Bringing a pet on a commercial flight isn’t always a great option. Unless your pet is a registered service animal, they may have to fly in the cargo hold. While flying in the cargo hold isn’t unsafe, some pets (and their owners) may find the arrangement stressful. What if you fly private? Is flying with pets on a chartered jet permissible? The short answer is yes. Take a look at some of the details and caveats you should know before booking a flight with your furry companion.
Are All Pets Allowed on Private Jets?
Unlike commercial airlines, private jet charter companies do allow pets without service animal or emotional support status to fly in the cabin. More specifically, the vast majority of charter companies permit passengers to bring cats or dogs on board.
You should always verify that your pet is allowed on board in advance. That way, you can ensure that you’re compliant with any pet policies or restrictions on the day of your flight. This is especially important if you have an exotic pet, which may warrant special approval regardless of the company’s overall pet policy.
Do Private Jet Charter Companies Have Pet Travel Policies?
While private charter companies are often much more lax about pets than commercial airlines are, individual companies are likely to still have their own pet travel policies. For example, they may require:
- FAA-approved travel kennels
- Proof of up-to-date vaccinations and other health records from your vet
- The payment of a pet fee to cover any damage or additional cleaning resulting from your pet
- Tags on your pet or carrier with identification and contact information
If you have a registered service animal, certain restrictions do not apply. For example, the company can’t charge a pet fee for a service animal because service animals are considered disability accommodations, not pets.
Does In-Cabin Behavior Make a Difference?
Some private jet charter companies will have a policy that pets must stay in their carriers for the duration of the flight. Will all pilots and private flight crew members enforce this particular rule? Not necessarily.
If your pet is calm and shows good behavior throughout your flight, you may be allowed to let them out of their carrier. However, you should expect to keep them close to you, preferably by keeping them on a leash. You may also be asked to put them in their carrier during take-off and landing for safety reasons.
Tips for Flying Private with Pets
If you’re planning to book a private jet with your pet, make sure you verify all rules and regulations ahead of time. Let the company know that you plan on bringing your pet and discuss requirements and expectations. That way, you won’t be surprised on the day of your flight.
You may also want to discuss calming medications or supplements with your vet. It is not advisable to give your pet new supplements without consulting your vet first.
Ready to take to the sky with your furry companion? Contact North Dallas Aviation today and let’s discuss your trip.