Air India – Pet Policy
| Pet Type | Cabin | Checked Baggage / Cargo | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog | Yes (≤7 kg incl. carrier; soft/hard IATA carrier; pre-book 72h; muzzle/leash required) | Yes (7–32 kg incl. crate as checked baggage; >32 kg as cargo; IATA crate mandatory) | All flights must be on Air India; none to USA/UK/DE (except service dogs); no emotional support animals; snub-nosed/aggressive breeds: only in cabin with caution |
| Cat | Yes (same as dog) | Yes (same as dog; snub-nosed/flat-faced cats not allowed in hold/cargo) | All documents and health rules as for dogs |
| Bird | No | Yes (cargo only; restrictions by species/route; documents required) | Household birds only; inquire at booking |
| Rabbit / Reptile / Fish | No | Yes (cargo only; permits and handling essential) | In-cabin/checked baggage not permitted |
Important Guidelines
- Book your pet at least 72 hours in advance. All segments must be operated by Air India.
- Muzzle and leash your dog during the flight; cats and small dogs must remain inside carriers at all times in cabin.
- For checked/cargo pets: IATA-compliant crate must be leak-proof, secure, ventilated, and sized for animal to stand, turn, and lie down.
- No pet travel to/from USA, UK, Germany (except for recognized service dogs with medical/training documents).
- Pregnant, unwell, too young (<8w cabin / <12w cargo), or elderly pets are not accepted. No emotional support animals accepted.
- Bring a valid vet health certificate, rabies/vaccination records, completed indemnity form, and all import/export/transit permits as required for your journey.
- Puppies/kittens from same litter <6m can share carrier (max 2); max 2 pets per passenger ticket (add companion for more).
- Birds move as cargo only; no in-cabin pet birds; strictly prohibited species per local/import/export rules.
Woofly Tips
- Acclimate your pet to its carrier well before travel—most denied boardings are for frightened animals or improper crate size.
- Make digital and paper copies of all paperwork; airlines and customs may request originals at any transit/arrival point.
- Carefully check destination country rules—some require microchips, special permits, or have breed-specific bans even if Air India permits them.
- Contact Air India before each new trip, as their pet policy, route rules, and international import/export regulations can change year to year.
- Never sedate your pet for air travel without explicit veterinary approval. In emergencies, notify the crew promptly for assistance.
Last updated: July 25, 2025