Finnair Pet Transport Policy

Cabin allowed Cargo available

Finnair is Finland’s flag carrier and a Oneworld member, operating from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL). Finnair is notable for its Asia routes - it operates some of the most direct connections between Europe and Japan, South Korea, China, and Singapore, flying over the Arctic.

This Arctic routing makes Finnair a popular choice for pets moving between Europe and Asia. However, long-haul routes have specific cargo restrictions, and Finland’s cold winters can trigger temperature embargoes.

Small pets can travel in the cabin on Finnair flights within the weight limits. Larger pets and those on long-haul routes travel as cargo. This page covers Finnair’s current pet policy - verify with the airline before booking.

Policy Overview

Accepted Animals

Small dogs, cats, and small household birds accepted in cabin (size and weight limits apply). Dogs and cats in cargo hold.

Crate Requirements

In-cabin: carrier max 55cm x 40cm x 23cm, pet + carrier under 8kg. Cargo: IATA-compliant rigid container.

Size and Weight Limits

In-cabin: combined weight (pet + carrier) under 8kg. Cargo: confirm by route and aircraft.

Temperature Restrictions

Temperature embargoes apply on certain routes and seasons, particularly long-haul. Confirm at time of booking.

Brachycephalic Breeds

Brachycephalic breeds not accepted in the cabin. Cargo acceptance is subject to route and conditions - confirm with Finnair.

Cost Estimate

In-cabin: from approximately EUR 50 per segment. Cargo: varies by route and dimensions.

How to Book

In-cabin: add when booking ticket online or contact Finnair. Cargo: contact Finnair Cargo or use an IPATA agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, if the cat and carrier combined weigh under 8kg and fit within Finnair’s carrier dimensions (55cm x 40cm x 23cm). A health certificate is required. Cabin pets are limited per flight - book early.

Finnair operates direct Helsinki-Tokyo routes. Larger pets travel as cargo. Japan has strict quarantine requirements managed by MAFF - prepare well in advance and confirm acceptance with Finnair Cargo for Japan-bound shipments.

No. Brachycephalic breeds are not accepted in the Finnair cabin. Cargo acceptance depends on route and conditions - confirm with Finnair Cargo.

Within the EU (Finland is an EU member), an EU pet passport with current microchip and rabies vaccination records is sufficient. For travel to or from non-EU countries, an Animal Health Certificate in the correct format is required.

Contact Finnair Cargo directly or use an IPATA-accredited pet transport agent. Long-haul cargo space for live animals is limited - book well in advance, and have destination country import documentation confirmed before booking cargo.

Start your journey

Get Your Free Quote

Enter your pet's details and route

Quotes are tailored to your specific journey.

No obligation. Your details are kept private and never shared.

Get a free pet transport quote

Tell us your route and pet details. We will send you a step-by-step plan and tailored quote.

Request a Quote