Air India Pet Transport Policy

Cabin allowed Cargo available

Air India accepts small pets in the cabin on eligible routes and larger animals in the hold as excess baggage or cargo. The airline is based at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi and is a Star Alliance member.

As India’s flag carrier, Air India is the most direct option for pet relocations to and from India. India has strict pet import controls managed by the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS). Any pet entering India must clear AQCS inspection at the port of entry, and a government-endorsed health certificate from the country of origin is mandatory.

This page covers the current pet transport policy, breed restrictions, and how to book. Policies change, so always confirm with the airline before making firm travel plans.

Policy Overview

Accepted Animals

Dogs and cats (subject to route and country restrictions)

Crate Requirements

IATA-compliant rigid container. Pet must be able to stand, sit upright, lie down, and turn around.

Size and Weight Limits

Cabin: combined weight of pet and carrier typically under 7kg. Cargo: varies by route and aircraft type.

Temperature Restrictions

Hot weather embargoes possible during peak Indian summer months. Check before booking.

Brachycephalic Breeds

Snub-nosed breeds subject to restrictions, especially during warmer months. Confirm with Air India before booking.

Cost Estimate

Cabin fees apply per sector. Cargo varies by route and weight. Contact Air India for current rates.

How to Book

Inform Air India when booking. Advance notice of at least 48 hours required. Use an IPATA-accredited agent for complex international cargo bookings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Air India allows small pets in the cabin on some routes, subject to weight limits. The combined weight of pet and carrier is typically capped at around 7kg. The carrier must fit under the seat. Confirm the current cabin pet policy for your specific route at the time of booking.

Inform Air India when making your reservation. For cargo bookings or complex international routes, use an IPATA-accredited pet transport agent who can manage the paperwork and airline coordination. Allow at least 48 hours for arrangements.

Pets entering India must be microchipped (ISO 11784/11785), have current rabies vaccination, and carry a veterinary health certificate issued by an authorised vet and endorsed by the competent government authority in the country of origin. Clearance through the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS) is mandatory at the port of entry. Import requirements are managed by India’s Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Confirm current rules with AQCS or your pet transport agent well before travel.

Snub-nosed breeds face additional restrictions on Air India, particularly during warmer months. The policy depends on route and season. Confirm with Air India before booking any flat-faced breed.

A valid veterinary health certificate (endorsed by the competent authority), ISO microchip proof, and current vaccination records are required as a baseline. For India, AQCS import clearance documentation is also needed. Other destination countries have their own requirements. Confirm the full documentation checklist with Air India or your IPATA agent.

IATA-compliant rigid crates are required for all cargo pet transport. The crate must allow your pet to stand, sit upright, lie down, and turn around without touching the sides or top. Three-sided ventilation, a water container, and live animal labels are required. Soft-sided carriers are not accepted for hold travel.

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