Travelling WITH PETS

Planning a big vacation is always fun, especially when you decide to bring your four-legged companions along with you. After all, they’re part of the family too. Travelling with pets does involve making a few additional plans, but it’s worth it to be able to bond together on new adventures. Cyprus Airways knows how important our furry friends are, and as a pet-friendly airline, we’ve made travelling with pets a whole lot easier.

Written by Rachel Chrysostom

In the aircraft cabin

Cyprus Airways is committed to helping you and your pet travel together safely and comfortably. Your cat or dog is permitted to travel with you in the aircraft cabin within its own pet carrier, so long as your pooch or kitty doesn’t weigh more than 8kg, and the combined weight of your pet and its pet carrier don’t weight more than 10kg. For your and your pet’s safety, the pet carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you for the entirety of the flight, including take off, landing and disembarking.

Passengers who require assistant or guide dogs can take their service animals with them on the flight. Make sure you have the certificate confirming the dog’s special training with you, and that the animal is on a leash and muzzled throughout the flight. Passengers may tie the dog to their seat at their feet and, if available, an extra seat will be reserved for you at no extra charge.

In the aircraft hold Cats and dogs that are larger than 8kg, as well as other animals can travel on your flight in the aircraft baggage compartment within their own pet carriers that are compliant with current International Air Transport Regulations. A maximum of two animals can be in the same cage, provided they do not weigh more than 14kg.

Prepping for the flight

It’s only natural that your pup may feel some trepidation when flying, especially if they can’t be with you in the aircraft cabin. We’ve put together a few tips to make your flight as easy and stress-free as possible, both for you and your pet.

Cyprus Airways is committed to helping you and your pet travel together safely and comfortably.

Feed your pet a light meal approximately 2 hours before you depart

Make sure you take your pet out to stretch their legs and exercise prior to take off

If you have a dog breed with a flat nose such as a boxer, Bulldog, Pekingese or Pug, they often have trouble breathing. Make sure their pet carrier gets plenty of ventilation

Avoid using sedatives to calm pets prior to flying, as this may cause respiratory or cardiovascular problems due to the increase in altitude pressure

Many pets may get nervous during the flight, so make sure that they have a familiar item in their carrier, such as a favorite ball or toy

Make sure your pet has plenty of water during the flight, but be careful of leaks

Documents and Travel Information

To ensure a hassle-free journey for you and your furry companion, make sure you have all their necessary documents in order. Each country has their own regulations when it comes to pet travel. Do make sure you check the respective authorities of the country to which you are travelling for their relevant requirements. If you are travelling to the UK, bear in mind that the transportation of dogs, cats, and ferrets is only permitted for flights to London Heathrow Airport, and only as cargo.

Flight checklist:

Make sure your pet passport and official documents are updated and ready

Complete all necessary veterinarian examinations or treatments such as vaccinations, microchipping, etc. Check all restrictions and regulations that apply to your destination country

Your pet carrier is approved and the right size

Familiarise your pet with his carrier a few days before you depart

Make sure your pet has all their necessary ID tags and collar

Pack enough snacks and treats for a comfortable flight

Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before flight departure and give your pet a long walk before you go through security