Top 5 Airlines in India & Their Pet Policies (2025 Guide)
Flying with your pets in India is no longer an afterthought. Airlines have started recognising pets as family members, not cargo. However, not all airlines in India have pet-friendly policies, and among those that do, the rules vary drastically. This article cuts through the noise and gives you a precise comparison of the top 5 airlines in India that allow pets, along with detailed airlines pet policies. Understanding each airline’s pet policies is crucial for a smooth flying experience.
When considering flying with your pet, it is essential to check each airline’s pet policies to avoid any last-minute surprises.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with the airlines pet policies before your flight.
1. Air India
As you navigate Air India’s airlines pet policies, keep in mind that preparation is key for your pet’s comfort and safety.
For travelers, understanding the airlines pet policies can help in making informed decisions.
Air India remains the only full-service carrier in India with a fairly transparent pet policy. You can take small cats and dogs in the cabin, provided the combined weight of the pet and carrier doesn’t exceed 5 kg.
Air India has a reputation for being accommodating. Still, it’s essential to contact customer service well in advance, as slots for in-cabin pets are extremely limited (only two pets are allowed per flight).
Policy Snapshot:
- Cabin: Allowed (small pets up to 5 kg including carrier)
- Cargo Hold: Allowed (for larger pets)
- Documents Required: Health certificate (within 72 hours of travel), vaccination records
- Booking Process: Must be booked in advance via customer care, not online
- Fees: Approx. ₹1000-₹5000 based on weight and sector
These airlines’ pet policies can significantly impact your travel experience, so be sure to research ahead of time.
2. SpiceJet
As you explore your options among different airlines, closely examine their airlines pet policies to find the best fit for you and your pet.
SpiceJet’s “SpiceCare” program allows pets to travel in the cargo hold under a temperature-controlled environment. They do not allow pets in the cabin, which may be a concern for pet parents worried about separation anxiety. However, their cargo service is often considered safer than that of other budget carriers due to their specific handling SOPs. This option is better suited for larger pets or if you’re travelling to regions where other airlines don’t operate.
Policy Snapshot:
- Cabin: Not Allowed
- Cargo Hold: Allowed (domestic sectors only)
- Documents Required: Health and vaccination certificates (issued within 48 hours of travel)
- Booking Process: Needs to be booked through SpiceJet Cargo Division
- Fees: Based on weight and sector; ₹5000 onwards
3. Vistara
Vistara markets itself as a premium airline but is surprisingly conservative when it comes to pet policies. While in-cabin travel is still not available, they allow pet travel through cargo on specific routes and with certain aircraft types. The lack of direct visibility into their cargo operations can be a deterrent.
However, Vistara’s staff is generally more responsive in assisting with the booking process, making it slightly less stressful for pet parents who are new to the process.
Policy Snapshot:
- Cabin: Currently NOT Allowed
- Cargo Hold: Allowed (through partner cargo services)
- Documents Required: Updated health and vaccination certificates
- Booking Process: Must coordinate through Vistara customer service; subject to aircraft type
- Fees: Varies; typically starts from ₹6000 upwards
When it comes to Vistara, their airlines pet policies may not be as flexible as others, so plan accordingly.
4. IndiGo
IndiGo does not have a dedicated pet travel policy. They don’t allow pets in the cabin or directly handle pet bookings in cargo.
The only possible way to fly with a pet is through third-party cargo logistics providers. The process is convoluted and inconsistent. This is not ideal for first-time pet flyers or for those who want assurance and accountability directly from the airline.
Considering airlines pet policies is essential, especially if you have specific needs for your pet.
IndiGo’s airlines pet policies are limited, so alternative arrangements may need to be made.
Policy Snapshot:
- Cabin: Not Allowed
- Cargo Hold: Only via partner services (limited sectors)
- Documents Required: Standard health certificate, vaccination proof
- Booking Process: Not through IndiGo directly; must approach third-party cargo agents
- Fees: Varies greatly; cargo partners decide rates
5. Akasa Air
Akasa Air is the latest entrant in India’s aviation scene and is leading the way with a more flexible pet policy compared to its older competitors. They allow small pets up to 7 kg (including the carrier) in the cabin, which is a huge plus.
Additionally, they are the only airline that offers online booking for pet travel, making the process more transparent. For larger pets, they offer cargo travel with dedicated support.
Policy Snapshot:
- Cabin: Allowed (small pets up to 7 kg including carrier)
- Cargo Hold: Allowed for larger pets
- Documents Required: Health and vaccination certificates (within 48-72 hours)
- Booking Process: Can be done online during ticket booking or via customer care
- Fees: ₹1500 for cabin; cargo fees based on weight
Essential Considerations for Flying with Pets
Regardless of the airline, there are some non-negotiable points to remember:
- Health Certificates & Vaccination Records: Must be issued close to the travel date (48-72 hours).
- Carrier Size & Type: Airline-approved IATA carriers are mandatory. Soft carriers are generally not accepted.
- Breed Restrictions: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like Pugs, Persian Cats, Bulldogs may face additional restrictions due to breathing concerns.
- Advance Booking is Critical: In-cabin slots are highly limited (usually 2 pets per flight). Cargo bookings require at least 72-hour notice.
- Airport Reporting Time: Expect to report at least 3 hours early for domestic flights to handle pet-related documentation and security checks.
Quick Comparison Table
| Airline | In-Cabin Allowed | Cargo Hold Allowed | Booking Method | Fees (Approx) |
| Air India | Yes (up to 5 kg) | Yes | Customer Care | ₹1000-₹5000 |
| SpiceJet | No | Yes | SpiceJet Cargo | ₹5000+ |
| Vistara | No | Yes (Limited) | Customer Care | ₹6000+ |
| IndiGo | No | Yes (3rd Party) | Through Cargo Agents | Varies |
| Akasa Air | Yes (up to 7 kg) | Yes | Online/Customer Care | ₹1500+ |
Conclusion
Akasa Air has made strides in accommodating pets, which is reflected in their airlines pet policies.
India’s aviation industry is slowly adapting to the growing number of pet travelers, but we are still far from global standards. Air India and Akasa Air currently lead the way with the most transparent and accessible policies for in-cabin pet travel. For pet parents with larger pets or those flying with budget constraints, SpiceJet’s cargo service is a solid option, provided you’re okay with pets flying in the hold.
For now, the golden rule is: call and confirm everything, every time. Online information is often outdated, and real-time coordination with airline staff is non-negotiable when flying with pets.
To summarize, knowing the airlines pet policies is essential for any pet owner planning to travel.
