Is Air Canada Pet Friendly?
Leaving your dog or cat behind when you travel feels like leaving a piece of your heart at home. Whether it’s a quick family visit to Calgary or a vacation in Montreal, your Pet is part of your life, and it’s only natural to want them with you.
So the question is: Is Air Canada pet-friendly?
The short answer is yes but with some important rules and conditions.
Let’s unpack that in plain English—no airline jargon, no robotic answers—just what a real Canadian pet parent needs to know.
Yes, You Can Fly with Pets on Air Canada (But Not All Pets, and Not All Flights)
Air Canada allows pets on board, but it depends on the size of your Pet, your flight destination, and how you plan to travel (in-cabin vs. checked baggage vs. cargo).
Here’s how it works:
🐾 Option 1: In-Cabin Travel for Small Pets
If your Pet is small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you, they’re welcome in the cabin!
What’s allowed?
- Cats and small dogs
- Carrier + Pet must weigh under 10kg (22 lbs)
- Soft-sided carriers are preferred (maximum 27cm x 40cm x 55cm)
- One Pet per passenger
Fee?
- Domestic flights: around $50–CAD 60
- International: usually $100–CAD 120
📝 Pro Tip: Book your Pet early—Air Canada only allows a few pets per flight in the cabin.
🦴 Option 2: Checked Baggage (Larger Pets Traveling with You)
If your dog’s a bit bigger (but still not massive), you can check them in as baggage—yes, they’ll fly safely in a pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo hold area.
What’s allowed?
- Dogs and cats that don’t fit in-cabin
- Combined weight of Pet + crate: max 45kg (100 lbs)
Fee?
- Varies by destination—typically $105–CAD 120
📌 Not available on all aircraft or routes, especially during extreme weather.
✈️ Option 3: Air Canada Cargo – For Solo or Big Pet Travelers
Air Canada Cargo is your go-to option if your Pet is flying solo (without you) or is too large for checked baggage.
Used by breeders, relocators, and international movers, this option is specialized for pet transport with temperature control, real-time tracking, and more.
📦 They even ship rabbits, birds, and exotic animals—but you’ll need to call ahead.
So, What About International Flights?
Good question.
When flying internationally with a pet, you’ll often need:
- Updated vaccination & rabies certificates
- A health certificate from a vet (within 10 days)
- Sometimes, an import permit (depending on the country)
🚫 Not all destinations allow pets in-cabin. For example, the UK doesn’t accept pets in cabins or as checked baggage—only via cargo.
Air Canada Pet Travel Requirements: Quick Checklist
✅ Pet must be healthy and calm (no excessive barking or whining)
✅ Carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and secure
✅ No sedated pets (Air Canada strongly discourages sedation)
✅ Book your pet slot early—first come, first serve
Real Pet Parent Tip
“I flew from Vancouver to Toronto with my cat, Lucy, and Air Canada was surprisingly easy to deal with. Just make sure your carrier fits under the seat—they’ll check!” — Jenna R., Toronto.
A Few Don’ts to Remember
❌ No snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dog breeds in checked baggage (e.g., bulldogs, pugs)
❌ No pets under 10 weeks of age
❌ Don’t assume your Pet is automatically accepted—always call ahead
How Does Air Canada Compare to Other Airlines?
Compared to other Canadian airlines like WestJet or Porter, Air Canada is relatively pet-friendly, mainly because of:
- Their cargo option for solo pets
- Their in-cabin availability on many routes
- Transparent, easy-to-follow policies
Final Thought: Should You Fly with Your Pet on Air Canada?
If your Pet is your travel buddy, Air Canada makes keeping them by your side possible and practical. It’s not just a marketing claim—it’s a thoughtfully designed system, from in-cabin seating to international cargo transport.
Of course, flying with pets takes planning. But with Air Canada’s clear guidelines, helpful staff, and widespread routes, you and your furry companion can confidently take to the skies.
So, toss in a leash and some treats next time you pack your bags for a trip. ✈️🐶🐾
