Flying with Your Pet: What UK Airlines Expect

If you are planning to fly with a small pet, the carrier you choose matters just as much as the ticket you book. Most UK airlines that allow pets in the cabin set their own maximum carrier dimensions and combined pet-and-carrier weight limits, and these can differ quite a bit from one airline to the next.

As a general rule, look for a soft-sided carrier that can compress slightly to fit under the seat in front of you, with mesh panelling for airflow during the flight. Rigid carriers are rarely accepted in the cabin, though they may be suitable for hold travel with the right preparation.

Always confirm pet travel rules directly with your airline before booking, ideally at the time of booking rather than afterwards, since space for pets in the cabin is usually limited and allocated on a first-come basis.

We are not able to guarantee that any carrier meets a specific airline's requirements, so please check the current published guidelines for your airline before you travel.