Air France KLM Pet Transport: Cabin Allowances, Cargo Fees, and What's Different Between the Two

Air France and KLM are sister airlines under the Air France-KLM group, but they operate independently and their pet policies have minor differences. Both are solid choices for pet transport within Europe and on many intercontinental routes.

Cabin Travel

Air France: Small pets up to 8kg including carrier. Soft-sided carriers only in the cabin. Fee: approximately €50 within Europe, €200+ long-haul.

KLM: Small pets up to 8kg including carrier. Hard and soft carriers accepted if they fit under the seat. Fee: approximately €50 within Europe (Pet in Cabin option must be selected during booking).

Both airlines: one pet per passenger, maximum two pets in the cabin per flight.

Cargo (Excess Baggage / Cargo)

Both carriers offer pet transport as checked excess baggage (accompanied) and via their cargo divisions.

• Air France Cargo handles unaccompanied pets through its IATA-certified live animal program
• KLM Cargo operates similarly

For large dogs (over cabin weight) travelling internationally, cargo is the standard route. Fees vary by route and crate weight.

Brachycephalic Policies

Both Air France and KLM restrict brachycephalic breeds from cargo transport:

• Brachycephalic dogs and cats cannot travel in the hold as checked baggage or cargo on most routes
• They may travel in the cabin if they meet the weight limit
• Some routes have additional restrictions - verify at time of booking

Paris CDG and Amsterdam AMS as Hubs

Both airports have well-developed animal handling facilities. CDG has a dedicated animal lounge for transiting pets in cargo. AMS similarly handles transit animals within Schiphol’s cargo complex.

Key Difference: Long-Haul Cabin Allowances

Air France allows pets in the cabin on some long-haul routes (including selected transatlantic flights). KLM typically restricts cabin pets to European routes. Check specific routes when booking - this distinction matters for pets travelling to North America.

Sources: Air France and KLM published pet travel policies. Data current as of {TODAY}.