Flying a pet with British Airways is done through their dedicated animal transport service, IAG Cargo. This ensures pets are carried safely, in compliance with UK and international rules. Petair can handle the whole process including booking, crate preparation, paperwork, and customs clearance.
In-Cabin Travel
- Only certified assistance dogs can travel in the cabin. These must be trained by organisations that are members of Assistance Dogs International or the International Guide Dog Federation.
- Emotional support animals are not accepted in the cabin.
Checked Baggage
- British Airways does not accept pets as checked baggage on any route.
Air Cargo via IAG Cargo
All other pets must travel as air cargo. This includes dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, ferrets, reptiles, and other small animals.
- Book through an authorised pet shipper such as Petair.
- Submit bookings up to 14 days before departure or up to 6 weeks ahead for USA and Canada flights.
- Check-in is at the IAG Cargo facility, not the passenger terminal.
- International flights require pets to be checked in around 4 hours before departure.
- A Form of Indemnity may need to be signed in case quarantine is required on arrival.
Transport Conditions and Crate Requirements
IAG Cargo follows IATA Live Animal Regulations for all shipments.
Crates must be:
- Solid and secure, not made from wicker or mesh.
- Fully ventilated on all sides.
- Fitted with water and food bowls that can be refilled from the outside.
- Large enough for the pet to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably.
- At least 10 per cent larger than standard if the pet is a snub-nosed breed.
Minimum crate sizes:
- Departing USA or Canada: 68 × 50 × 48 cm (27 × 20 × 19 in)
- Other countries: approximately 53 × 40 × 38 cm (21 × 16 × 15 in)
UK Pet Travel Scheme
Pets entering the UK must meet Defra Pet Travel Scheme rules. This includes:
- Microchip
- Rabies vaccination
- Veterinary health certificate
- Tapeworm treatment for dogs (where required)
Failure to meet requirements could result in quarantine and associated costs.
British Airways Pet Travel
| Scenario | Method | Rules |
| Certified assistance dog | In-Cabin | Only if trained by approved organisations |
| All other pets | IAG Cargo | Requires advance booking and IATA-compliant crate |
| Arriving in the UK | IAG Cargo | Must meet Defra Pet Travel Scheme rules |
| All pets | Documentation | Microchip, vaccinations, health certificates, import forms |
Petair can arrange safe, compliant transport for your pet with British Airways through IAG Cargo. We take care of booking, crate supply, veterinary paperwork, and customs so your pet’s journey is safe and stress-free. Contact us today to start planning your pet’s trip.
