Pet Air Travel Guide 2025 – How Defence Personnel Can Fly Safely with Their Pets
In this article
Key Highlights
- Air India’s new “Paws on Board” policy allows pets up to 10 kg (including kennel) in the cabin.
- Akasa Air permits pets up to 7 kg in the cabin, including cats and dogs.
- Defence families can now plan pet-inclusive travel on 80+ domestic and international routes.
- Pet documents can be submitted online before flying for a faster check-in process.
- Priority check-in and boarding for travellers with pets available on select flights.
- udChalo’s travel advisors can help coordinate defence bookings that include pets.
- Tips for stress-free pet travel: the right crate, hydration, a vet certificate, and acclimatisation.
- 24×7 airline helplines for pet travel assistance ensure smoother coordination.
- Certain breeds and large pets may only travel as checked-in cargo.
- Always confirm LTC travel rules when combining pet travel with official leave.
Flying with Pets Made Easier – 2025 Pet Travel Updates
Indian airlines are becoming more accommodating for travellers who consider their pets part of the family. Both Air India and Akasa Air have revised their policies to make pet travel simpler, safer, and stress-free — especially helpful for defence families relocating, going on leave, or returning from postings.
Air India’s Refreshed “Paws on Board” Policy
Air India’s latest update allows:
- Pets weighing up to 10 kg (including kennel) to travel in cabin.
- Online submission of vaccination and health documents for quick approval.
- Booking up to 48 hours before departure for flexibility.
- Priority check-in and boarding for passengers flying with pets.
- 24×7 pet travel helpline for any travel-related queries.
This policy applies across 80+ domestic and international routes, making Air India one of the most accommodating carriers for pet parents.
For details, refer to Air India Pet Travel Guidelines.
Akasa Air – Pets on Board
Akasa Air, India’s youngest airline, allows:
- Pets up to 7 kg (including container) in the cabin.
- Cats and dogs are accepted on domestic routes.
- Travel bookings are available online or through the call centre.
- Mandatory vaccination certificate and fit-to-fly health certificate within 72 hours of travel.
- Pets larger than 7 kg must be transported as checked baggage or cargo.
Check the official policy: Akasa Air Pets Information.
Pet Travel Tips for Defence Personnel and Families
Moving between postings or travelling home on leave can be hectic. These tips make pet travel easier:
- Book early via trusted channels like udChalo Flights for better route options.
- Vet check – ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and that a fit-to-fly certificate is issued within 72 hours.
- Choose the right kennel: Airline-approved, ventilated, leak-proof, and large enough for the pet to stand.
- Hydration and comfort: Avoid feeding 2 hours before flight; offer water before boarding.
- Label your crate with your name, contact information, and destination clearly.
- Avoid sedatives unless prescribed by a vet.
- Travel in cooler hours if possible, especially for short-nosed breeds.
- Prepare your pet: Familiarise them with their travel crate days in advance.
- Arrive at the airport early for a smoother screening and documentation process.
- Stay updated with airline advisories through udChalo Blogs.
Documents Required for Pet Air Travel in India
- Government-issued ID of the owner.
- Fit-to-fly certificate (within 72 hours).
- Vaccination record (Rabies mandatory).
- Airline-approved crate dimensions and weight.
- Health declaration form (available at airline counters).
- For international routes: microchip details, import/export NOC, and destination-specific paperwork.
Defence Traveller Note – Combining LTC and Pet Travel
If your trip involves LTC or defence leave, verify that pet carriage costs are personal expenses (not claimable). You can still book discounted flights via udChalo and coordinate pet travel directly with the airline.
For longer leave trips, explore pet-friendly holidays through udChalo Holidays or check visa-on-arrival destinations where quarantine rules are lenient:
Visa-on-Arrival Countries for Indians 2025.
Final Word – Pet Travel Simplified for Defence Families
With Air India’s Paws on Board and Akasa Air’s Pets on Akasa, air travel for pets has become smoother and more structured.
For defence personnel and families, planning through udChalo Flights and udChalo Holidays ensures verified fares, support, and flexibility.
If you’re relocating, going on LTC leave, or returning home — take your furry companion along, stress-free.
Fly safe, fly together, and keep tails wagging all the way!
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