- Several international airlines allow pets in the cabin if they meet specific weight and carrier requirements.
- Gas expands at high altitudes, making gas-inducing foods like beans and dairy dangerous for canine comfort.
- Light meals served several hours before a flight help prevent bloating, nausea, and general restlessness.
- Early booking is necessary because most airlines strictly limit the number of pets allowed on each flight.
As pet travel continues to grow in 2026, understanding airline policies and proper canine nutrition is essential for a smooth journey. While United Kingdom carriers generally restrict cabin access to registered service animals, many international airlines, including KLM, Lufthansa, and Air France, permit small pets to travel in the passenger cabin. These pets typically must weigh less than 8kg including their carrier and remain under the seat for the duration of the flight. Because spaces for animals are limited, early booking is a standard requirement across the industry.
Nutrition experts from the brand Years emphasize that a dog’s diet significantly impacts their comfort during a flight. Changes in altitude and cabin pressure can cause gas to expand in the digestive tract, leading to bloating and distress. To mitigate these risks, owners are advised to provide light, easily digestible meals several hours before departure. Lean proteins and simple carbohydrates are recommended, while rich, fatty foods, dairy, and high-fiber vegetables like beans should be avoided. Incorporating prebiotics and probiotics can also help maintain gut balance during the stress of travel.
Experts also caution against introducing new treats or human leftovers immediately before a flight, as unfamiliar ingredients can trigger nausea or unexpected digestive reactions at high altitudes. Proper preparation involves more than just selecting the right airline; it requires a holistic approach to the animal’s physical well-being. By focusing on digestive stability and adhering to strict carrier and weight guidelines, owners can reduce the likelihood of in-flight restlessness and panting. As the trend toward pet-inclusive travel matures, experts anticipate that regulations will become more standardized, rewarding well-prepared travelers with a safer and more predictable experience.
Both Lufthansa and Air France maintain strict dimensions for in-cabin pet carriers in 2026. For both airlines, the maximum total weight—including the pet and the carrier—is 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
Lufthansa Carrier Dimensions
- Maximum Size: 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm (approx. 22 x 16 x 9 inches).
- Total Dimension: The combined length, width, and height must not exceed 118 cm.
- Type: Only soft-sided, flexible carriers are permitted. They must be leak-proof, bite-proof, and breathable.
- Compliance: The pet must be able to stand, turn, and lie down in a natural position. Note that exit row seats are prohibited as they lack the necessary under-seat storage space for carriers.
Air France Carrier Dimensions
- Maximum Size: 46 cm x 28 x 24 cm (approx. 18 x 11 x 9 inches).
- Type: Only soft-sided travel bags are accepted for in-cabin travel. Rigid crates are no longer permitted in the passenger cabin.
- Placement: The bag must be able to slide completely under the seat in front of you.
- Cabin Restrictions: Pets are generally not accepted in the Business cabin on long-haul intercontinental flights due to the configuration of the seats; in these cases, pets must travel in the hold.
Key Reminders for Both Airlines
- Age: Pets must typically be at least 15 weeks old for international travel (or 6 months for travel involving the U.S.).
- Pre-Registration: You must register your pet at least 48 to 72 hours before departure. Spaces are limited and are often granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Inside the Carrier: Once the flight boards, your pet is required to remain completely inside the closed carrier for the entire duration of the journey.
