Kenya Airways Pet Transport Policy

Cargo available

Kenya Airways does not allow pets in the passenger cabin. Pets travel as cargo in the hold, booked through Kenya Airways Cargo. The airline is based at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi and is a SkyTeam member.

Kenya Airways is the main carrier for pet relocations to and from East Africa, connecting Nairobi with destinations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Kenya’s veterinary import requirements are administered by the Kenya Veterinary Authority (KVA), and a valid government-endorsed health certificate is required for pets entering Kenya.

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, cats, and birds (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

Varies by route and aircraft. Contact Kenya Airways Cargo for current limits.

Temperature Restrictions

Check seasonal conditions for routes through Nairobi. High-altitude routing can affect temperature exposure.

Brachycephalic Breeds

Snub-nosed breeds subject to restrictions. Confirm with Kenya Airways before booking.

Cost Estimate

Varies by route, weight, and container size. Contact Kenya Airways Cargo for quotes.

How to Book

Contact Kenya Airways Cargo or an IPATA-accredited pet transport agent. Advance notice required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kenya Airways does NOT allow pets in the passenger cabin on any route. All pets must travel as cargo.

Contact Kenya Airways Cargo directly or use an IPATA-accredited pet transport agent. Provide as much lead time as possible. Live animal space is limited on most routes. Confirm the booking 48-72 hours before departure.

Pets entering Kenya must have an ISO-standard microchip, current rabies vaccination, and a veterinary health certificate endorsed by the competent authority in the country of export. The Kenya Veterinary Authority (KVA) governs import conditions. Some species may require additional permits. Confirm the current requirements with KVA or your pet transport agent before travel.

Snub-nosed breeds face additional restrictions on Kenya Airways. Always confirm with the airline before booking a flat-faced dog or cat. A vet certificate confirming fitness to fly may be required.

A valid veterinary health certificate, ISO microchip proof, and current vaccination records are required as a minimum. Pets entering Kenya require a KVA-endorsed health certificate. Other destination country requirements apply on top. Confirm the full documentation checklist with Kenya Airways Cargo 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.

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