Virgin Australia to Launch Pet-Friendly Flights: What You Need to Know

Virgin Australia to Launch Pet-Friendly Flights: What You Need to Know

 

Virgin Australia is gearing up to introduce pet-friendly flights, allowing passengers to bring small cats and dogs into the cabin on select domestic routes. This initiative, pending final regulatory approval, is expected to launch within the next 12 months.

Designated Pet-Friendly Zones

The airline plans to allocate two specific rows in the economy class of its Boeing 737 aircraft for passengers traveling with pets. These rows will not include exit rows or the extra legroom row 3. The business class cabin will remain pet-free.

Pet Travel Requirements

Passengers will be permitted to travel with one small dog or cat that is at least eight weeks old. The pet, along with its soft-sided, ventilated carrier, must have a combined weight not exceeding 8 kilograms. The carrier is required to fit comfortably under the seat in front of the passenger, ensuring sufficient room and ventilation for the animal. Throughout the flight, pets must remain confined to their carriers. The pet carrier will count as one of the passenger’s two carry-on bags and will incur an additional fee, the details of which are yet to be announced.

Booking and Pre-Flight Preparations

Bookings for traveling with pets will need to be made directly through Virgin Australia’s Guest Contact Centre. The airline is also preparing a Pet Travel Guide to offer tips and suggestions for passengers planning to travel with their pets. This guide aims to help pet owners prepare adequately for the journey, ensuring a comfortable experience for both the animals and other passengers.

Trial Phase and Feedback

Virgin Australia intends to trial this service on selected flights, with the Sydney-Melbourne route being a potential starting point. The trial phase will allow the airline to gather feedback before a broader rollout. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has approved Virgin’s procedures for pets traveling in the cabin, marking a significant step forward in implementing this service.

Considerations for All Passengers

The airline is engaging with regulators, industry partners, and stakeholder groups to address concerns such as passenger allergies and the overall in-flight experience. Discussions include advice from medical professionals and veterinarians to ensure the service is implemented thoughtfully and safely.

This move reflects Virgin Australia’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience by accommodating the needs of pet owners, while also considering the comfort and safety of all travelers.