As pets become increasingly cherished by family members, China's airlines are rolling out pet-in-cabin services to cater to travelers unwilling to part with their furry friends. From streamlined booking processes to enhanced safety protocols, here's a concise guide to navigating air travel with pets.

Pet Transport Options

Pet Cargo

Airlines such as Hainan Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Shandong Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines have introduced "pet cargo" services, where pets are placed in specially designed, oxygenated compartments.

In-Cabin Pet Travel

For a more convenient and comforting experience, airlines like Hainan Airlines, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Juneyao Airlines and Shenzhen Airlines now allow pets to travel in the cabin. Your dog or cat can accompany you in a carrier, ensuring they are within sight and reach throughout the flight.

 

Preparing Your Pet for the Flight

Pet carrier

To qualify for in-cabin travel, pets must be small enough to fit in airline-approved carriers placed under the seat. China Eastern, China Southern, and Hainan Airlines allow carriers no larger than 35cm (length) × 28cm (width) × 24cm (height), which excludes larger pets, though Juneyao Airlines allows pet containers of up to 58cm × 37cm × 35cm for pets under 10kg. 

As for pet cargo travel, larger containers (90cm × 60cm × 66cm) are allowed. The total weight, including the pet and container, must not exceed 32kg. The carrier must also comply with IATA Live Animals Regulations.

Health and Documentation

Before booking your flight, make sure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date. Airlines typically require proof of rabies vaccination and an Animal Health Certificate issued by a government-approved veterinarian or animal quarantine agency. Additionally, you may need to sign an Application for Pets Transportation.

Booking

Pet transport services are often limited, so it's essential to book early, especially during peak travel seasons. 

Prepare all required documents well in advance, and check with your airline for any specific paperwork needed for pet transport. 

Airline-Specific Pet Travel Rules and Services

Hainan Airlines

• In-Cabin Pet Services: Pets in the cabin must wear a muzzle and diaper throughout the flight, and the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
• Online Booking: Available through the Hainan Airlines app.
• Additional Services: Pet insurance and full-service care options are available.

China Southern Airlines

You are allowed to book a seat for your pet.

Air China

Only one pet per passenger is allowed. Pregnant or newborn pets are not accepted. 

China Eastern Airlines

Pets may not be allowed to travel in the cargo hold if the temperature at any transit point is below -12 C or above 30 C.

Sichuan Airlines

The airline offers special vehicles to transport pets to and from the airport. Only dogs and cats are allowed, with a limit of one pet per person.

 

Pricing and Fees

Pet transport fees vary based on the airline, route, and whether the pet travels in-cabin or in the cargo hold. Most airlines charge based on weight, at 1.5 percent of the economy class ticket price per kilogram of the pet and carrier. 

Some airlines, like China Southern, use fixed rates depending on flight distance and pet weight, with fees ranging from 398 yuan ($55) to 1,398 yuan. In-cabin pet services all cost above 1,200 yuan. Confirm specific charges with your airline when booking.

Picking up Your Pet

Many airports have designated pet pick-up areas. Some airports offer direct pet delivery services, allowing you to reunite with your pet at baggage claim. After landing, monitor pets for stress symptoms such as excessive panting or lethargy. Provide water and a quiet space for recovery.