Gatwick Airport is the UK’s second largest airport, with 2 terminals, they see the arrival and departure of thousands of animals each year. Gatwick operates flights from leading airlines, such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, both of which transport pets.

Pet flights to and from Gatwick must be organised in advance with the airlines or pet travel agents.

Gatwick pet travel works by the Pet Travel Scheme (PET) whereby pets can enter the UK without quarantine as long as they follow the rules. This scheme is also the same for transporting pets out of the UK. Some countries may have their own rules regarding pet transport.

Every pet entering and leaving the UK from Gatwick must have an IATA approved crate. PetAir can help you ensure your crate is acceptable prior to the flight.

Inbound pet transport at Gatwick is managed by the Animal Aircare Company, who oversee actions at the Gatwick Animal Reception Centre.

At this centre, pets are taken care of after their flight. Staff complete document, health and general pet checks, ensuring they are happy and comfortable. On arrival, your pet will be given their own kennel, bedding and water. Food is not given unless necessary, as each animal usually has another journey ahead of them.

The Animal Reception Centre can organise the boarding of your pets including transferring them from the aircraft to a luxury kennel at the centre, where they can rest before collection. From the centre, PetAir can organise delivering your pet home, if needed.

Alternatively, if you would prefer for your pet to stay in a kennel/cattery apart from the airport, just let us know. PetAir rent space in a family-run animal boarding company in Windsor, nearby to London airports. Located in the country, pets can exercise in open spaces and PetAir have 24-hour access to your pets here.

PetAir are experienced pet travel agents who can arrange arrivals and departures from Gatwick. Got any more questions about Gatwick pet travel? Do no hesitate to get in touch with one of our pet transport experts.

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Get in touch with one of our pet transport experts

US to the UK

From start to finish the service provided by PetAir UK was excellent. They are on top of everything – they communicate well – they let you know the process and keep you informed. We went for the Gold service and our dog took three days to get to us in the US from the UK....

Mipha’s Travels

I just wanted to thank you so much for all your hard work getting Mipha here safe. She is settling in really well. Thank you for putting my mind at ease and answering all my questions, I am truly grateful.

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Millie to Auckland

I am writing to thank you for providing such a trouble-free service to get her from our home in Hampshire to our new home here is Auckland. In particular, many thanks to Emma Chalmers who handled everything so efficiently and managed our last minute panics – change of collection details less than 24 hours before...