Yes, Air France allows pets to travel in the cabin and as checked baggage, but strict rules, fees, and size limits apply depending on the animal, route, and cabin class. You must book your pet in advance, meet all documentation and carrier requirements, and note that some destinations have special restrictions or bans.
Air France Pet Policy Overview
Air France permits dogs and cats on most flights, but the rules differ from many other airlines. Pets are accepted in the cabin on most short- and medium-haul flights, and in the hold (as checked baggage) on long-haul flights. However, there are important limitations: no pets are allowed in the Premium Economy or Business cabins on long-haul routes, and only dogs and cats are accepted—no other animals (birds, rodents, etc.) are carried. Additionally, some countries (like the UK and Ireland) have strict entry rules, and Air France does not transport pets to or from certain destinations.
In-Cabin Pet Travel
If your pet is small enough, you can bring it into the cabin with you. The maximum weight for in-cabin pets (including the carrier) is 8 kg (17.6 lbs). The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, with maximum dimensions of 46 x 29 x 24 cm (18 x 11.5 x 9.5 inches). Only one pet per passenger is allowed in the cabin, and the pet must remain inside the carrier for the entire flight. The carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and allow the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Checked Baggage (Hold) Travel
For larger pets (over 8 kg), Air France transports them as checked baggage in the cargo hold. The combined weight of the pet and its container must not exceed 75 kg (165 lbs). The container must meet IATA standards, with proper ventilation, a secure latch, and absorbent lining. Pets in the hold are placed in a dedicated, temperature-controlled compartment, but it can still be stressful for the animal. Some breeds—especially brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs and cats—are not accepted in the hold due to breathing risks. Air France also restricts hold travel during extreme heat or cold, and some routes may not offer hold transport at all.
Booking and Fees
You must contact Air France to add a pet to your reservation—this cannot be done online. The airline limits the number of pets per flight, so early booking is essential. Fees vary by route and type of travel:
- In-cabin: typically €30–€60 for short-haul, €60–€120 for long-haul, depending on destination.
- Checked baggage: typically €60–€200, again varying by route.
- No fee for service dogs (with proper documentation) traveling with a passenger with a disability.
Note that fees are non-refundable and may change without notice. Always confirm the exact fee when booking.
Documentation and Health Requirements
For travel within the European Union, your pet needs an EU Pet Passport (for dogs, cats, and ferrets) with a valid rabies vaccination. For travel to or from non-EU countries, you need an animal health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of departure, plus a rabies vaccination certificate. Some countries require additional tests (like a rabies titer test) or treatments (e.g., tapeworm treatment for dogs entering certain countries). Check the destination country’s requirements well in advance, as rules can be strict and change frequently.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
Many pet owners face issues at the airport because they are unaware of the rules. The most common problems include:
- Carrier too large or too small for the pet.
- Pet over the weight limit (especially in-cabin).
- Missing or incorrect documentation.
- Breed restrictions (e.g., bulldogs, pugs, Persian cats) that are not allowed in the hold.
- Booking last minute, only to find the pet quota is full.
To avoid these, read the policy carefully, weigh your pet and carrier at home, and contact Air France at least 48 hours before departure. Also, arrive at the airport with extra time, as check-in with a pet takes longer.
Alternatives to Air France Pet Travel
If Air France does not meet your needs (e.g., your pet is too large, or you are flying to a restricted destination), consider alternatives:
- Other airlines with more flexible pet policies, such as Lufthansa or KLM (though KLM is part of the same group, rules may differ slightly).
- Pet relocation services that handle all logistics, including customs and quarantine.
- Ground transportation for short distances, which may be less stressful for your pet.
Template for Pet Travel Checklist
Pre-Flight Checklist
| Item | Details | Done |
|---|---|---|
| Carrier size/weight | ______ | ☐ |
| Health certificate | ______ | ☐ |
| Rabies vaccination | ______ | ☐ |
| EU passport (if applicable) | ______ | ☐ |
| Booking confirmed | ______ | ☐ |
| Fees paid | ______ | ☐ |
Sample (fictional): Carrier: 45x28x23 cm, weight 7.5 kg; Health cert issued 2025-03-01; Rabies vaccine 2025-02-15; EU passport #123456; Booking ref AB1234; Fee €60.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my pet on an Air France flight without booking in advance?
No. You must add your pet to your reservation at least 48 hours before departure, and the airline limits the number of pets per flight. If you don’t book in advance, you may be denied boarding with your pet.
What is the maximum size for an in-cabin pet on Air France?
The pet plus carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs), and the carrier must fit under the seat (max 46 x 29 x 24 cm). Your pet must be able to stand and turn around inside.
Are service dogs allowed in the cabin?
Yes, service dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities are allowed in the cabin free of charge, provided you have the required documentation (e.g., a certificate of training or medical letter). They do not need to be in a carrier, but must be harnessed and under your control.
Which dog breeds are not accepted by Air France?
Air France does not accept brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds in the hold, such as bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats, due to breathing risks. In the cabin, there is no breed restriction, but the weight limit still applies.
What happens if my pet is too large for the cabin?
If your pet exceeds 8 kg, it must travel in the hold as checked baggage, provided it fits within the 75 kg total weight limit and the destination allows it. If your pet is too large for the hold, you will need to use a pet relocation service or another airline.
Can I take my pet to the UK with Air France?
Air France does not transport pets to or from the UK (including as cargo) due to strict entry rules. You will need to use a specialized pet transport service or another airline that offers this route.