Making In-Cabin Pet Travel Easier: IATA’s New Initiatives

Traveling with pets is no longer a niche concern. As more passengers choose to bring their furry companions on board, the aviation industry is responding with a coordinated effort to make pet travel safer, more transparent, and easier to navigate.

Mapping the Pet Travel Journey

For many travelers, flying with a pet can feel like navigating a maze of airline policies, container requirements, and documentation needs. A lack of standardized policies across airlines and countries can lead to confusion, delays, and stress—for both humans and animals.

IATA, in collaboration with airlines, pet shippers and other industry stakeholders, is developing an in-cabin pet travel journey map and accompanying guidance. By mapping out each step of the travel experience—from booking and check-in to onboard handling and arrival—the guidance will provide passengers with a clear, step-by-step overview of what to expect and how to prepare. This includes:

• Assessing pet eligibility for travel
• Selecting the appropriate travel container
• Understanding airline-specific policies
• Preparing documentation and health certificates

The goal is to create a harmonized framework that airlines and passengers can rely on, reducing uncertainty and improving the overall travel experience.

The Role of Airlines and Stakeholders

The development of the journey map isn’t happening in isolation. IATA is working closely with a wide range of stakeholders, including:

• Airlines: To align policies and procedures across carriers
• Veterinary Experts: To incorporate animal welfare best practices
• Cargo and Compliance Teams: To integrate pet travel into broader logistics frameworks

This collaborative approach ensures that the final guidance reflects real-world operational needs while prioritizing pet safety and passenger convenience.

Explore the IATA Traveler’s Pet Corner

While the journey map is still in development, travelers can access a wealth of information at the IATA Traveler’s Pet Corner. This dedicated page offers comprehensive guidance for passengers planning to fly with dogs or cats in the cabin or as cargo.

Key Highlights from the Pet Corner:

• Container Requirements (CR1): Detailed specifications for pet carriers, including size, ventilation, and construction materials. These also ensure pets can stand, turn, and lie down comfortably during travel.
• Travel Preparation Tips: Advice on feeding, hydration, and acclimating pets to their containers before travel.
• Country and Airline Regulations: Guidance on navigating different rules for pet transport across borders and airlines.
• Health and Safety Recommendations: Including age requirements, vaccination protocols, and sedation warnings.

This resource is a must-read for any pet owner considering air travel. It’s designed to empower passengers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and avoid last-minute surprises.

LAR Verify: A Game-Changer for Compliance

In parallel with the journey map initiative, IATA has launched LAR Verify, a digital platform designed to simplify the acceptance and compliance process for live animal shipments—including pets.

LAR Verify provides real-time access to the IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR), which have governed animal air transport for over 50 years. The platform automates compliance checks, validates documentation, and integrates directly into cargo management systems.

How LAR Verify Supports Pet Travel:

• Regulation Checker: Instantly access state and airline-specific pet travel rules
• Document Validation: Upload and verify health certificates and import/export permits
• Container Standards: Ensure carriers meet the IATA CR1 requirements for in-cabin pets
• Embargo Alerts : Stay informed about seasonal or disease-related travel restrictions
• Network Access: Share compliance data across airline hubs and outstations

The “Journey of a Pet in Cabin” will be presented on the upcoming IATA Cargo Experts Conference (CEC) in Brussels on 24 September 2025. 

Visit the IATA’s Traveler’s Pet Corner to explore resources and stay updated on developments.

And for industry professionals, LAR Verify is your gateway to smarter, safer animal transport.