Pet-friendly flights
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?
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?
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Comments 33
valume
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.
Moongold
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
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
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
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
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
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
It is easy to this question No dogs in the cabin. My son is allergic to animal hair.
orient
It is easy to this question No dogs in the cabin. My son is allergic to animal hair.
funnysag
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
I would not like to sit next to a dog in a cage.pay and put them in the hold unless guide dogs.
skits
Absolutely fantastic idea now you can go on holidays without having to leave your best friend
godsbaby
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
I think it is a bad idea, how will they be kept under control?
Michelle32250126
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
About time that pets of a certain size are allowed to fly on the same plane as their owners!
Tim D
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
Yes, it will only make traveling more unpleasant for the majority.
baccus
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
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
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
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
I would love it for all airlines to allow pets onboard, provided the owner has full control and the pet is behaved.
pizzas57
For me if it's not a service or blind person type then why you need for it.
PGS
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
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
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 !