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Air Canada is Canada’s largest air carrier, and it allows passengers to travel with their pets and service animals. In recent years, Air Canada pet policy has been updated to reflect evolving global aviation standards and increased calls for consistency, especially regarding emotional support animal designations and service animal documentation. The policy outlines clear guidelines for in-cabin pet travel and checked pet cargo, with specific provisions for service animals based on federal transportation rules.
Air Canada pet policy for international flights enforces additional requirements to comply with destination-specific laws, import regulations, and quarantine procedures. The airline also imposes restrictions related to animal type, breed limitations, kennel dimensions, and seasonal weather concerns.
Whether traveling domestically or abroad, those planning to travel with pets on Air Canada must prepare in advance. The latest guidelines on Air Canada pet travel help ensure that all passengers, including those with animals, have a safe and compliant journey.
What is Air Canada’s Pet Policy?
Air Canada’s pet policy allows small dogs and cats to travel either in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on aircraft type and route-specific regulations. As one of the most recognized pet-friendly airlines, Air Canada follows strict protocols to ensure the safety and comfort of animals during air travel, making it a popular choice for those flying with pets. Air Canada pet policy clearly separates guidelines for companion animals, service dogs, and emotional support animals (ESAs). In accordance with regulations from Transport Canada and the U.S. Department of Transportation, only trained service dogs are permitted in the cabin. Like many other major airlines that allowed ESAs in the past, Air Canada no longer accepts emotional support animals as service animals, aligning its practices with evolving global standards.
Air Canada pet travel policies require all passengers flying with pets—whether household animals or service dogs—to follow specific rules. These include approved carrier sizes, breed restrictions, health certificates, and seasonal limits. Understanding Air Canada dog policy and cat policy ensures a safe and compliant experience for everyone without any disruption.
What Types of Pets does Air Canada Allow?
Air Canada permits only domesticated dogs and cats to travel either in the cabin or as checked baggage, based on their size and the travel route. Under the Air Canada dog policy and Air Canada cat in cabin guidelines, pets must meet specific health requirements to be able to travel and carriers are mandatory. Air Canada pet in-cabin policy allows small dogs and cats to stay under the seat in approved carriers, while larger pets travel in climate-controlled cargo. Snub-nosed breeds face restrictions due to health risks. Eligibility under the Air Canada dog in cabin rules depends on breed, size, and documentation compliance.
What Documentation is Required for International Pet Travel with Air Canada?
Air Canada permits international pet travel, following strict guidelines set by the country of destination regulations and airline-specific rules. Air Canada pet policy for international flights requires health certificates, identification documents, and import/export permits. Pets transported as checked baggage or through Air Canada Pet Cargo must have pre-approved paperwork to meet biosecurity and animal welfare standards. The following documentation is typically required:
- Veterinary Health Certificate: A government-approved certificate confirming the pet’s current health and vaccinations, usually issued within ten days of travel.
- Rabies Vaccination Certificate: Under the Air Canada dog policy, proof of current rabies vaccination is required for dogs and may also be needed for cats, depending on the destination.
- Microchip Identification: A registered ISO-compliant microchip that matches the pet’s documents and enables identification for international entry.
- Import Permits: Advance country-specific permits are required for destinations with quarantine or disease control rules.
- Customs and Entry Forms: Some governments require specific animal entry forms, verified upon arrival.
Early preparation is essential for safe and compliant travel, as each country has specific entry requirements.
How much does Air Canada Charge Per Pet?
Air Canada applies varying pet fees depending on travel method and destination. Air Canada pet fee for in-cabin travel ranges from $50 to $59 CAD/USD within Canada and the U.S., and $100 to $118 CAD/USD for international flights. The Air Canada pet in-cabin policy allows only small dogs and cats in an approved soft-sided carrier.
For pets traveling as checked baggage, fees start at $105 CAD within North America and $270 CAD for international routes, in line with the Air Canada pet policy for international flights. Air Canada’s pet cargo cost depends on the animal’s size, crate dimensions, and route. All pet transport options under the Air Canada pet program prioritize safety, compliance, and efficiency.
What is the In-Cabin Pet Policy for Air Canada?
Air Canada pet in-cabin policy allows a limited number of small pets, specifically cats and small dogs, to travel in the cabin. Pets must be at least 10 weeks old, healthy, and fit comfortably in a soft-sided carrier that can be placed under their owner’s seat. Only one pet is allowed per carrier, and the animal must remain enclosed for the entire flight.
Advance booking is required, as space for pets on Air Canada is limited and confirmed at reservation. According to the Air Canada pet policy, pets cannot occupy seats or be removed from carriers while onboard. Seating restrictions apply, including bulkhead rows and exit rows, and pets are not allowed with unaccompanied minors.
The Air Canada pet policy in the cabin ensures safe and comfortable travel for pets and passengers. These rules help maintain consistent Air Canada pet travel standards on all domestic and international flights.
What is the Recommended Pet Carrier Size for In-Cabin Travel on Air Canada?
As of June 1, 2025, Air Canada only allows soft-sided carriers for in-cabin pets. The maximum Air Canada pet carrier dimensions are 27 cm (height) × 40 cm (width) × 55 cm (length), designed to fit under the seat in front of you. There is no size distinction between cats and small dogs. An Air Canada-approved pet carrier must be well-ventilated, leak-proof, securely fastened, and spacious enough for your pet to stand, lie down, and turn around comfortably. Meeting the exact Air Canada pet carrier size requirements is essential for check-in approval and smooth travel
These updated standards reflect Air Canada’s official pet policy and ensure safe, humane conditions when flying with pets on Air Canada.
Is there a Pet Weight Limit for In-Cabin Travel on Air Canada?
Yes, Air Canada enforces a strict weight limit for pets traveling in the cabin. The combined weight of the pet and its soft-sided carrier must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs). This ensures the pet can fit safely under the seat without blocking space or violating safety regulations. If the total weight exceeds the Air Canada pet weight limit, the animal must travel as checked baggage or via Air Canada Cargo. Following this rule is required for booking approval, boarding, and determining the applicable Air Canada pet fee under the airline’s pet travel policy.
Can you Bring more than One Pet In-Cabin for Air Canada?
No, Air Canada does not allow more than one pet in the cabin per passenger. Only one pet is permitted per carrier to ensure safety and comfort. However, under the checked baggage option, Air Canada allows two pets of the same species—either puppies or kittens—if they are fully weaned, between 12 weeks and 6 months old, and can comfortably share an approved carrier. The carrier must meet size, ventilation, and construction standards. Extra pet fees apply based on destination, size, and weight.
Does Air Canada’s Pet Policy Require a Health Certificate for Pet Travel?
Yes, Air Canada’s pet policy requires a health certificate for certain types of pet travel. For domestic flights, pets in the cabin or checked as baggage do not need a health certificate. However, pets shipped via cargo must have a valid veterinary health certificate, especially puppies and kittens. For international flights, most destinations require a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination, regardless of whether the pet is in the cabin, baggage, or cargo. Additional requirements may apply for countries with strict import regulations or quarantine rules. All pets must be in carriers that meet Air Canada pet carrier size and ventilation standards, particularly for in-cabin travel.
Does Air Canada Restrict Pet Travel to Certain Destinations?
Yes, Air Canada restricts pet travel to certain destinations due to government regulations, seasonal weather conditions, aircraft limitations, and international health requirements. These restrictions apply to both in-cabin and cargo transport. If you’re travelling with pets, especially travelling with pets within Canada or abroad, it’s important to review route-specific policies in advance.
Year-Round Restrictions:
Australia, Barbados, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, South Africa, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Seasonal Restrictions:
March 1- October 31: India
April 1 – November 20: Saint Lucia, Sint Maarten, Turks and Caicos
April 1 – October 31: Egypt
May 1 – September 30: Dominican Republic
May 1 – October 31: Bahamas from Cuba
May 1 – November 30: Puerto Rico, United States, from Hawaii
May 13 – October 31: Atlanta (ATL), Austin (AUS), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Fort Myers (RSW), Houston (IAH), Las Vegas (LAS), Miami (MIA), Nashville (BNA), Orlando (MCO), Palm Springs (PSP), Phoenix (PHX), Sarasota (SRQ), Tampa Bay (TPA), West Palm (PBI)
May 15 – September 30: Atlanta (ATL), Dallas (DFW), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Houston (IAH), Las Vegas (LAS), Miami (MIA), Orlando (MCO), and Phoenix (PHX).
June 1 – September 30: China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Middle East
July 1 – August 31: Greece, Israel, Italy, Mexico
July 1 – September 30: Bermuda, Morocco
November 1 – March 31: Warm-blooded animals are not accepted as cargo on select narrow-body aircraft due to unheated cargo holds.
December 15 – January 12: Holiday Restrictions (Canada and U.S.): Air Canada Cargo does not transport cats and dogs within Canada, to or from the U.S., or on international flights connecting through Canada during the holiday period. This applies to pets from breeders, kennels, freight forwarders, and those traveling as checked baggage. Cats and dogs are still accepted on direct international flights that do not involve Canada or the United States. The restriction does not apply to other animal species.
December 20 – February 15: Australia extreme heat restrictions: Transport of warm-blooded live animals to Melbourne (MEL) is temporarily prohibited due to extreme heat conditions.
Does Air Canada’s Pet Policy Allow Pets to Fly in Cargo?
Yes, Air Canada’s pet policy allows pets to fly in cargo through its AC Animals program. The Air Canada dog cargo and Air Canada animal cargo services are designed for the safe, humane transport of domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds. Pets must be at least 12 weeks old, fully weaned, and healthy. Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds may be restricted due to respiratory risks.
All animals must travel in an IATA-compliant, hard-sided kennel that meets Air Canada’s pet carrier size requirements, allowing enough space for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Required documents include a health certificate, proof of rabies vaccination (if needed), and permits for international travel. Advance booking through Air Canada Cargo is required; pets cannot be checked in at passenger counters.
Are there Temperature or Weather Restrictions for Cargo Pet Travel with Air Canada?
Yes, Air Canada enforces temperature and weather restrictions for cargo pet travel to ensure their safety. Through the AC Animals program, pet transport is suspended if ground temperatures at any point in the itinerary drop below -12°C (10°F) or exceed 29.5°C (85°F). These limits help prevent risks like hypothermia, heatstroke, and respiratory issues, especially in brachycephalic breeds. Seasonal embargoes may also apply during extreme summer or winter conditions. All cargo pet bookings are reviewed based on these climate conditions to prioritize animal welfare.
What are the Common Reasons for Denial of Pet Travel on Air Canada?
The common reasons for denying pet travel on Air Canada are listed below.
- Illness or Injury: Pets exhibiting visible signs of disease, injury, or distress are not accepted for travel to prevent medical emergencies mid-flight.
- Aggressive Behavior: Any pet exhibiting hostile or threatening behavior toward staff or passengers is considered a safety risk and is refused boarding.
- Improper Carrier: Pets placed in carriers that do not meet Air Canada’s pet carrier dimensions or structural requirements are denied entry, especially when they lack adequate ventilation, security, or space for natural movement.
- Lack of Documentation: Missing or invalid veterinary certificates, vaccination records, or destination-specific documents result in immediate refusal.
- Weather Restrictions: Extreme temperatures above 29.5°C or below -12°C halt Air Canada dog travel in cargo due to safety protocols under the AC Animals program.
- Aircraft Type Limitations: Not all aircraft types accommodate Air Canada’s dog carriers in the cabin or hold, resulting in restrictions based on route or equipment.
In cases of denial, pet owners are advised to review all travel policies in advance, ensure compliance with carrier and health standards, and arrive early to address any issues before check-in.
What is Air Canada’s Pet Policy for Emotional Support Animals?
Air Canada no longer recognizes Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals. This change follows the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) 2021 policy update, which ended the requirement for airlines to treat emotional support animals (ESAs) in the same manner as service animals. The decision was based on rising safety concerns, inconsistent documentation, and incidents involving untrained animals.
Under the current Air Canada’s pet policy, emotional support animals are treated as regular pets. They must meet all standard pet travel requirements, including fitting in an approved carrier under the seat, complying with size and weight limits, and paying the applicable pet fee. This applies to all species, regardless of medical documentation or emotional need. According to the Air Canada pet policy for emotional support, passengers traveling with ESAs must follow the same rules as those flying with cats or dogs in the cabin.
Are ESA Letters Still Required to Fly with ESAs Under Air Canada’s Pet Policy?
No, ESA letters are no longer required to fly with Emotional Support Animals under Air Canada’s current pet travel policy. Following regulatory changes in 2021, Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized as service animals and must travel as regular pets. Under Air Canada’s current pet travel policy, ESA letters do not provide any special accommodation or exemption. All ESAs must meet the airline’s standard pet requirements, including size, approved carrier type (such as soft-sided carriers that fit under the seat), and behavior rules. Depending on their size and species, ESAs can travel either in the cabin or as cargo.
Can Air Canada Deny an ESA?
Yes, Air Canada can deny an ESA if they do not meet the necessary travel requirements or if they exhibit inappropriate behavior that poses a threat to staff and other passengers. ESAs are no longer recognized as service animals and are treated as regular pets. To travel, they must meet all standard pet-in-cabin requirements, including approved carrier size, weight limits, and behavior standards. Only small, well-behaved pets in airline-approved carriers are allowed in the cabin. If your ESA does not qualify, you’ll need to arrange alternate transport or boarding. What is Air Canada Policy for Service Animals?
Air Canada policy for service animals allows only dogs to qualify as service animals. A service dog must be trained to perform specific tasks related to a physical or mental disability. This includes psychiatric service dogs, provided they meet task-based training requirements.
Under the Air Canada service dog policy, qualified service dogs are exempt from carrier restrictions and may remain at the passenger’s feet during the flight. Service dogs must be at least four months old and display appropriate behavior in the aircraft environment.
While not considered pets, service animals are subject to documentation checks, route restrictions, and space availability. They follow a separate process than the one highlighted by the Air Canada’s pet cargo program, showcasing the airline’s focus on accessibility, safety, and regulatory compliance.
What is the Procedure for Flying with a Service Dog on Air Canada?
The procedure for flying with a service dog on Air Canada is listed below.
- Confirm Eligibility. Ensure the animal strictly qualifies as a Service Dog, trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability. Only dogs are recognized as service animals under Air Canada’s guidelines.
- Complete Required Documentation. Submit the Air Canada service animal form at least 48 hours before departure. Documentation must include attestation of training, behavior, and health, meeting all Air Canada service dog requirements.
- Add the Service Dog to the Reservation: Contact Air Canada Reservations to link the Service Dog to the passenger’s booking. Details about the breed, weight, and purpose of the animal must be disclosed. This step differs from processes involving a pet in the cabin of Air Canada.
- Prepare for In-Flight Accommodations. Ensure the Service Dog fits within the passenger’s foot space without blocking aisles or emergency exits. No separate seat is allocated, so the answer to the question, “Can I buy a seat for my dog on Air Canada?” is a clear no. However, accommodations are made in accordance with safety and accessibility standards.
- Review Day-of-Travel Procedures: Arrive early for check-in and verification of documents. The animal must behave appropriately at the airport and on board the aircraft.
Service dog handlers bear full responsibility for managing their dog’s behavior throughout the flight; barking, growling, lunging, or soiling the cabin area potentially results in denial of boarding or removal. Flight personnel expect service animals, including any dogs on Air Canada, to remain calm, leashed, and under control at all times.
Do you need to Notify Air Canada in Advance for Flying with a Service Dog?
Yes, Air Canada requires advance notification when flying with a service dog. Passengers must inform the airline at least 48 hours before departure and submit the Air Canada service animal form, which confirms the dog’s training, behavior, and necessity for a disability. Unlike regular pets, service dogs do not need to be in carriers and can stay at the passenger’s feet during the flight. A valid health certificate is also required for international travel or when the destination mandates proof of vaccination or veterinary clearance.
Do Service Dogs Fly for Free with Air Canada?
Yes, service dogs fly free with Air Canada. The airline does not charge extra fees or require an additional seat for eligible service dogs. These dogs are allowed to lie at their handler’s feet and are not required to be in a carrier. This policy applies only to professionally trained service dogs assisting passengers with a physical or psychiatric disability. This policy differs from Air Canada’s standard in-cabin pet policy, which includes travel fees and carrier requirements for pets.
Are there Breed Restrictions for Service Dogs on Air Canada?
No, Air Canada does not enforce breed restrictions for service dogs. All breeds are accepted, as long as the dog meets behavioral and training requirements. This policy aligns with Canadian and international regulations that protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, including those with psychiatric or physical conditions. Service dogs are not required to travel in pet carriers and must remain at the passenger’s feet without blocking aisles or emergency exits. While breed restrictions may apply to pets traveling in the cabin or cargo, service animals are exempt. Certified service dogs fly free and receive accommodations based on their training and function.
Can you Bring more than One Service Dog on an Air Canada Flight?
Yes, Air Canada allows more than one service dog on flights to and from the United States, as long as each dog is individually trained to perform a specific task related to the passenger’s disability. For flights outside the U.S., passengers are typically limited to one service dog. On U.S. routes, up to two task-trained service dogs may travel free of charge in the cabin.
Service dogs are not required to be placed inside an Air Canada-approved pet carrier, unlike pets such as cats or dogs, which must remain enclosed in a carrier that meets Air Canada’s size and design requirements. This exemption ensures that service animals can remain accessible while still complying with safety regulations. Each dog must fit within the handler’s foot space, stay under control, and avoid blocking aisles or emergency exits.
Are there Size Restrictions to Fly with a Service Dog on Air Canada?
Yes, Air Canada enforces size restrictions for service dogs when flying in the cabin. Under the Air Canada service dog policy, the service dog must fit within the passenger’s floor space without blocking aisles or emergency exits. While service dogs are not required to travel in a pet carrier, larger dogs must be positioned in a way that does not interfere with aircraft operations or other passengers’ comfort. If the dog is too large to fit safely, alternative seating or travel arrangements may be required.
Can Air Canada Deny a Service Animal?
Yes, Air Canada can deny a service animal if safety, behavior, or documentation requirements are not met. Reasons for denial include aggressive behavior, lack of proper training, health risks to others, incomplete or missing forms, and failure to provide a required health certificate. Service animals may also be refused if their size exceeds cabin space limits based on Air Canada’s carrier size guidelines. To avoid issues, travelers must follow Air Canada’s service dog policy and ensure all requirements are met when adding a pet or service animal to a flight.
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