Imagine your pet, the one with the wagging tail or the sweet purring, becoming more than just a buddy. Over time, they’ve woven themselves into the very fabric of your family, offering unconditional love and endless joy.
They’re not just pets; they’re family! Now, assume how much fun it will be to go on an exciting journey with your furry friend, flying through the sky and exploring the beautiful places in India together.
Doesn’t it sound exciting? Don’t worry; you can make this dream true, just follow the terms and conditions correctly.
Think of this guide as a helpful friend who will explain everything you need to know about flight charges for pets in India.
So, let’s plan this adventure together, and soaring through the Indian skies side by side with you and your furry companion!
A) Air India’s Pet Policy for Domestic Flights
It’s essential to understand the airline’s pet policy and the associated costs to ensure a smooth and safe journey for your furry friend.
Here, we will break down the important information you need to know, including pet reservations, pet container requirements, costs, and additional considerations.
1. Types of Pets Allowed
Air India is happy to have little pets like dogs, cats, and birds on their flights within India. Your furry or feathery friends can join you in the passenger cabin.
Trained service dogs can also come with their owners and sit in the passenger area without any extra charges.
Just remember to check the airline’s pet policy and make any necessary reservations in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your pet.
2. Pet Reservations
To travel with your pet on Air India’s domestic flights in India, you must plan ahead. You can’t do this online, instead, you have two straightforward options.
- You can call Air India Reservations, where you can speak with someone who will help you arrange your pet’s trip.
- Visit the nearest Air India office in person. By doing this, you’re making sure that Air India is ready to welcome your furry or feathered friend on board and that everything goes smoothly.
This small but essential step ensures that both you and your pet have a comfortable and hassle-free journey when flying with Air India within India.
3. Pet Container Size and Weight Requirements
When bringing your pet on board, you must adhere to specific size and weight guidelines.
- The pet container must not exceed 45 x 45 x 30 cm (18 x 18 x 12 inches) if carried in the cabin.
- The total weight of the pet and its container must not exceed 11 pounds (5 kilograms) for in-cabin travel.
- Larger or heavier pets must be transported in the cargo hold as checked baggage.
The pet container must meet the following criteria;
- The container should be made of soft materials to provide a secure environment for your pet.
- Ensure that the container has adequate ventilation to allow fresh air to flow, keeping your pet comfortable and ensuring they can breathe easily.
- Affix a label on the container, displaying your pet’s name. This simple measure helps in easy identification and ensures that your pet is well-cared for during the journey.
- Inside the container, place a moisture-absorbent mat. This mat helps in managing any spills or accidents, keeping your pet dry and comfortable throughout the flight.
4. Pet Age and Health
For the safety and well-being of your pet, Air India has established the following age requirements;
a) Age Requirement
For puppies and kittens, Air India requires a minimum age of 8 weeks before they join on a journey. This stipulation is in place to safeguard their health and development.
b) Rabies and Vaccination Certificates
To guarantee your pet’s protection and health, it’s essential to verify that their rabies and vaccination certificates are both valid and up to date.
These certificates serve as proof of your pet’s immunization status and are mandatory during the check-in process. By presenting these documents, you contribute to the overall safety and well-being of all passengers and their pets on the flight.
5. Number of Pets Allowed
Domestic flights allow a maximum of two pets per flight when you’re traveling. If you’re thinking of bringing more than two pets, you’ll have to come up with different plans.
They won’t be able to join you on the same flight, so you need to make other arrangements for their travel. This rule helps ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers and their pets during the journey.
6. Pet Fees
When traveling with your pet, you will be subject to normal excess baggage charges, which will include the combined weight of your pet, its container, and its food. Please note that pets are not included in a passenger’s free baggage allowance.
However, trained guide dogs can travel free of charge if they meet specific criteria, including being properly leashed, muzzled, and vaccinated, and with the approval of the aircraft commander.
7. Pet Restrictions
To maintain safety and comfort for all passengers and their pets during Air India’s domestic flights, please take note of the following guidelines;
- Pregnant dogs and cats can’t travel. It’s to keep moms and potential babies safe.
- If you’re traveling with a pet, you’ll sit at the back of the plane i.e.,seated in the last row of their cabin class . This way, it’s easier for everyone.
- Make sure to leash and wear a muzzle while traveling with a pet dog.
- Pets can’t sit in passenger seats. Those seats are for people only.
B) Estimating the Cost of Traveling with Your Pet
To help you plan your trip with your pet, it’s crucial to estimate the associated costs. These costs can be divided into two categories that are highlighted below:
1. Crate/Container Cost
Airlines in India require pets to be transported in fiber or wooden crates known as “crates.” Below are the crate sizes available along with their typical market prices:
- Giant XXL 48″ (For giant dogs): Market Price – INR 44,500
- XXL 40″ (For large dogs): Market Price – INR 17,500
- XL 36″ (For medium dogs): Market Price – INR 14,500
- L 32″ (For small-sized dogs): Market Price – INR 12,500
- M 28″ (For puppies and cats): Market Price – INR 10,500
- S 25″ (For kittens and small cats): Market Price – INR 8,500
You have the opportunity to acquire brand-new pet crates at the prices specified within the market. This means you can purchase suitable crates for your pets at the standard market rates, ensuring their comfort and safety during travel.
2. Airline Freight Charges
These are based on either the actual weight (crate + pet) or the volumetric weight (crate), whichever is higher. Freight rates vary, and the per-kilogram rate can range from INR 90 to 150. Additionally, there may be cargo handling, live animals, x-ray costs, and taxes.
Here are approximate freight charges for some routes:
- Spicejet Mumbai to Bangalore (40″ XXL crate) ≈ INR 14,000
- Spicejet Bangalore to Delhi (32″ L crate) ≈ INR 10,000
- Air India Hyderabad to Pune (28″ M crate) ≈ INR 8,000
- Air India Delhi to Bangalore (48″ Giant crate) ≈ INR 30,000
Please contact the respective airline cargo offices for precise freight charges based on your specific route and crate size.
Remember to make your pet reservations in advance, choose an appropriate crate, and budget for all related expenses to make your trip a hassle-free one.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pet on Air India’s domestic flights within India is possible and can be a rewarding experience. By understanding domestic flights’ pet policy and by knowing flight charges for pets in India, you can ensure that both can have a comfortable and safe journey.
Enjoy your adventure with your beloved pet!
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