Pets On A Plane

As Americans, we tend to be a bit obsessive about our pets. One survey showed that 70% of people would sacrifice "alone time" with a significant other for their dog, and 73% of pet owners get upset when people tell them how to raise their animals. So, it makes sense that our desire to be with our pets brings a rise in people wanting to fly with their furry (and sometimes not so furry) loved ones.

While many commercial airlines have strict requirements, often private air travel is a much easier option when traveling with pets, especially if you plan to travel with multiple animals at one time. However, there are still a couple considerations that we must make before taking to the air with Fido or Fluffy.

1. Vaccinations should always be up-to-date. It's best to consult a veterinarian if you are unsure how your pet might respond to tight quarters for extended periods of time, the sometimes stressful nature of aircraft noise, and the effect of altitude and low air pressure. Also, be aware that at a minimum, cats and dogs must be at least 8 weeks old, weaned, and show proof of a rabies vaccination. Each US state may also have its own set of additional rules and regulations regarding pet travel, which are partly determined by the Center for Disease Control, so it is always best to check which rules apply to you before traveling.
2. Determine which aircraft is the best choice for your animals' needs. For instance, the Challenger 300 has a flat floor, which might be best if you have a large dog that will need to lie down. Knowing the amount of time you will be in the air, you need to ensure your pet is provided for in terms of food, water, bedding, and potential waste disposal. It's always a good idea to discuss with your service provider which aircraft might be most beneficial to your needs and weigh the costs accordingly.

More and more small aviation operators are embracing the idea of traveling with pets. NetJets even started a popular Instagram hashtag called #NetPets where you can see the most adorable pictures of animals during air travel. Some providers have seen as much as an 86% jump in pet travel since 2019, which mostly includes dogs (with occasional birds and even rabbits), and cat travel alone rose a whopping 357% in the same time! As such, it might be a good idea for companies to train in-cabin personnel in pet first-aid and behavior, consider partnerships with pet-friendly hotels and transport companies, and perhaps even develop handmade sleep mats and toys for our special guests. It's always a good business practice to treat your customer's desires with care, and animals remain consistently high on the list of importance for so many dedicated pet owners. Treat them both with care.