Procedures and Considerations for Pet Transportation by Airplane

With pet transportation services by air now available from various airlines in recent years, many passengers feel more excited as their "little friends" can join them in exploring scenic spots or reunite with family during holidays. So, what should passengers be aware of to transport pets by airplane? Let Vietjet guide you through the details in the article below.

Passengers can indeed transport pets by air.

1. Information on Domestic Pet Transportation Services

Currently, many airlines in Vietnam allow the transportation of pets on domestic and international flights. Most airlines transport pets in the cargo hold, while a few allow pets to be carried in cages in the cabin.

Vietjet is a domestic airline that offers pet transportation services, accepting dogs and cats to travel with passengers in the cabin under the following conditions:

Pets must be at least 10 weeks old and not pregnant.
Pets must be in good health, disease-free, fully vaccinated, odorless, and not cause discomfort to other passengers. It is recommended that dogs be muzzled to prevent disturbances to other passengers.
A maximum of three pet cages per flight is allowed, with one passenger permitted to bring only one cage, containing one pet per cage.

Vietjet is one of the airlines that allows pets in the passenger cabin.

Maximum Weight (including cage): 7 kg
Cage Dimensions: 35 cm (length) x 30 cm (width) x 20 cm (height). The transport cage must meet certain conditions, such as being made of plastic, metal, hard plastic, welded metal mesh, hardwood, or plywood; it must be smooth, without sharp edges, with sturdy sides to ensure safety and prevent injury to the pet.
The cage must always be securely locked. The bottom of the cage must be made of solid, waterproof material, with an absorbent mat placed at the bottom. The cage must be well-ventilated.
For cages with wheels, the wheels must be removed or retracted before the flight.
Cages must be placed on the cabin floor, in front of the passenger's seat.

The cost for domestic pet transportation services with Vietjet Air is 4,000,000 VND per cage with one pet (excluding VAT). This service is applicable to all ticket types, except Business class.

2. Procedures for Transporting Pets by Airplane

2.1 What Documents Are Required for Transporting Pets by Airplane?

Generally, passengers who wish to use the service of transporting pets by airplane need to prepare the following documents:

A quarantine certificate issued by the veterinary department where you reside.
Vaccination records, Pet health book: Dogs and cats must be over 10 weeks old, and dogs must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days prior.
Export-import or transit permits (for international flights).

Additionally, the pet owner or passenger traveling with the pet must bring a notarized copy/photocopy of their passport with their information on the first page. Besides the documents, you must also prepare a standard pet carrier.

2.2 Steps for Transporting Pets by Airplane

Prepare a waterproof cage according to the airline's requirements, sufficient food for the journey (especially for long trips), and the necessary documents. The health certificate must be valid for 24 hours.
Register for pet transportation services at the airline's registration desk. For Vietjet flights, you must register at least one day before departure. Other airlines may have different deadlines, typically at least one day before the flight.
Depending on your needs, you can choose to register as checked baggage or bring the pet carrier into the cabin.
Fill out the airline's review form and wait for confirmation on whether you can transport your pet by plane.
At least 2 hours before departure, bring the pet carrier along with necessary items and documents to the counter for check-in and checked baggage procedures. You will have to sign a "Release of Liability" form, accepting all potential risks, including injury or death of the pet during transportation.
During the flight, ensure the pet remains in the securely locked cage. After the flight, passengers collect their pets as they would with checked baggage. For pets traveling in the cabin with passengers, treat them as carry-on luggage.

Pets should be fed at least 4-6 hours before the flight departs.

3. Important Notes for Transporting Pets by Airplane

If you plan to take your pet on a flight, consider the following tips and experiences to ensure a smooth journey:

Taking your pet to the vet not only helps you prepare the necessary documents for the trip but also allows you to assess the pet's health condition. You can detect any illnesses and provide timely treatment for the pet.
When planning to bring your pet on a flight, prepare mentally for any unexpected situations that might occur with the pet.
Feed your pet at least 4-6 hours before departure.
Do not give your pet sedatives or any medication before the flight, as this could be dangerous.
Due to the numerous procedures that may take time, bring your pet to the airport well ahead of time to complete all the necessary formalities and pay fees promptly.
For international flights, contact the Vietnamese Embassy in your destination country to understand entry procedures for your pet.

Passengers traveling with pets on Vietjet Air flights will be arranged in suitable seating, avoiding emergency exit rows.

As summer approaches, if you're planning to travel with your pet for meaningful trips, vacations, or simply a family reunion back home, plan thoroughly to organize pet air transport services. With the guidelines for pet air transport compiled by Vietjet, we hope you and your four-legged friends have complete and joyful trips.

To save on costs and secure cheap flights for your journey with your pet, keep an eye on the 0 VND domestic ticket promotions every day from 12 PM to 2 PM and the 0 VND international tickets every Friday.

Visit our website for more attractive promotions and useful travel information.