Qantas does not allow pets in the cabin or as checked baggage on passenger flights; the only way for a dog or cat to fly with Qantas is as manifested cargo through Qantas Freight. This means your pet travels in a dedicated, temperature-controlled hold on the same aircraft as you, but it is booked separately through the freight department, not through the standard passenger booking process.
Background: Why Qantas Moved Pets to Freight
Until 2014, Qantas allowed small pets in the cabin on some domestic routes and larger animals in the hold as checked baggage. That changed after a series of high-profile incidents, including a dog escaping from its kennel at Sydney Airport in 2013 and a cat that survived a fall from a baggage conveyor. In response, Qantas announced in 2014 that it would stop carrying pets as checked baggage and move all animal transport to its freight division. The reasoning was that freight handlers are specially trained to manage live animals, and the freight system provides better climate control, monitoring, and priority handling compared to the passenger baggage system. Since then, Qantas Freight has been the sole channel for pets on Qantas aircraft.
How Qantas Pet Travel Works
Booking a pet on Qantas involves several steps, and it is not something you can add to your passenger ticket online. Here is the typical process:
- Contact Qantas Freight directly (or a licensed pet transport agent) at least 7–14 days before your planned travel date. You will need your flight details, even if you have not booked your own ticket yet.
- Complete a live animal booking request. Qantas Freight will confirm availability, as there are limits on the number of animals per flight and certain aircraft types cannot carry pets.
- Arrange an approved travel crate that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. The crate must be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Deliver your pet to the Qantas Freight terminal at the airport – not the passenger check-in counter – at the specified time, usually 2–4 hours before departure.
- Pick up your pet at the destination freight terminal, not the baggage carousel.
Qantas Freight operates on both domestic and international routes, but not all destinations are available. For example, pets cannot travel to or from Tasmania due to quarantine restrictions, and some international destinations have specific entry requirements.
Eligibility and Restrictions
Not every pet can fly with Qantas. The airline only accepts dogs and cats; other animals like rabbits, birds, or reptiles are generally not carried. There are also breed restrictions – brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats are not accepted on Qantas flights because they are prone to breathing difficulties at altitude. Additionally, puppies and kittens must be at least 8 weeks old, and some countries require a minimum age of 12 weeks for rabies vaccination. Pregnant animals, animals in heat, and animals that are ill or injured are not accepted. Qantas also requires that your pet be microchipped and have up-to-date vaccinations, and for international travel you will need an export health certificate from a veterinarian.
Costs and Fees
The cost of flying a pet with Qantas Freight varies widely based on the size of the animal, the route, and the time of year. As a general guide, domestic flights within Australia typically cost between AUD 200 and AUD 600 for a small dog or cat. International flights cost significantly more – often AUD 1,000 to AUD 3,000 or more – because of longer flight times, quarantine paperwork, and higher freight rates. You should also budget for the travel crate (AUD 50–200), veterinary checks, and any quarantine or import permit fees at your destination. Qantas Freight will provide a precise quote when you request a booking, but it is wise to get one before you commit to your own travel plans.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
Pet owners often run into avoidable issues when booking with Qantas Freight. The most common is leaving the booking too late – Qantas recommends contacting them at least two weeks ahead, but during peak holiday periods you may need a month or more. Another frequent problem is an undersized crate. If your pet cannot stand or turn around, Qantas will refuse to accept it at the airport. Always measure your pet while standing and add a few centimetres for comfort. Also, do not assume that because you are flying on a Qantas passenger flight, your pet will be on the same flight. Freight bookings are separate, and it is possible your pet could be placed on a different flight if space is limited – always confirm the flight number with the freight office. Finally, be aware that Qantas Freight does not offer live animal tracking online; you will need to call their customer service for updates.
Alternatives to Qantas Pet Travel
If Qantas Freight does not suit your needs, there are alternatives. Virgin Australia also carries pets as freight, with similar restrictions. For smaller pets, some owners use dedicated pet transport companies that act as agents and handle all the paperwork – this can be worthwhile for international moves. Another option is to travel by road, which many veterinarians recommend for short distances because it avoids the stress of flying. For pets that are too large or have health issues, a pet courier service that uses ground transport may be the safest choice. If you are moving permanently, consider a specialist pet relocation service that can manage quarantine arrangements and customs clearance.
Safety and Preparation Tips
Flying is stressful for pets, but you can take steps to make it safer and more comfortable. First, visit your vet for a health check and to discuss any sedation – Qantas does not recommend sedatives because they can affect breathing and balance at altitude. On the day of travel, give your pet a light meal 3–4 hours before departure and provide water in a drip bottle attached to the crate. Do not give food in the 2 hours before the flight. Attach a label to the crate with your pet’s name, your contact details, and the destination address. Also, place an absorbent pad in the crate in case of accidents. On the day, arrive early to the freight terminal – you will need time to check in and complete paperwork. After the flight, check your pet for signs of dehydration or stress, and offer water immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my pet in the cabin on Qantas?
No, Qantas does not allow any pets in the passenger cabin, with the exception of certified assistance dogs. These dogs travel in the cabin free of charge, but you must contact Qantas at least 48 hours before your flight to book them. All other pets must go through Qantas Freight.
How far in advance should I book my pet with Qantas Freight?
You should contact Qantas Freight at least 7–14 days before your travel date, but during school holidays and Christmas, book a month ahead. The earlier you book, the more likely your pet can travel on the same flight as you, as there are limited spots per flight.
Do I need to use a pet transport agent?
No, you can book directly with Qantas Freight. However, an agent can be helpful for international moves because they handle export permits, quarantine bookings, and customs clearance. For domestic flights, booking directly is usually straightforward.
What happens if my pet is too big for the crate?
Qantas has maximum crate size restrictions based on the aircraft. If your pet does not fit in a crate that fits through the cargo door, they cannot fly. In that case, you will need to consider ground transport or a different airline that accepts larger animals.
Qantas Pet Travel Booking Template
Use this template to gather the information Qantas Freight will ask for when you call.
| Pet owner name | ______________________ |
|---|---|
| Contact phone | ______________________ |
| ______________________ | |
| Pet type (dog/cat) | ______________________ |
| Breed | ______________________ |
| Age | ______________________ |
| Weight (kg) | ______________________ |
| Crate dimensions (LxWxH cm) | ______________________ |
| Travel date | ______________________ |
| Origin city | ______________________ |
| Destination city | ______________________ |
| Flight number (if known) | ______________________ |
Sample (fictional): Owner: Jane Smith; Phone: 0400 123 456; Pet: Dog, Labrador, 3 years, 25 kg; Crate: 90x60x70 cm; Travel: 15 May 2025; Sydney to Melbourne; Flight QF401.