Australia’s new pet-friendly flights: what you need to know
Virgin Australia has launched the country’s first pet-friendly commercial cabin, allowing certain cats and small dogs to travel in the airplane cabin for the duration of the flight. The move marks a significant shift in domestic air travel, giving pet owners an option to keep their furry companions close in the air. Here’s a practical guide to the rules, routes, and safety considerations you’ll want to know before booking.
Which animals are allowed in the cabin?
Only cats and small dogs can travel in the cabin. The combined weight of the pet and its carrier must not exceed 8 kilograms. This limit helps ensure that pets remain safely tucked under the seat in front of you for the entire journey.
Important restrictions you should know
Several rules govern eligibility and safety. Pets must be older than eight weeks, up to date with vaccinations, and may require a veterinary certificate in some cases. Dogs should not have given birth within seven days of the flight. Some breeds are restricted by government regulations; in Queensland and Victoria, five breeds are prohibited for dogs in the cabin.
Who can bring a pet on board?
Virgin Australia will assign a passenger to one of four pet-friendly seats in the cabin: 18A, 18F, 20A and 20F. The seats are separated to minimize direct contact between pets. Not every passenger can bring a pet—booking is limited to select routes and certain conditions apply. Cats, for example, are only permitted on Melbourne to Sunshine Coast routes. Social situations on board are kept calm and predictable by design.
Routes and booking rules
Currently, the pet-friendly option is available on specific routes: Melbourne to Sunshine Coast and Melbourne to Gold Coast. The cat-in-cabin option is restricted to Melbourne–Sunshine Coast. If you plan to travel with a pet, you must book in advance by calling Virgin’s Guest Contact Centre, and bookings should be made at least 72 hours before take-off. Note that some passengers will be ineligible to book a pet spot—for example, solo travelers with a baby, unaccompanied minors, or travelers accompanied by an assistance animal.
Can pets roam the cabin?
No. Pets must remain inside their carrier under the seat in front for the entire flight. They cannot be taken out in airports or during the flight. There are dedicated animal relief areas in airports for when you land, but there is no onboard toilet for pets.
What happens if a pet needs the toilet mid-flight?
Virgin Australia notes that accidents cannot be addressed until you reach the destination’s animal relief area. To mitigate incidents, owners should pack absorbent mats, wipes, and plastic bags to manage any mishaps inside the carrier during the journey.
Allergies and other passenger considerations
Allergen exposure from cats and dogs is typically tied to direct contact with fur and saliva. Since pets stay in carriers beneath the seat, allergen risks are expected to be low. The airline emphasizes that the cabin’s ventilation system reduces exposure further by circulating air top-to-bottom and filtering it multiple times per hour. If you have severe allergies, inform the airline in advance so they can advise on best seating choices and any additional precautions.
Is flying with a pet safe?
Air travel poses certain health risks for some animals due to cabin pressure, temperature and altitude. Virgin Australia may require a veterinary certificate for pets with medical conditions, recent surgery, recent injuries, brachycephalic breeds, pregnancy, or if the pet is very young or older than 12 years. Some conditions may warrant vaccination, sedatives, or other precautions. Always consult with your veterinarian before booking a cabin flight for your pet.
How to secure a pet-in-cabin spot
To reserve a seat for your pet, contact Virgin Australia’s Guest Contact Centre and book at least 72 hours before departure. Availability is limited, so plan ahead. If your travel needs don’t align with the current routes, you may need to wait for more flights to offer the service or consider alternatives such as private charter options that may have different rules.
How this compares with overseas practices
Most international carriers with pet-friendly policies require the animal to stay in a carrier and remain under the seat. Some private jet operators permit pets in the cabin without carriers. Virgin Australia’s approach mirrors common safety standards used by carriers around the world, with added emphasis on seat separation to minimize contact between animals.
Practical tips for a smooth journey
- Choose a comfortable, well-ventilated carrier that fits below the seat and allows your pet to lie down flat.
- Line the carrier with absorbent mats and carry wet wipes; have plastic bags handy for any accidents.
- Confirm vaccination status and bring any required veterinary certificates.
- Inform the airline of your pet’s needs in advance, especially if your pet has allergies or medical conditions.
- Plan for contingencies at the destination, including animal relief areas and local regulations.
The launch of pet-friendly cabins in Australia marks a notable shift for domestic travel, offering pet parents greater flexibility. By understanding the rules, routes, and safety considerations, you can ensure a calmer, more convenient journey for you and your furry companion.
