Japan Airlines (JAL) – Pet Policy

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Quick Reference Table

Bulldogs are never accepted. No snub-nosed breeds or flat-faced cats/dogs accepted if temp >30°C/86°F or <7°C/45°F. Strong breeds = cargo/metal crate only. Always check route/season bans before booking.

General Policy Overview

• PETS IN CABIN: Only certified service/guide dogs allowed on international flights. On domestic flights, small dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, and birds may be accepted in cabin if in carrier (max 30x20x20cm).
• PETS AS CHECKED BAGGAGE: Most typical pets (dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, birds, freshwater fish) accepted if crate + animal ≤32kg (or 45kg on regional routes). Brachycephalic breeds restricted for heat. Healthy, >8 weeks old pets only.
• PETS AS CARGO: Strong breeds, larger pets, and those not eligible for checked baggage travel as air cargo with metal crate and full documentation.
• BREED RESTRICTIONS: Bulldogs not allowed. No extreme snub-nosed breeds in heat/cold extremes. Strong breeds only as cargo in metal crate.

Pet-Specific Guidance

• Dogs: Only service/guide dogs in-cabin internationally; small breeds in-cabin on domestic (subject to carrier and size limits). General dogs as checked/cargo with health certification. Bulldogs and strong breeds subject to outright bans/additional requirements.
• Cats: Checked/cargo for international; in-cabin for domestic (with size restrictions). No Persians, Himalayans, or other flat-faced cats during heat/cold extremes. Complete paperwork always needed.
• Rabbits/Rodents: Domestic in-cabin with carrier; all others as checked/cargo, with vet certs.
• Birds: In-cabin domestically for some species; checked/cargo (not birds of prey) on other routes. Quarantine and species documentation strictly enforced.
• Fish: Freshwater accepted as checked/cargo in leak-proof container with proper paperwork. Saltwater fish not permitted as baggage.
• Reptiles: Not accepted as cabin/baggage, may be eligible via cargo by special arrangement with documentation.

Container & Weight/Size Rules

• IATA-compliant hard crate required for all checked/cargo pets (internal size: pet can stand/turn, ventilated, leak-proof, no part of pet can stick out).
• Max crate size international: 292 cm (L+W+H). For domestic in-cabin: 30x20x20 cm.
• Max weight: 32kg (checked), 45kg (regional flights); heavier/larger must go as cargo.
• Check all aircraft/route bans for pets (seasonal, regional, country rules may vary).

Required Documentation

• Health/vet certificate and vaccination record (rabies where required)
• Import/export permits, quarantine certificate if needed
• Completed and signed JAL Pet Confirmation form
• IATA crate compliance proof
• Official service dog ID and docs (for in-cabin international/service animals)

Woofly Tips

• Book early—pet spots (especially in cabin/domestic) fill up quickly; always confirm aircraft and route allow pets before ticketing.
• Bulldogs, flat-faced dogs/cats, and strong breeds often face complete bans or require extra paperwork — don’t risk your pet’s safety in heat/cold or book last-minute without confirming restrictions.
• For international trips, prepare all paperwork at least two weeks in advance; keep hard copies accessible during check-in and transit.
• Sedation of animals is not recommended. Make crate a comforting space (bedding, familiar scents).