Air India now allows pets up to 10 kg to fly in-cabin; all you need to know

Air India’s ‘Paws on Board’ lets pets up to 10 kg travel in-cabin, making air travel easier for Indian pet parents.

• Air India allows cats and dogs up to 10 kg in-cabin on select flights
• Advance pet booking time reduced from 72 to 48 hours before departure
• Policy covers over 80 domestic and international routes with standardized fees

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Air India has rolled out a landmark update to its pet travel policy, bringing major relief to thousands of Indian pet parents who struggled with complex permissions and long waiting windows. Under the refreshed “Paws on Board” programme, the airline will now allow cats and dogs weighing up to 10 kg (including carrier) to travel inside the economy cabin on select flights. The move signals a cultural shift in Indian aviation, where demand for companion-friendly journeys has surged with more families relocating abroad and travellers planning long stays overseas.

Travelling With Pets Just Got Easier

Dreaming of sitting beside your pet at 35,000 feet instead of saying a tearful goodbye at home? Air India’s revised guidelines finally make that possible for small companions. The airline has openly acknowledged that “travelling is always better when your furry companions are part of your journey,” and the new policy reflects that sentiment with simpler procedures, clearer weight slabs, and expanded route coverage across domestic as well as international sectors.

Reduced Booking Time For Quick Plans

One of the most practical changes is the reduction in advance booking time from 72 hours to 48 hours before departure. This shorter window will help passengers making sudden travel decisions due to transfers, study admissions, or family moves. Pet bookings will continue to be confirmed only after document verification, but the overall process is designed to be faster and more transparent.

Coverage Across 80 Routes

The updated policy applies to over 80 domestic and international routes, covering popular destinations in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Air India has capped in-cabin carriage to a maximum of two pets per flight to maintain comfort for other passengers. Eligible pets must be older than eight weeks, while pregnant, critically ill, sedated, or unfit animals are not permitted to fly.

Where Pets Will Sit

Small pets will be accommodated in the last row, aisle seats of the economy cabin so crew can supervise them easily. Owners must keep pets inside carriers throughout the flight, placed under the seat in front. Emotional support animals are covered under separate norms depending on destination regulations.

Carrier Specifications You Must Follow

Air India has prescribed specific carrier requirements to ensure hygiene and safety. The carrier must be soft, leak-proof, ventilated and secure, with dimensions not exceeding 17×10×9 inches. Hard-case crates are not allowed in the cabin. Passengers are advised to carry absorbent pads and ensure pets are comfortable with confined spaces before travel day.

Rules For Heavier Pets

10–32 kg (including carrier): Travel as checked baggage in an IATA-approved hard-case crate.

Above 32 kg: Accepted only as cargo under Air India Cargo services.

Certain long-haul routes may restrict in-cabin travel due to aircraft configuration or country rules, so pet parents should check destination-specific advisories at the time of ticket purchase.

Fees For ‘Paws On Board’

Air India has standardized fees for its ‘Paws on Board’ programme, covering in-cabin and checked baggage travel for pets, making costs clear and predictable for pet parents.

In-cabin pet travel

• Domestic: Rs 7,500
• Short-haul international: $140
• Medium-haul international: $160

Checked baggage pet travel

• Domestic: Rs 16,000
• International: $350 (all routes)

All charges are non-refundable once the service is confirmed.

Why This Update Matters

Until now, Indian airlines offered limited options that often forced owners to book pets as cargo even when they were small. Air India’s revamped policy aligns the country with global trends followed by airlines in Europe and Southeast Asia. The change is expected to benefit students moving for 2026 intakes, professionals on long assignments, and travellers who avoid flying because pet boarding costs are high.

How To Book

Pet parents must request the service through Air India’s customer support or booking office at least 48 hours before departure with vaccination records, fit-to-fly certificate and required permits. The airline recommends early requests on busy sectors and during holiday seasons.

Air India Makes Flying With Pets Easier

Air India’s refreshed “Paws on Board” programme marks one of the most pet-positive reforms in Indian aviation. With in-cabin access for pets up to 10 kg, shorter booking windows, standardized fees and clear carrier dimensions, flying with cats and dogs is set to become far less stressful in 2025–2026. For Indian pet parents planning vacations or permanent moves, the skies suddenly feel a lot more welcoming.