We've just released the IATA Operational Guidelines for In-Cabin Pet Transport (pdf), developed by the Special Cargo team in collaboration with LAPB, LAWG, ICHC, and other industry stakeholders. The document provides airlines with practical guidance covering the full pet travel journey, from booking and check-in through boarding, in-flight handling, and irregular operations.

Importantly, this is not a guide for passengers traveling with their pets. It is an airline operational guideline designed to support consistent procedures, animal welfare, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency across the industry.

To meet passenger expectations for traveling with pets in the aircraft cabin, airlines should implement clear, consistent procedures that prioritize safety, animal welfare, and operational efficiency. From booking at origin to customs at destination, passengers rely on airlines to provide visibility into a seamless experience. This document provides step-by-step guidance aligned with the passenger-facing stages outlined in the newly established journey map.

By considering the procedures outlined in this document, airlines can expect more efficient operations, improved customer satisfaction, and a more consistent and predictable in-cabin pet travel experience while also enabling clearer passenger communication, reducing service escalations, and minimizing process friction that can impact on-time performance. The guidelines enhance clarity without constraining airline policy decisions, ultimately supporting a smoother, more transparent experience for both passengers and staff.