Most of the big names do. Though the rules are strict, they are clear. First of all, let us talk about KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. They allow one cat or dog per person in the cabin. The combined weight cannot exceed 8kg. The carrier dimensions must be 46 x 28 x 24 cm. Fees range from €50 to €125 depending on the route.
Similarly, Air France follows a nearly identical policy. They allow pets up to 8kg. The fee is €50 for short flights but jumps to €125 for long-haul international routes. Later, you might choose Lufthansa. They are from Germany and are notorious for weighing pets very precisely. Do not try to sneak in an extra pound. Their limit is 8kg with a soft-sided carrier of 55 x 40 x 23 cm. Fees are usually €55 to €110.
Additionally, Iberia allows pets on most flights. However, they do not allow pets in the cabin on flights to or from the UK. Their limit is also 8kg. Brussels Airlines is another option. Their limit is 8kg. Service dogs fly for free. On top of that, Finnair allows pets on most short-haul and some long-haul flights. You cannot bring pets to Hong Kong or Australia on this airline. The fee is €40 to €75.
Gradually, you will see a pattern. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) allows pets for €70 to €80. Condor Airlines charges €49 in Europe and €100 for other international spots. LOT Polish Airlines permits dogs, cats, and even ferrets. Their fee is €60 in Europe and €120 for international flights. Eurowings allows cats and dogs for €40 to €75, but no pets can go to the UK or Ireland.
TAP Air Portugal is a favorite of mine. They allow pets up to 8kg. Fees range from €70 to €200. I once had a disaster with Swiss Airlines, and TAP Air Portugal rescued us. The service was professional and caring. Finally, let us mention Swiss Air. They have an 8kg limit. The fee is €62 to €114.
The 10kg Club: More Space for Your Pup
Sometimes your dog is just a bit too heavy for the 8kg limit. What airlines allow pets in cabin on international flights with a higher weight? There are a few specialized options. Volotea is a budget airline from Spain. They take dogs in the cabin up to 10kg. The fee is €40 to €65.
Additionally, AeroItalia allows pets up to 10kg for a flat fee of €50. KM Malta Airlines also permits 10kg pets for €70. Neos Air from Italy is another great choice. They have a 10kg limit and charge €50 to €120. On top of that, Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas allows 10kg pets for a higher fee of €150. World2Fly also follows the 10kg rule for €150.
ITA Airways has a very interesting recent change. In June 2024, they launched a new offer. On domestic flights in Italy, the limit is now 10kg for the animal plus 2kg for the carrier. This is a total of 12kg. However, on international and intercontinental flights, the weight limit remains at 8kg. This is a huge win for those traveling within Italy.
Private Charters: Big Dogs in the Cabin
If your dog is large, most commercial airlines are not an option for cabin travel. European airlines that allow large dogs in cabin are usually private or semi-private. International airlines that allow large dogs in cabin like Bark Air or K9 Jets are a different world.
Bark Air is a private charter designed specifically for pet owners. Pets sit right with you. There is no weight limit for your dog. There are no extra pet fees because the ticket includes both the human and the dog. Similarly, K9 Jets offers shared private flights between the U.S., Europe, and the Caribbean. There is no weight limit. No carrier is required.
Additionally, Villiers is a private jet company where your dog is free to roam. There are no weight limits and no breed restrictions. No carrier is necessary. Therefore, if price is no object, these are the true big dogs in cabin airlines. Peace of mind. No stress. Pure luxury.
The No-Fly Zones: UK and Ireland Restrictions
You must be careful with specific destinations. The United Kingdom is very strict. What airlines allow big dogs in cabin to the UK? The answer is: none of the commercial ones. The UK does not allow pets in the cabin at all. Zero exceptions. This is due to their rabies-free status. If you fly to the UK, your pet must go as cargo.
However, there is a loophole. You can fly into Paris (Charles de Gaulle) instead. France has no bans on in-cabin pet travel. Later, you can rent a car and use the Eurotunnel to cross the English Channel. Alternatively, a company called Pet Moves can pick you up in Paris and drive you and your pet to the UK. At the Pet Reception in Calais, your pet’s paperwork will be checked.
Similarly, Ireland was once nearly impossible to reach with a pet in the cabin. In 2025 and 2026, this has changed. Airlines like KLM, Air France, and Iberia now allow dogs in the cabin to Ireland. Most stick to the 8kg limit. If your dog is larger, it must go in the hold or as cargo. Do not forget that Ryanair and Wizz Air still do not allow pets in the cabin at all.
Must-Do Preparation Before You Fly
Travel requires a lot of paperwork. First of all, your dog needs a microchip. This must be done before the rabies shot. On top of that, your dog needs a valid rabies vaccination. You must wait at least 21 days after the first shot before traveling. For travel within the EU, you need a European pet passport. This is only for EU residents.
If you are coming from outside the EU, you need a valid EU animal health certificate. This must be signed by an official vet in the country of departure. This is valid for four months within the EU. Additionally, if you go to Finland, Ireland, Malta, or Norway, your dog needs a tapeworm treatment. This must happen between 24 and 120 hours before you arrive.
Before you book, call the airline. Only a certain number of pets are allowed on each flight. Give your dog a bath. Stinky dogs might not be permitted on the plane. Always re-confirm your pet reservation before the flight. Lufthansa requires two printed copies of their transport form at check-in. They also suggest using a harness or a collar.
Real Experience Sharing: The Good and the Bad
I want to share my own stories. I once flew with Vueling. They are a Spanish budget airline. I had a great experience. If the flight is not full, they sometimes give you an extra seat for space. You can book the pet online easily. However, their limit is 8kg.
TAP Air Portugal also treated me well. I flew from Geneva to Lisbon to Dublin. The staff were professional. The Embraer 195 aircraft had the best under-seat space I have ever seen. The flight attendant even brought me cold meats! It was a rescue mission after Swiss Airlines denied my booking at the last minute. Always have a backup plan.
On the contrary, some people have bad luck. One traveler shared a story about Transavia. They were placed on a watchlist because of a dispute about the pet carrier zip being open. The crew said the dog might run off. Therefore, keep the bag closed. Follow every instruction from the crew to avoid trouble.
Summary of Best Options
If you are looking for pet-friendly airlines in cabin, here is a quick list of the best:
- Aegean Airlines: Great for 8kg pets. Fee is €35 to €65.
- Lufthansa: Professional but strict. 8kg limit.
- KLM: Reliable and easy to book online. 8kg limit.
- Volotea: Good for 10kg dogs.
- ITA Airways: Best for travel within Italy with a 12kg limit.
- Bark Air/K9 Jets: The only real options for big dogs in cabin airlines.
Which Airlines Allow Dogs in the Cabin in Europe international routes? Most of the flag carriers like KLM, Air France, and Lufthansa are your best bet. Just remember the weight limits. Always weigh your dog inside the carrier before you get to the airport.
Travel with your best friend is a wonderful thing. It brings joy. It makes memories. Though it requires work, it is worth every second. Safe travels to you and your pup!
Think of the pet carrier like a small tent for your dog. If they cannot turn around or lie down comfortably inside that tent, the “campsite” (the airline) might ask you to leave. Always make sure their little home-away-from-home is the perfect fit.
FAQ
What airlines can you fly with a dog in cabin?
I have found that major carriers like Lufthansa, KLM, Air France, and Aegean Airlines permit dogs in the cabin. Additionally, you can choose budget options like Vueling, Volotea, and Iberia. Smaller regional airlines like Air Corsica and Air Europa also welcome small pets.
Does Wizz Air allow dogs?
No. Wizz Air does not allow dogs or cats on its flights at all. This budget carrier is one of the notable exceptions to the pet-friendly trend in Europe.
Which French airline allows dogs?
Air France is the most famous choice, but you can also fly with Air Corsica, French Bee, and Chalair. Each of these French airlines has specific rules for weight and carrier size.
Does Ryanair allow dogs in cabin?
No. Ryanair strictly forbids pets in the cabin. They only make exceptions for recognized guide and assistance dogs on certain routes.
Can I buy my dog a seat on an airplane?
Yes. I have seen that S7 Airlines, Belavia, and Aeroflot offer this special service. Therefore, your dog can stay in a rigid carrier on a separate seat next to you.
Do British Airways allow dogs?
No. British Airways does not permit pets in the cabin. Your furry friend must travel in the hold as cargo through specialized services.
Does easyJet allow dogs?
No. easyJet does not allow any animals on their flights. The only exception they provide is for registered guide and assistance dogs.
What is the new dog friendly airline?
Bark Air and K9 Jets are the new generation of airlines designed for dogs. They offer shared private flights where pets can sit with you without a carrier.
Which airline is best for dogs?
In my experience, Vueling is one of the best because they sometimes offer extra space if the flight is not full. Lufthansa and KLM are also top-rated for their professional check-in staff and simple booking processes. Additionally, Crazy Daisy Travels highly recommends TAP Air Portugal for its caring crew and spacious cabins.
Can a 50 lb dog fly in a cabin?
No commercial airline allows a dog that large in the cabin. However, you can use private charters like Villiers or Bark Air because they have no weight limits. For commercial flights, a 50 lb dog must travel in the hold or as cargo.
How to get a dog not to bark on a plane?
You should acclimate your dog to their carrier weeks before the flight. Plus, you must ensure your pet is trained to be obedient and calm in public settings. Additionally, you can put a comfort blanket or a favorite toy inside the container to keep them relaxed.
Conclusion
Travel across Europe with your pet is a rewarding journey if you pick the right airline. Most carriers like Lufthansa and KLM enforce an 8kg weight limit, but some gems like Volotea allow up to 10kg. Though the paperwork for destinations like the UK is difficult, you can find loop-holes through Paris or specialized charters like Bark Air. Always call the airline to confirm your spot because cabin space for pets is limited. Simple rules. Happy tails.
