Iata releases global standard for pet travel in aircraft cabins

The International Air Transport Association (Iata) on Wednesday released its new set of global operational guidelines for transporting pets in aircraft cabins to end the patchwork of inconsistent rules passengers currently face when flying with cats and dogs. The move comes as airlines worldwide report rising numbers of passengers travelling with pets, prompting Iata to standardise procedures across booking, check-in, security, boarding, in-flight handling, transit and arrival. Under the new framework, cats and dogs can travel in the cabin provided they meet Iata's Container Requirement 1 (CR1) standard, which mandates enough room for an animal to stand, sit, lie down and turn around inside its carrier. Reservations will generally need to be made 48 to 72 hours ahead of departure, with health certificates, vaccination records and airline forms submitted in advance. A new booking code – PETC, for Pet in Cabin – is being formalised industry-wide. The guidelines also extend to disruption scenarios – flight delays, cancellations, diversions – instructing airlines to notify pet-travelling passengers early and coordinate with airport and veterinary authorities if animals face extended confinement. Iata said the guidelines don't override individual airline policy but are meant to reduce confusion, cut service disputes, and protect on-time performance as pet travel becomes more common.