Moving your pet to the UK involves choosing the right transport method, airline, and approved route based on your pet’s size, breed, and origin country. Most pets travel safely in the aircraft hold as manifest cargo, with certain exceptions such as private jet travel. The key is selecting a compliant, low-stress option that meets UK entry requirements.
This guide focuses on how to physically transport your pet, helping you make the best decision for a safe, smooth journey.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Transport Method
If you’re asking “how do you transport your pet to the UK?”, the answer depends on four main options:
Manifest Cargo (Recommended for Most Pets)
- This is the gold standard for flying pets to the UK.
- Pets travel in a temperature-controlled, pressurised hold
- Managed by airline cargo teams trained in animal handling
- Required for most pets entering the UK under approved routes
Best for:
- Most dog breeds
- Long-haul journeys
- Direct entry into the UK
Private Jet In-Cabin Pet Travel
PetAir’s Superior Package option.
- Suitable for all pets, especially old, large and brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds
- Your pet is in the cabin, right next to you – no need for a crate
Read our blog on ‘cabin vs hold pet travel’ to understand which option is best for your pet.
Driving
- More suitable for shorter journeys such as to France, Spain or Germany
- Long journeys in cars are often more difficult for a pet
- Regular stops are needed – if overnight, a pet-friendly location is required
Read our blog comparing road vs air pet travel, to see which is right for you and your pet.
Not Flying Directly Into the UK: Standard In-Cabin Pet Travel (Split Journey)
Important: this option is NOT available into the UK, or a service PetAir UK provide.
Some people choose to fly their pet in-cabin elsewhere into Europe (excluding the UK), e.g. Paris, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt. This is because some airlines into these places allow for in-cabin pet travel. From there, you have the option to drive or go by ferry into the UK.
Best for:
- Small pets under airline weight limits
- Owners wanting constant visual contact
PetAir can not support you and your pet if you choose this option. This option can also be a lengthy journey – consider if this might be too difficult for your pet. Direct flights in the hold, are often the safest and more stress-free option for your pet.
Step 2: Which Airlines Carry Pets into the UK?
Choosing the right airline is critical.
Here are some of the most commonly used airlines for pet travel:
- British Airways
- Lufthansa
- Air Canada
- American Airlines
- KLM
- Emirates
Each airline differs in:
- Crate size allowances
- Breed restrictions (especially for brachycephalic pets)
- Seasonal temperature embargoes
- Transit handling standards
Not all airlines offer the same animal welfare standards, which is why expert guidance can make a significant difference.
By using PetAir, we will choose the right airline for your journey. We will also make sure ALL pet travel requirements are met – ensuring your pet has a safe and secure journey. Learn why you should choose PetAir here.
Step 3: Understanding Approved Routes for Pets Entering the UK
The UK enforces strict approved routes to protect animal and public health.
Approved routes for pets entering the UK include:
- Specific airline and airport combinations
- Entry via designated Animal Reception Centres, such as Heathrow’s Animal Reception Centre (HARC) and Animal Air Care (AAC)
- Pre-approved carriers for ferry or Eurotunnel travel
Key point:
If your pet does not arrive via an approved route, they may:
- Be refused entry
- Be placed into quarantine
- Experience significant delays
This is why route planning is just as important as documentation. Once again, PetAir can sort all this for you – from travel plans to full documentation.
Step 4: Deciding What’s Best for Your Pet
Every pet is different. Choosing the right option depends on:
Your pet’s size
- Large pets: private jet travel is often a good option when airlines have size restrictions
Breed considerations
- Flat-faced breeds may face airline restrictions
- Some airlines have stricter policies than others
Journey length
- Direct cargo flights often reduce total travel time
Temperament
- Anxious pets may benefit from fewer transitions, meaning the hold might be the best option
Not sure what’s right for your pet? Speak to our expert team for advice, or get a quick quote to start your travel prep.
Step 5: Planning a Smooth Journey
To ensure stress-free transport:
- Book early, especially during peak travel seasons
- Use an IATA-compliant crate and allow time for crate training – PetAir provide these crates, as well as crate training support
- Avoid extreme weather periods where possible
- Double-check airline and route approvals
- Work with a DEFRA-compliant, IPATA and IATA approved pet relocation specialist, such as PetAir
How PetAir Supports Your Journey: Arrival Plus
Transport logistics are where most pet relocations become complex.
PetAir’s Arrival Plus service is designed to simplify this stage by not only handling:
- Airline selection based on your pet’s needs
- Approved route planning
- Flight bookings and crate compliance
- Customs clearance and ARC coordination
But also:
- Online Pet Store voucher
- Recommended local UK vet practice
- Preventative healthcare plan offer
- Free health check when joining the preventative health care plan
- 3 months access to our 24/7 online vet service
- Refer-a-friend reward
- Plus other optional upgrades, such as home delivery
Learn more about PetAir’s Arrival Plus scheme here.
With over 33,000 pets relocated across 300+ destinations, PetAir combines veterinary expertise with logistical precision to ensure pets arrive safely and comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do dogs and cats go on a plane?
Most pets travel in a temperature-controlled, pressurised cargo hold designed specifically for live animals. It is safe, secure, and routinely used for international pet travel. PetAir offer a private jet of in-cabin pet travel, with their Superior Package.
Can you fly to the UK with a pet in the cabin?
No. Unless via private jet, pets cannot enter the UK directly in-cabin, but indirect routes via Europe may allow part of the journey to be in the cabin. This would consist of in-cabin travel into Europe (excluding the UK) and travelling by road into the UK.
Which airlines allow pets in the cabin to the UK?
No airlines currently allow standard in-cabin pet entry directly into the UK. However, some airlines permit cabin travel to EU destinations as part of a multi-leg journey.
Can movers transport my pets internationally?
Yes. Specialist pet relocation companies coordinate flights, documentation, approved routes, and welfare requirements to ensure safe international transport. Book a quote or speak to our expert team at PetAir to see which travel option is best for you and your pet.
How do pet relocation service providers justify their costs?
Costs reflect expert planning, airline coordination, regulatory compliance, welfare standards, and end-to-end logistics. This reduces risk, delays, and stress for both pets and owners.
Ready to Move Your Pet to the UK?
Planning your pet’s journey to the UK doesn’t need to be overwhelming.
Give us a call or WhatsApp us to speak to our expert team today – details below.
Or request a quote online to start your pet travel process.
Want more information on relocating your pet into the UK? Click here to visit our ‘Importing Pets’ page.
Or click here read our other blog, braking down the key elements to bringing your pet to the UK.
