Travel

Pet-friendly flights

Travel

Posted by: Thom3268

15th Feb 2025 04:07pm

Virgin Australia committed to allowing pets onboard early 2024, and is set to be officially introduced in March.
There seems to be strong opinions either way as it caters to those with pets but may be an inconvenience to those without.
Was this decision inevitable and a sign of the times (following suit with airlines around the world) or should it be reconsidered?


Comments 86

Pat
  • 3rd Apr 2025 04:32pm

I have a small assistance dog, well trained in all aspects, and if travelling I take mats for him to use for toilet if necessary, treat them the same as a dirty baby diaper, in the bin.

Jude30693100
  • 27th Mar 2025 11:13am

I would find a pet friendly plane ride much more fun and would enjoy the company of furry friends. It would break up the monotony of the time in the air. However, I have allergies and so does my daughter so that might make things tricky. Cleaning up after animals might also be difficult and would need some consideration. Then there are those people with fears of pets who might be uncomfortable on a plane. But I believe this service should be available for those with special needs if the other variables can be considered.

cbulger
  • 24th Mar 2025 02:08pm

Love the idea. I'm sure there will be rules and regulations to be followed. Other countries allow it and they have a system worked out, I'm sure Virgin has put a lot of thought in it and looked at other systems in place that have pets already on flights.

Caperteewaratah
  • 22nd Mar 2025 01:45pm

I can't imagine how Virgin would be able to manage animals on a flight - with barking, hissing of cats and who knows what other animals they are thinking of allowing on - birds maybe? (bird flu risk) then there is the animals needing toileting - all sounds a bit too much to deal with to me.
I am sure the animals would maybe better behaved than some peoples kids or some bad behaved adults - but it doesn't seem very realistic to offer this.

Anna-Goanna
  • 21st Mar 2025 10:26pm

Depending how long they will be on the flight and not being able to urinate or poo and if they did, it would stink badly. I love animals!!
How would it be if passengers had their dogs on a leash and others had their cats in cages? It wouldn't be an enjoyable flight. Something would have to be worked out so that the animals would be happy along with the passengers. I wouldn't mind sitting next to a dog or a cat for that matter.

bc
  • 21st Mar 2025 08:52pm

I love the idea - I am sure it would be monitored and most people who would care that much to take a pet on a plane would be good owners. I would love to take my golden retriever on a trip with me. Most animals are better behaved than a lot of kids these days!!

Skylark
  • 21st Mar 2025 07:17pm

I'd rather sit next to/near a pet than a screaming toddler or a seat kicking child.

mrspxl
  • 21st Mar 2025 04:55pm

Unless a guide dog or assistance animal, it's a no from me. Not enough room for humans on a plane as it is. Then there are those people with allergies and those who are uncomfortable around strangers dogs.

doxdeb
  • 21st Mar 2025 01:24pm

I love the idea. I would love to take my pets on a plane but I think he would freak out and probably bark a lot so off putting for other people

Superstar666$
  • 21st Mar 2025 12:45pm

Good idea except for travellers with allergies

Zanyt
  • 20th Mar 2025 08:13pm

This has to be the most stupid idea ever. I am highly allergic to dog hair so I would not be able to flight on a airplane that has had pets in the cabin as not matter how hard they clean the airplane (airlines do not clean between flights) there would be some hair still in the cabin. If there is just 1 hair in the cabin and it flies and lands on me I am in trouble. If Virgin bring this in I will not be flying with them again.

Caperteewaratah
  • 22nd Mar 2025 01:42pm
This has to be the most stupid idea ever. I am highly allergic to dog hair so I would not be able to flight on a airplane that has had pets in the cabin as not matter how hard they clean the...

What happens to you if there is one dog hair on someones clothing but the dog is left at home? Not trying to be smartie, but this happens all the time in public places, when people move around. I know I have a cat and brush him daily, but sometimes his hair may be on my work uniform - its a bit unavoidable.
I start sneezing/get runny eyes, if there are synthetic perfume puffers or sprays used in rooms I have to stay in for work, and one place I stay at regularly, I have asked them not to spray that stuff in the room just open the window, and also take the puffer thing out of the room. (Can't understand why businesses use those horrible smelling things) fresh air is preferable.
So I suppose it depends on how Virgin configure this pet flying - surely there would have to be a place at the back for the animal to be put separate to cats and dogs maybe otherwise there would be a lot of noisy animals - and as someone else mentioned - animals urinating and defecating - would not be pleasant smell in the cabin.
I can't see it working really.

jjdrer
  • 20th Mar 2025 07:45pm

The only dogs allowed in the cabin are guide dogs / therapy dogs which are tethered next to the disabled person. Some people have companion cats instead of dogs. They must be in approved cages. All animals over age must have a vet check and the certificate shown.

daisy
  • 20th Mar 2025 07:21pm

I love the idea,

dee
  • 20th Mar 2025 04:26pm

I don't like the idea at all.

kitkat16
  • 20th Mar 2025 04:12pm

Hopefully the animals are on their best behaviour,l just hope they aren't too scare of the weird noises, lots of other animals, people and what else there is.
l would most certainly not be taking animal on board a plane maybe a mouse in cage.

MariaG
  • 20th Mar 2025 02:36pm

There is always another way of looking at things.
I'll put forward this question...people who have issues with odours.. Do you think that guide dogs and humans are any less flatulent, or stinky?
I doubt it will be a case of having a plane load of people with pets. There may be a few. I would hope things will be done the right way.
It's not as if it will be like a bus in South America full of people and their pigs, hens and goats going to market.
Wait and see, I say. I truly feel this is a storm in a teacup.

boags
  • 20th Mar 2025 02:14pm

I'll be booking a non animal flight
The thought of a dog with flatulence in an enclosed space like an aircraft is enough to turn you green.
On that subject, where would they be doing their business?

site77
  • 20th Mar 2025 12:38pm

This change can be seen as inevitable in some aspects. Relationships with pets have evolved, and many now see them as companions on the same level as family members. Travel habits have also changed, especially post-pandemic, with more people valuing flexibility and convenience, and a growing desire for personalized services. In this context, allowing pets on board is almost a customer requirement — particularly for those who prioritize the well-being of their pets.

ab
  • 20th Mar 2025 10:18am

The decision probably came out of a brainstorming session under the heading of ‘product differentiation.’ LOL

I think there are enough odours contributing to the pot pourri of smells trapped in an aeroplane, without adding pet odours to the mix.

IMO the idea is ill-considered. Virgin Australia have spent the time leading up to implementation, realising that the devil is in the detail. Some of the challenges to overcome include:
• pet's size
• safety concerns for all passengers
• potential allergic reactions
• maintaining a clean, peaceful environment on board
• the animal’s welfare
• quarantine laws.

These issues are not insurmountable. But dealing with them will dictate that travelling with pets for holidays will be limited to domestic flights where quarantine laws will be less of an issue.
International flights may not be practical right now. I know some people are thinking ‘what about guide dogs.’ Guide dogs often receive exemptions or expedited processes under international laws, as their role is vital and heavily regulated to ensure they meet health and safety standards. Extending similar provisions to all pets could become complex, especially with different countries having different vaccination requirements, health certificates, and quarantine durations.

I suspect Virgin will be using a ‘suck it and see’ approach only for domestic flights.

Jeeves01
  • 20th Mar 2025 09:01am

No chance for me to ever fly with an airline that has pets passengers with pets. Yuk. There is no way in the world that a pet is not going to be weeing or pooing when it gets the urge. Great. Just imagine a long haul flight full of dogs and cats....just fantastic...gee I can't wait. Feed them in the aisle, clean up their poo, hair over the seats ...oh goody goody.
What a great idea Virgin....I hope you let people know if the flight is a pet friendly one so people can choose not to fly on it.

franken
  • 19th Mar 2025 07:51pm

The topic will always bring out the good and the bad if pets can accompany their master on any travel means. I think if the pet was completely isolated from the other passengers, then that would be Ok.

Emily3267
  • 19th Mar 2025 07:39pm

I think we should set up a special area to house them, after all, some people don't like pets. And when purchasing tickets, passengers should be allowed to choose whether they would like to travel with their pets.

chocogirl
  • 19th Mar 2025 03:52pm

I do not think thos is a good idea. No thought about people who may be allergic to animals. Also some animals may get scared or startled and get disruptive.

Libbazz
  • 19th Mar 2025 02:59pm

Many people have allergies these days which can be anywhere between mild or severe, so having animals in an airplane would not be the best idea considering the other passengers' allergies that are on the flights. You would need a registered nurse on each flight in case of an emergency due to someone allergic reaction to the animals. Don't think that is going to happen!?!

jtmorri
  • 19th Mar 2025 01:50pm

A pet-friendly policy has its place on a domestic flight. As not all the detail is out with regard to area on the plane and how it will be incorporated, we really can't say if it would be a concern and require further consideration or scrapping entirely.
I have never holidayed with a pet. Our pets were boarded or looked after by family or friends.

I don't view a guide dog or special needs "working" dog as a pet and they are a necessity and should already be allowed on both domestic and international flights as they are trained and well behaved.

An owner with a pet should be booking a specific area together within the plane. Pets should have to be within a cage for the entire flight. Another passenger without a pet should not be inconvenienced or imposed upon by someone else's pet, which includes odours, noise, aggression, behavioural problems. Will the airline staff require animal training and possibly able to sedate a pet experiencing anxiety? Dogs have very sensitive hearing and will changes in air pressure cause problems? Will airline staff be expected to assist the owner with the pet's needs? In the event of an incident, crash, emergency etc. will owners be told they have to leave their pets behind

I would assume the airlines such as Virgin offer only a few pet owner and pet seatings per flight as too many pets together of different kinds could causes issues. I would also expect the pet fare to be higher than a human fare since special arrangements and equipment to tether and secure would be required in a specially built area. I doubt all breeds of pets would be allowed due to size and weight restrictions with an aeroplane. If a pet for some reason causes injury/illness to another passenger, then who does the victim sue (bites, asthma attack, respiratory distress)? I think it could end up being a legal minefield.

I can see travellers with pet hair allergies and others with a phobia toward a certain animal not being happy to be included on such flights, so the airline will need to be upfront about pets being onboard when a person is booking their flight. It would be a shame is people were inconvenienced with their travel due to a pet-friendly flight.

BCafeS15
  • 19th Mar 2025 01:14pm

I don't mind as long as the dog doesn't fart and is toilet trained. What if you're allergic to dogs and cats?

dollymay
  • 19th Mar 2025 12:42pm

I think that's great, good on you virgin for allowing peoples pets to fly with their owner, there are many different reasons an owners wants their pets with them, some reasons could be there pet is old and needs medication, and pet might fret, a strong bond between pet and owner, owner doesn't trust anyone to look after their pet, I think if the animal is well behaved, had a bath, well why not allow them on the plane,

Gordo
  • 19th Mar 2025 12:10pm

I'm all in favour of pet Friendly flights. The onus to look after their pets is directly in the hands of the pet owner. In context, there are ZERO cases of pets Hijacking an aircraft, Abusing aircrew, Getting drunk while in transit or Causing grief to other passengers. . . .

normarand
  • 19th Mar 2025 11:20am

I'd only be comfortable with it if the pet-friendly flights had a dedicated area in the plane. There is little or no room in a normal cabin for even more carry on baggage and I wouldn't like to be seated beside someone who had a pet on board. Imagine if the dog started to bark because it was scared, or another dog started barking and set it off. I love dogs and cats and all animals, but I don't think a plane is the place for them, unless they are a guide dog or assistance dog.

intelligent
  • 19th Mar 2025 10:55am

i DON 'T MIND EITHER WAY BECAUSE SOME PERSONS ARE TOO SENTIMENTAL AND THEY CAN ENJOY THEIR HOLIDAYS MORE WITH THEIR PET RATHER THAN OTHERS

Scooby68
  • 19th Mar 2025 10:17am

I personally think if it a service animal it is ok. But a general pet shouldn't be allowed as they have put height and size restrictions, so some people can take their pets and othets can not.

Glenn60
  • 19th Mar 2025 08:49am

Definitely a good idea

pumikin
  • 18th Mar 2025 11:15pm

Never ever want to travel on a flight that has pets in human space. Sorry but they are pets. I don't like dining at places that allow pets either especially when their owners allow them to sit on human chair and have no regard for those who may be allergic.

EvelynB
  • 18th Mar 2025 08:16pm

I don’t agree to fly with pets on board when I fly as they can be disruptive

dollymay
  • 19th Mar 2025 12:46pm
I don’t agree to fly with pets on board when I fly as they can be disruptive

kids can be very disruptive, I was on a long flight once and the kid screamed constantly, i sometimes think dogs are more well behaved then children

jatz50
  • 18th Mar 2025 04:52pm

I am a big dog lover but when it comes to flights with dogs or cats in the plane with me, I am not for it at all. I have heard that is only for the smaller type dogs and apparently they have to be in a carry bag which fits under your seat. In some ways I realise people will love this idea but you do have to think of the people that have allergies to animal fur or even if they are afraid of a dog or cat. You can't control when they need to go to the toilet either which could be a great upset if you have a good sense of smell. Can you imagine if a dog did get out of the carrier bag? It could happen.

nutbush
  • 18th Mar 2025 04:35pm

Good on virgin for doing this pets are great

des
  • 18th Mar 2025 04:09pm

As an owner of 2 small dogs I think it's a great idea as long as there were particular seats reserved for people travelling with pets. I would hate to see other paying passengers being inconvenienced by them. Also they would have to be well behaved both passenger and pet. Hubby has depression and it would be a bonus to bring a pet along for the flight. I think short domestic flights, not international.

Radda
  • 18th Mar 2025 03:59pm

Would love to see more cats than dogs on the flights as they are not vocal as opposed to dogs. I would probably feel uncomfortable sitting next to a big dog who would bark a lot. Cats on the other hand are welcome to sit next to me, they would make my flight feel shorter (if the owner lets me pat them 🫢)

musicmum
  • 18th Mar 2025 03:18pm

It really depends on the dog (and owner), I think for me personally I would love a dog to pat and keep me calm. But what happens if all the dogs start barking and doing their business everywhere? I don't own a pet but I take my neighbours dog for walks and she gets anxiety and shakes when you take her in a car. As for other pets, might get a bit smelly. Maybe for short flight trips pets will be okay but cannot see it working for long haul flights.

mare
  • 18th Mar 2025 03:13pm

Seems to be a good move

Tragk
  • 18th Mar 2025 02:20pm

I think it needs to be reconsidered to an extent, at least until we've got a fully transparent policy in place.

Are Virgin going to do pet-free flights? Avoid using the planes that have had pets onboard for pet-free flights? Because if they're going to risk everyone's health with this, Virgin better have damn good insurance.

Pets go in the hold for a reason, not in the main cabin. It's safer for those with allergies because Virgin can't guarantee an allergen free flight unless they segregate planes and staff. While people might be attached to their pets, isn't it safer to keep them apart? All it takes is one dog, one bite, one bad owner, to ruin this, so here's hoping Virgin is at least thinking ten steps ahead about people's safety and not just their profit margins.

Ellessri
  • 18th Mar 2025 01:02pm

My concern would be if it was shown on the booking screen, I am very allergic to cats and would not get on a flight with them, how are they going to address concersn like that?

wendel
  • 18th Mar 2025 12:17pm

People can be annoying enough without animals going off.

Ruskie30748487
  • 18th Mar 2025 12:12pm

What if the pets want to go to the toilet, get sick, make a noise, hastle people? How do you control them? There must be something that would need to be in place for these situations.

Crack
  • 18th Mar 2025 11:02am

No thanks! There are some people that drive you nuts on a long flight, I don't need those AND their pets at the same time. I think those people that want to bring their pets on board might just be the same people that think everything is about them and not give any consideration to those around them. Sure some pets may sleep through? But I'm sure there will be plenty that are not comfortable on a plane and wriggle, whine and generally make life for those around miserable. I'm not allergic to cats, but I just don't like them and don't want to be around them.. Imagine the discomfort and annoyance that would cause to anyone finding their seat and seeing they are to be seated next to an animal that they choose not to have for their own life, but now are stuck with it. Once again.. No thanks.

Ruskie30748487
  • 18th Mar 2025 12:13pm
No thanks! There are some people that drive you nuts on a long flight, I don't need those AND their pets at the same time. I think those people that want to bring their pets on board might just...

I agree, I can just imagine the pets going off and the owners going off too!!! Hell

Amensch
  • 18th Mar 2025 10:53am

I am not a fan of this. The pet should be put into the hold. Too many problems can arise. The cost to travel is so high that you just want your monies worth & not have a pet & or the owner going crazy or worse.

SLove
  • 18th Mar 2025 10:49am

I think it is inevitable, for the airline to remain competitive it needs to be offering the same as other airlines. Being a dog owner myself, I welcome the introduction of pet friendly flights, however I do think there needs to be considerations around seat allocation and transparency for those travelling without pets. Depending on the length of the flight, consideration may need to be given to toilet breaks for caged pets too.

hispania
  • 17th Mar 2025 10:12pm

I would wait and see on this one. I would like to see how a number of trial runs go. I wouldn't be at all happy if I found myself sitting next to a crying/barking pet or smelly one.

musicmum
  • 18th Mar 2025 03:20pm
I would wait and see on this one. I would like to see how a number of trial runs go. I wouldn't be at all happy if I found myself sitting next to a crying/barking pet or smelly one.

Yes a trial run for awhile would be best to see how it works out.

valume
  • 17th Mar 2025 09:17pm

If pets are well-behaved and controlled by owners. No problem. I do think there should be a dedicated section if pets are accompanying passengers.

musicmum
  • 18th Mar 2025 03:21pm
If pets are well-behaved and controlled by owners. No problem. I do think there should be a dedicated section if pets are accompanying passengers.

Also an option when you book whether you prefer to be away from pets or don't mind sitting next to them.

Moongold
  • 17th Mar 2025 07:35pm

I think this shouldn't be overly encouraged, but permitted when people must transport their animals. Having transported my own cats via plane I know the stress caused to them is not worth it. If they can be housed at home with a friend caring for them, this is best. It's a rare cat that will sit quietly on a plane seat beside their owner, although there is one man in Europe who has a wonderful relationship with his two cats, and they do just that. They trust him implicitly and one even enjoys the lights on the horizon at night from the plane windows!

Jodilee
  • 17th Mar 2025 05:39pm

I think airlines could offer dedicated pet-friendly flights, not all flights, but maybe one or two a week; any such flight should be promoted as 'pet-friendly' and you pay less if you're not bringing a pet (so... the sort of budget tickets already offered if you take the red-eye or only have carry-on) ... I'd be ok with travelling with other people's animals as I often travel on a budget and I like animals... and frankly I currently (we all do) put up with boisterous children, unhappy babies, snorers, people who take off their shoes, people who expand into your space... the odd support animal is hardly going to make that much of a difference. I would probably draw the line at a large or aggressive dog though - that can go in the luggage department thanks.

orient
  • 17th Mar 2025 03:05pm

There MUST be a difference between animals and human beings. We humans talk and work for a living so humans are masters over animals
I will hate to sit beside a smelly animal and have a dog watch me eating my food, sooo unhealthy dogs carry diseases
The answer to this question is a DEFINITE NO. PLEASE KEEP ANIMALS IN A SEPERATE COMPARTMENTS LIKE AIRLINES HAVE DONE. SEE HOW MUCH MONEY AIRLINES WOULD LOOSE BY NOT HAVING TO PAY FOR TRANSPORT, SHIT EVERYWHERE AND DOGS HAIR, WE WILL BREATH
AISLE FULL OF DOG SHIT AND PISS

Phlippa
  • 17th Mar 2025 03:21pm
There MUST be a difference between animals and human beings. We humans talk and work for a living so humans are masters over animals
I will hate to sit beside a smelly animal and have a dog...

I am also allergic to some animal hair and many other things. Ouchies with the language Orient. But I do understand totally your concerns.

Phlippa
  • 17th Mar 2025 03:20pm
There MUST be a difference between animals and human beings. We humans talk and work for a living so humans are masters over animals
I will hate to sit beside a smelly animal and have a dog...

I am also allergic to some animal hair and many other things. Ouchies with the language Orient. But I do understand totally your concerns.

Phlippa
  • 17th Mar 2025 02:54pm

Gosh it's a hard one. Some pets would be scared. Some people with allergies would be ill. I'd love to have my dog/s sitting up with me, but I understand totally it will not work for everybody.

orient
  • 17th Mar 2025 03:12pm
Gosh it's a hard one. Some pets would be scared. Some people with allergies would be ill. I'd love to have my dog/s sitting up with me, but I understand totally it will not work for everybody.

It is easy to this question No dogs in the cabin. My son is allergic to animal hair.

orient
  • 17th Mar 2025 03:12pm
Gosh it's a hard one. Some pets would be scared. Some people with allergies would be ill. I'd love to have my dog/s sitting up with me, but I understand totally it will not work for everybody.

It is easy to this question No dogs in the cabin. My son is allergic to animal hair.

funnysag
  • 17th Mar 2025 02:17pm

I think it’s a great idea, as I would love to take a pet on holidays. If someone doesn’t like it then the airline should provide either backup flights for such people or designated area on the plane away from the pet section.
I loved seeing people in Europe being able to take a pet on a flight so Australia needs to catch up.

ventnorgirl
  • 17th Mar 2025 02:16pm

I would not like to sit next to a dog in a cage.pay and put them in the hold unless guide dogs.

skits
  • 17th Mar 2025 02:14pm

Absolutely fantastic idea now you can go on holidays without having to leave your best friend

godsbaby
  • 17th Mar 2025 11:37am

I have algeres & would find it hard to be on a plane with animals. Are people going to be held responsible for their pets behaviour? Do you want to be on a flight with a howling dog or screaming cat? Mayb they could have some pet friendly & some pets not allowed

Andrew 31639627
  • 17th Mar 2025 10:26am

Having pets is a privilege not a right and those of us that don’t have pets shouldn’t be forced to suffer for those who do. Near is the park has been made dog friendly so off leash and many do not pick up after their pets! Until all pet owners are responsible owners we should not be forced to endure travelling with others smelly animals!

Magus
  • 15th Mar 2025 02:34pm

I think it's wonderful so long as they have nose/mouth guards. I would think that a well trained dog would add a soothing atmospheref. I think that pets should have a bath just like their hooman owners just before travel that should cover the Dander problem. If people are allergic to pets then they should find a set in the middle of the plane and those with pets take a seat at the rear. I love the comment from "Catfishhat".

lynndi
  • 14th Mar 2025 10:36pm

I would refuse to fly on a pet friendly flight. Pet dander every where, Pet dander comes from skin cells that are shed by animals with fur .Gets into airducts that have to specially cleaned , Why Pets That Shed Dander Should Not Be Allowed on Planes
Allergy and Asthma Risks:

Pet dander is a common allergen that can cause severe allergic reactions in passengers.
Even small amounts of dander in an enclosed space like an airplane cabin can trigger asthma attacks, respiratory distress, or skin reactions.
Airborne Contamination:

Dander is made up of tiny skin flakes that become airborne and circulate through the plane’s ventilation system.
This can lead to prolonged exposure for passengers, even if they are seated far from the pet.
Difficulty in Complete Removal:

Dander clings to upholstery, carpets, and air filters, making it hard to remove completely between flights.
Residual dander can affect multiple flights long after the pet has left the aircraft.
Potential for Medical Emergencies:

Severe allergic reactions on a flight can be dangerous, requiring emergency medical intervention or even an unscheduled landing.
Airlines may not always have the right medications on board to handle severe allergic reactions.
Hygiene Concerns:

Airplane cabins are already confined spaces where germs and contaminants spread easily.
Allowing dander-shedding pets increases the need for deep cleaning and can raise operational costs.
How to Clean Pet Dander from an Aircraft Interior
Vacuuming with HEPA Filters:

Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuums to remove dander from seats, carpets, and air vents.
HEPA vacuums trap tiny particles that regular vacuums might recirculate.
Wiping Surfaces with Microfiber Cloths:

Dampen microfiber cloths with a mild cleaning solution to wipe down armrests, tray tables, and seat backs.
Microfiber is effective at trapping fine particles like pet dander.
Deep Cleaning Upholstery and Carpets:

Use steam cleaning or specialized upholstery cleaners to break down dander trapped in fabric.
Enzyme-based cleaners can help neutralize allergens left behind by pets.
Replacing or Cleaning Air Filters:

Aircraft HVAC systems should be inspected and HEPA filters replaced or cleaned after flights with pets on board.
This prevents dander from recirculating into the cabin air.
Use of Allergen Neutralizing Sprays:

Special allergen-reducing sprays can help break down pet dander and reduce airborne allergens.
These sprays are often used in hotels and hospitals to manage allergens effectively.
Increased Ventilation Before Next Flight:

Allowing the aircraft to ventilate with fresh air between flights can help clear airborne dander.
Running the air circulation system with new filters before boarding passengers can also help reduce lingering allergens.

Bella4927
  • 14th Mar 2025 08:23pm

Yes it is inevitable and about time to be honest. I dont think it should be reconsidered. I think it should be pet exclusive flights; and people that must tick a box to say they are ok with it (or choose another flight) I think putting them in cargo is disgusting and unsafe and lots of pets have died of stress due to travelling that way. Not to mention the distress on their ears. If I move overseas I want to be able to take my pet to NZ with me on flight.

funnysag
  • 17th Mar 2025 02:22pm
Yes it is inevitable and about time to be honest. I dont think it should be reconsidered. I think it should be pet exclusive flights; and people that must tick a box to say they are ok with it (or...

I agree that it’s time to allow pets to travel with their owner. Pets are often like children to many people & I find Australia needs to be more liberated in regards to pet travel.

catfishhat
  • 14th Mar 2025 08:06pm

We already allow assistance dogs to travel with their owner and nobody raises an eyebrow because they are working. While I appreciate that anyone bringing any pet on board may seem like a fuss, as long as they are well trained and crated, or sedated if they are anxious flyers, I don't see the issue. Having completed my PhD in assistance animals for older adults, it needs to be understood that for many these pets are a part of their family. I've heard far more stories of animals dying in the cargo hold, in one case crushed by bags, so I can understand why owners would want their pet with them. For the pet's safety and their peace of mind. And if severe allergies were that much of an issue I would think more people would complain about assistance dogs (even if they are protected). I personally find babies more troublesome on flights and would love to see a gorgeous caged kitty (I'm both a mother and cat owner). But as a compromise, I don't see why some flights can't be marked "pet free" and others "pet friendly". If you're that bothered by animals then you have your choice, but it's unfair to take away someone elses choice on the balance.

Burnt Out Digger
  • 14th Mar 2025 02:06pm

I think it is a bad idea, how will they be kept under control?

Michelle32250126
  • 14th Mar 2025 11:54am

Finally an Australian airline has caught up with the rest of the world!
I agree to specify which flights will have pets is necessary for order travelers who may have allergies. Choice is key!

Mumsey
  • 14th Mar 2025 11:27am

About time that pets of a certain size are allowed to fly on the same plane as their owners!

Tim D
  • 14th Mar 2025 11:10am

Not too phased either way. Perhaps they could make some flights pet friendly and then people can have the choice if they go wit that flight or not. As a non pet owner I am happy not to have pets on planes but if I owned one it would be a good option. I have enough trouble affording a plane trip for myself and I cannot afford a pet so it is not terribly relevant to me.

johnp
  • 14th Mar 2025 11:09am

Yes, it will only make traveling more unpleasant for the majority.

baccus
  • 14th Mar 2025 10:01am

While the idea of pet-friendly flights might sound paws-itively adorable 🐶✈️, not everyone is thrilled about sharing their cabin space with furry (or feathered) passengers. For allergy sufferers, nervous flyers, or those who simply prefer their flights without unexpected meows and barks, this could make air travel less relaxing. Plus, let’s be honest—airports are already chaotic enough without the added challenge of keeping an excitable Labrador from greeting every passenger onboard! 🤯 While many airlines are embracing this trend, perhaps the real question is whether comfort and convenience should come before cuddles at 30,000 feet.

Jolep
  • 13th Mar 2025 09:47pm

I don’t agree with this move at all what happens if a dog gets upset by the noise/movement /people and becomes increasingly distressed? My dog hates storms and she spends the whole storm panting and drooling even though she is inside the house with me - she cannot be calmed. I would never take the chance of imposing her on other passengers but many pet owners don’t think of others. I am not against dogs in public places providing they are being controlled and monitored. In the enclosed confines of an aircraft this is just asking for trouble.

PammyD
  • 13th Mar 2025 09:30pm

I think it should be reconsidered. I have a pet and love her but there are too many selfish, irresponsible pet owners and this could be awful for other possengers.

PammyD
  • 13th Mar 2025 08:56pm

I think it should be reconsidered. I have a pet and love her but there are too many selfish, irresponsible pet owners and this could be awful for other possengers.

Angieg
  • 13th Mar 2025 08:52pm

I would love it for all airlines to allow pets onboard, provided the owner has full control and the pet is behaved.

pizzas57
  • 13th Mar 2025 08:40pm

For me if it's not a service or blind person type then why you need for it.

PGS
  • 13th Mar 2025 06:20pm

Sorry, we're overbooked - your seat was given to a dog.

Yes, I'd be totally thrilled.

I try to be early enough at check-in that I should not be affected - but no guarantee on that.

Flymow
  • 13th Mar 2025 06:03pm

I think it's a great idea. Provided the pets are secured and unable to bother anyone, it is great for people moving from one area to another as sometimes pets perish when travelling in the cargo hold.

dicky a
  • 13th Mar 2025 03:28pm

To quote John McEnroe .."you CANNOT be serious !".
Imagine walking on the airport tarmac, it's raining and the next door passenger comes aboard with his/her dog. It stops, shakes, spreading water droplets all over surrounding passengers. The dog settles, sopping wet and stinking. Nup. not for me !
Yes, I know this policy might occur in other countries , but if Virgin institute this policy, I will never again fly with them !

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