Yes, you can bring a dog on a flight in India but whether your dog can travel in the cabin, cargo compartment, or not at all depends on the airline, route, aircraft, your dog’s size, and the required health documents.
For Indian pet parents, the rules can be surprisingly confusing. One airline may allow a small dog in the cabin, another may accept pets only in the cargo hold, while another may not accept ordinary pets at all.
As of 2026, airlines including Air India and Akasa Air offer pet-travel options, while policies at other carriers can be considerably more restrictive. Air India currently permits domesticated dogs and cats in the cabin and, subject to conditions, as checked baggage or cargo. Akasa Air’s “Pets on Akasa” programme allows eligible cats and dogs to travel in the cabin or cargo compartment. SpiceJet does not permit ordinary pets in the passenger cabin, although it has provisions for domestic pet carriage through its cargo operation. IndiGo states that ordinary pets are not permitted on its flights, with separate provisions for qualifying service animals.
This guide explains everything you need to know before booking a flight with your dog in India including airline rules, cabin requirements, documents, vaccination, carrier requirements, costs, airport procedures, international travel and tips for keeping your dog safe.
Important: Airline pet policies can change, and pet acceptance may depend on the particular aircraft and route. Always obtain confirmation from the airline before purchasing a non-refundable ticket.
Quick Answer: Can Dogs Travel on Flights in India?
Yes, dogs can travel by air in India, but not on every airline and not under the same conditions.
There are generally three ways a dog may travel:
- In the passenger cabin with the owner, usually inside an airline-approved carrier.
- In the aircraft hold as checked baggage, where the airline offers this facility.
- As air cargo, particularly for larger dogs or where the airline does not permit ordinary pets in the cabin.
The most important distinction is between an ordinary pet dog and a trained service or guide dog.
A service dog accompanying a passenger with a qualifying disability may have different rules from a family pet. DGCA accessibility guidance advises passengers travelling with trained service dogs to check the airline’s specific requirements before travelling.
Which Airlines Allow Dogs on Flights in India?
Airline policies are the first thing you should check before planning your journey.
Here is a practical overview of major Indian carriers.
| Airline | Ordinary pet dog in cabin | Pet in cargo/hold | Important point |
| Air India | Yes, subject to limits | Yes, subject to aircraft/route | One of the most comprehensive pet programmes |
| Akasa Air | Yes, subject to limits | Yes | “Pets on Akasa” |
| Alliance Air | Yes, subject to conditions | No | Domestic flights; cabin only |
| SpiceJet | No | Yes, on applicable domestic services | Cargo arrangements required |
| IndiGo | No for ordinary pets | No for ordinary pets | Service/guide dogs have separate rules |
| Air India Express | No standard pet-in-cabin service | Contact airline | Confirm before booking |
Policies are based on currently published airline information and should be reconfirmed for the exact flight before travel.
1. Air India Pet Policy
For many Indian pet parents, Air India is currently one of the most practical options for flying with a dog.
Air India allows domesticated dogs and cats to travel on eligible domestic and selected international flights, either in the passenger cabin or in the aircraft hold, subject to approval and route restrictions.
Can my dog travel in the Air India cabin?
Yes.
Air India’s current pet policy states that the combined weight of the dog and carrier must not exceed 10 kg for cabin travel.
The dog must remain inside its carrier and the carrier must be placed under the seat in front of you.
Air India currently permits pets in Economy Class, with pet passengers generally assigned aisle seats in the last rows. The pet cannot occupy a passenger seat, even if the adjoining seat is vacant.
Air India cabin carrier requirements
For cabin travel, Air India specifies a soft kennel measuring:
17 × 10 × 9 inches
The carrier must be:
- Soft-sided
- Leak-proof
- Secure
- Ventilated on three sides
- Without wheels
- Small enough to fit under the seat
Only one pet is permitted inside each container.
What if my dog weighs more than 10 kg?
Air India’s published policy places pets weighing more than 10 kg into the checked-baggage/cargo category, subject to the applicable conditions.
Pets between 10 kg and 32 kg may be transported as checked baggage where the service is available.
Dogs weighing more than 32 kg, including the applicable container considerations, must be transported as cargo. Availability can depend on the aircraft and route.
Air India pet charges
Air India’s current published domestic charges are:
- Cabin pet up to 10 kg: ₹7,500 per sector
- Checked pet above 10 kg and below 32 kg: ₹16,000 per sector
- Above 32 kg: Cargo charges apply separately
These are published standard charges and taxes or additional charges may apply. A connecting itinerary can result in charges applying to each sector.
How early should I book an Air India pet?
Air India currently advises passengers to arrange pet travel at least 48 hours before departure for cabin pets.
Because the number of pets accepted on each flight is limited, waiting until the last minute is risky.
Air India currently allows two pets in the passenger cabin per flight, with each pet accompanied by a passenger.
2. Akasa Air Pet Policy
Akasa Air is another important option for Indian pet parents.
Its Pets on Akasa programme allows cats and dogs aged three months or older to travel either in the cabin or in the cargo compartment, subject to the airline’s conditions.
Akasa states that a maximum of three pets can travel on a flight, with up to two pets in the cabin and one in the cargo compartment, subject to the applicable weight and operational restrictions.
That makes Akasa particularly useful for owners who do not want to use an airline that completely prohibits ordinary pet travel.
Important Akasa advice
Do not assume that every Akasa flight automatically accepts pets.
Pet carriage depends on the applicable flight and operational conditions. Confirm pet availability before finalising your travel plans.
For a small dog, ask specifically about:
- Cabin eligibility
- Combined pet/carrier weight
- Approved carrier dimensions
- Pet booking procedure
- Applicable fee
- Required vaccination and health documents
3. Alliance Air Pet Policy
Alliance Air also permits certain domestic pets to travel in the passenger cabin.
Its published FAQ says small, inoffensive domestic pets such as dogs, cats and birds may be accepted on domestic flights in the cabin, subject to the airline’s requirements.
The published limit is:
- Pet weight: up to 5 kg
- Pet + container: up to 8 kg
- Maximum kennel size: 18 × 18 × 12 inches
- Maximum two pets per flight
Pets are not permitted in the cargo hold under this policy.
The pet must be carried in an appropriate soft, ventilated bag or kennel and accompanied by valid health and rabies vaccination certificates.
Alliance Air also states that trained guide dogs meeting its conditions may be carried free of charge for passengers who depend on them.
4. SpiceJet Pet Policy
SpiceJet is different from Air India and Akasa.
Its current FAQ states that ordinary pets are not permitted to be carried onboard in the passenger cabin, but pets may be carried in the cargo hold on applicable domestic flights.
SpiceJet’s cargo terms provide additional requirements for animal transportation.
Among its published conditions are:
- Dogs must be properly muzzled and leashed.
- A fit-to-fly/health document is required.
- Vaccination/immunisation records are required.
- Domestic pets must generally be at least 3 months old.
- Advanced pregnancy is not accepted.
- Certain brachycephalic or short-muzzled breeds may be restricted.
- Cargo acceptance depends on applicable aircraft and operational conditions.
If your dog is large and you are considering SpiceJet, contact the cargo team before booking your passenger ticket.
5. IndiGo Pet Policy
This is one of the most important points for Indian dog owners:
Do not assume that IndiGo allows ordinary pet dogs simply because another Indian airline does.
IndiGo’s published information states that ordinary pets are not permitted on its flights.
However, IndiGo has separate arrangements for qualifying service animals and guide dogs.
For example, its published service-animal rules require documentation showing that a guide dog has been appropriately trained, vaccinated and medicated. Service animals are also subject to seating and restraint requirements.
Therefore:
Family pet = not the same as service dog.
If you are travelling with an ordinary pet dog, choose an airline that explicitly accepts pets rather than assuming an exception will be made at the airport.
6. Air India Express Pet Policy
Air India Express currently states that it does not offer a standard pet-in-cabin travel service.
For specific pet-travel questions, the airline advises passengers to contact customer support directly.
Because airline policies can change during fleet and operational transitions, check the current policy for your exact flight before making arrangements.
Can a Puppy Travel on a Flight in India?
Age restrictions depend on the airline.
For example, Air India currently states:
- Cabin: minimum 8 weeks old
- Cargo/hold: minimum 3 months old
Akasa Air’s published pet information specifies that dogs and cats must be at least 3 months old for its pet programme.
However, age eligibility is not the same thing as veterinary fitness.
A puppy that technically meets an airline’s minimum age may still not be fit for air travel.
Before flying with a puppy, speak with your veterinarian about:
- Vaccination status
- Rabies vaccination
- Infectious disease risk
- Stress tolerance
- Hydration
- Travel crate training
- Breed-specific respiratory risks
Never put an unwell puppy on a flight simply because it meets the airline’s minimum age requirement.
What Documents Are Required to Fly With a Dog in India?
For domestic travel, documentation requirements vary by airline.
A sensible basic document folder should contain:
1. Vaccination certificate
Carry your dog’s current vaccination record.
2. Rabies vaccination certificate
Rabies documentation is particularly important for pet travel.
3. Veterinary health/fit-to-fly certificate
Some airlines require a recent veterinary certificate confirming that the dog is fit for travel.
4. Pet identification details
Keep your dog’s name and your contact details with the carrier.
5. Airline pet forms
Some airlines require an indemnity or declaration form.
6. Original documents
Do not rely exclusively on photographs stored on your phone.
Carry the originals and photocopies where the airline requires them.
Air India’s current requirements, for example, include valid health and rabies vaccination certificates, with specific validity requirements, and original documents plus photocopies at check-in.
Do You Need a Health Certificate to Fly With a Dog?
In many cases, yes.
The exact timing depends on the airline and route.
Air India currently requires a valid health and rabies vaccination certificate and states that the health certificate should be recent and duly signed and stamped by a registered veterinarian.
For international travel, requirements can become much more complicated.
You may need:
- Microchip
- Rabies vaccination
- Additional vaccinations
- Blood tests
- Import permit
- Veterinary health certificate
- AQCS documentation
- Airline paperwork
- Destination-country paperwork
- Quarantine arrangements
Never treat international pet travel as simply “booking a ticket for your dog.”
Do You Need an AQCS NOC for Domestic Flights?
For a normal domestic trip within India, you should first follow the airline’s domestic pet requirements.
AQCS becomes particularly important for international import/export of pets.
The Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS), Government of India, publishes specific requirements for exporting dogs and cats from India.
Its current export checklist includes items such as:
- Veterinary health certificate
- Microchip certificate
- Vaccination details
- Owner’s passport copy
- Owner’s air ticket
- Airway bill if the pet travels as cargo
- Destination-country requirements
- Pet photographs
AQCS also advises applicants to submit the required documents in advance for the NOC process.
AQCS currently operates pet-related quarantine/certification services through six stations: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
How to Take Your Dog on a Flight: Step-by-Step
If this is your first time flying with a dog, use this checklist.
Step 1: Choose the airline first
Do not buy the cheapest ticket and then ask about your dog.
Start with airlines that explicitly accept pets.
For cabin travel, Air India, Akasa Air and eligible Alliance Air services are among the options currently documented in airline policies.
Step 2: Check your dog’s weight
Weigh your dog with the carrier, not just the dog.
This is important because airlines generally calculate cabin eligibility using the combined weight.
For example, Air India’s current cabin limit is 10 kg including the carrier.
Step 3: Call the airline before paying
Ask:
“Can you confirm pet acceptance for my exact flight number and date?”
Get confirmation before making non-refundable arrangements.
Step 4: Visit your veterinarian
Ask the vet to review:
- Vaccinations
- Rabies status
- General health
- Respiratory health
- Fitness for air travel
- Breed-specific risks
Step 5: Buy the correct carrier
Do not wait until the day before travel.
Let your dog become comfortable with the carrier weeks before the journey.
Step 6: Complete the pet booking
A normal passenger ticket does not automatically reserve a pet space.
Pet capacity is limited on many flights.
Step 7: Prepare your documents
Keep originals and copies where required.
Step 8: Arrive early
Air India currently recommends passengers travelling with pets report at least three hours before departure.
Give yourself additional time for document checks and pet handling.
What Should I Put Inside My Dog’s Travel Carrier?
For cabin travel, follow the airline’s exact carrier requirements.
A useful setup normally includes:
- Absorbent mat
- Familiar but safe bedding if permitted
- Identification label
- Contact details
- Harness and leash available separately
- Spare absorbent mats
- Basic cleaning supplies
Avoid putting unnecessary objects inside the carrier.
Air India’s current rules specifically require an absorbent mat and prohibit food inside the cabin pet container.
Should I Feed My Dog Before a Flight?
Do not give your dog a huge meal immediately before departure.
A heavy meal combined with anxiety and movement can increase the chance of vomiting or stomach discomfort.
Instead, ask your veterinarian for feeding and hydration advice appropriate for your individual dog.
Bring normal food with you for the journey where permitted, but follow airline security and baggage rules.
Air India’s pet guidance says food is not permitted inside the pet container, while its travel guidance recommends carrying dry pet food separately in cabin baggage.
Should I Sedate My Dog Before Flying?
Do not sedate your dog simply because you are worried it will be nervous.
Talk to your veterinarian first.
Air India specifically advises against sedating or tranquillising pets for air travel and notes the potential risks associated with sedation and pressure changes.
A better approach is usually:
- Carrier training
- Familiar smells
- Calm handling
- Exercise before leaving home
- Appropriate feeding
- Veterinary advice
If your dog has severe anxiety, discuss the problem with your veterinarian well before the travel date.
Which Dog Breeds Should Not Fly?
There is no single India-wide list covering every airline.
However, brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs deserve particular attention.
Examples include:
- Pug
- French Bulldog
- English Bulldog
- Boston Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Boxer
- Some mastiff-type breeds
These dogs can be more vulnerable to breathing difficulties and heat stress.
Air India’s current policy allows domesticated breeds in the cabin but restricts certain snub-nosed breeds from its cargo compartment because of respiratory and temperature-related risks.
SpiceJet also publishes restrictions involving snub-nosed and short-muzzled breeds in its animal cargo conditions.
For a flat-faced dog, cabin travel may be preferable to hold/cargo travel where the airline permits it, but the safest decision should be made with your veterinarian and the airline.
Can a Large Dog Travel in the Cabin?
Usually, no.
Cabin travel is primarily designed for smaller pets that can remain inside an approved carrier under the seat.
For example, Air India’s current cabin limit is 10 kg including the carrier.
A 25 kg Labrador, German Shepherd or Rottweiler therefore cannot simply sit beside you in an ordinary passenger seat.
Depending on the airline, larger dogs may need to travel as checked baggage or cargo.
This is one reason choosing the airline before booking your flight is so important.
Can My Dog Sit on the Passenger Seat?
For ordinary pet travel, no.
Your dog generally has to remain inside the approved carrier and follow the airline’s placement rules.
Air India’s current policy explicitly says a pet cannot occupy a passenger seat, even when an adjoining seat is empty.
Do not purchase an extra seat assuming this will automatically allow your dog to sit on it.
Ask the airline about its specific rules.
What Happens at the Airport?
The airport process can be more involved than a normal check-in.
Expect to:
- Report to the designated check-in counter.
- Present your ticket.
- Present your dog’s documents.
- Present the pet carrier.
- Allow staff to inspect the carrier and paperwork.
- Pay applicable pet charges.
- Complete required declarations/forms.
- Follow instructions for security and boarding.
For cabin pets, your dog generally remains in its carrier during the airport and flight process according to the airline’s instructions.
Do not take your dog out of the carrier simply because you have reached the gate.
Follow the airline staff’s directions.
Domestic vs International Dog Travel From India
Domestic travel is usually much simpler.
International travel is a completely different process.
When travelling internationally, you have to satisfy three separate sets of rules:
1. Indian export requirements
This can involve AQCS documentation and examination.
2. Airline requirements
The airline may have its own:
- Weight limits
- Carrier requirements
- Breed restrictions
- Route restrictions
- Cargo rules
- Health certificate requirements
3. Destination-country requirements
The destination country may require:
- Microchip
- Rabies vaccination
- Rabies antibody titre test
- Import permit
- Veterinary certificate
- Quarantine
- Specific parasite treatments
- Advance notification
AQCS specifically advises pet exporters to check the requirements of the importing country, including possible import permits and blood titre testing.
Important: International Routes Can Have Special Restrictions
Even when an airline generally allows pets, it may prohibit pet travel on specific international routes.
For example, Air India’s current policy has restrictions involving destinations including the USA, Canada, Australia, UK and UAE, with the precise restriction depending on direction and method of transport. UK pet transportation is restricted to cargo on specified routes, while pets are not accepted in the cabin on flights from India to the UAE under the current published policy.
This is why an international pet journey should be planned several weeks or months in advance rather than treated like an ordinary flight booking.
How Much Does It Cost to Fly With a Dog in India?
There is no single nationwide price.
The cost depends on:
- Airline
- Route
- Cabin vs cargo
- Dog’s weight
- Carrier weight
- Number of flight sectors
- Veterinary charges
- Vaccination
- Microchip
- AQCS fees or related services where applicable
- Destination-country requirements
For example, Air India’s currently published domestic pet charges are ₹7,500 for cabin pets up to 10 kg and ₹16,000 for pets above 10 kg and below 32 kg, with cargo charges applying above the stated threshold.
Do not compare airlines using the pet fee alone.
A cheaper pet fee may not be cheaper overall if you need a larger carrier, additional veterinary documentation, cargo handling or a different route.
Is Flying Safe for Dogs?
For a healthy adult dog that is properly prepared and accepted under the airline’s rules, air travel can be managed safely.
However, flying is not risk-free.
Potential concerns include:
- Anxiety
- Dehydration
- Motion sickness
- Temperature exposure
- Respiratory problems
- Stress
- Handling-related injuries
- Increased risk for brachycephalic dogs
Older dogs, very young puppies, dogs with heart or respiratory problems and dogs with severe anxiety deserve additional veterinary consideration.
If you have any doubt, ask your veterinarian:
“Is my dog medically fit to fly, and is cabin or hold travel more appropriate?”
That answer should come before the airline booking.
12 Tips for Flying With Your Dog in India
1. Choose the airline around your dog, not the other way around
The cheapest ticket is irrelevant if the airline will not accept your pet.
2. Prefer direct flights
Fewer transfers generally mean fewer handling events and less travel stress.
3. Book early
Pet capacity can be limited.
4. Weigh the dog and carrier together
This prevents unpleasant surprises at check-in.
5. Get the carrier early
Your dog should become comfortable inside it before travel day.
6. Keep documents organised
Use a dedicated folder.
7. Carry photocopies
Do not depend on your phone alone.
8. Never hide your dog
Do not attempt to board a flight by treating your pet as ordinary baggage.
9. Don’t sedate without veterinary guidance
Air India specifically warns against sedating pets for air travel.
10. Exercise your dog before leaving
A calm, appropriately exercised dog may cope better with the journey.
11. Consider the weather
Heat can be particularly important for flat-faced and thick-coated dogs.
12. Reconfirm the policy before departure
Airline pet rules can change because of aircraft type, route, operational limitations or regulatory requirements.
Best Airlines for Flying With a Dog in India
If your priority is travelling with your dog, there is no single airline that is best for every owner.
Best overall for a small dog: Air India
Air India has a relatively comprehensive pet programme, including cabin travel up to its published 10 kg combined pet-and-carrier limit, plus options for larger pets subject to conditions.
Another strong option: Akasa Air
Akasa’s Pets on Akasa programme offers both cabin and cargo options for eligible cats and dogs aged three months or older.
Best for very small pets on eligible regional routes: Alliance Air
Alliance Air’s published policy allows small domestic pets in the cabin, subject to its 5 kg pet/8 kg combined limit.
For large dogs: check cargo options carefully
If your dog cannot meet cabin limits, compare airlines that offer pet cargo/hold services and confirm the exact aircraft and route before booking.
Final Checklist: Flying With a Dog in India
Before leaving home, make sure you can tick every box:
- Airline confirmed pet acceptance
- Exact flight confirmed for pet travel
- Dog meets minimum age
- Dog meets weight restrictions
- Carrier meets airline dimensions
- Vaccination records ready
- Rabies certificate ready
- Veterinary health certificate ready
- Required airline forms completed
- Leash/harness packed
- Absorbent mats packed
- Food packed separately where permitted
- Original documents packed
- Copies of documents packed
- Pet fee confirmed
- Airport reporting time confirmed
- Destination rules checked if travelling internationally
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my dog on a domestic flight in India?
Yes, but airline policies differ. Air India, Akasa Air and Alliance Air currently publish pet-travel options for eligible dogs, while other airlines may prohibit ordinary pets or restrict them to cargo.
Can I take my dog in the cabin?
Yes, on airlines that offer cabin pet travel and if your dog meets their weight, carrier, documentation and route requirements.
Air India’s current cabin limit is 10 kg including the carrier.
Can a Labrador travel in the cabin?
Only if the Labrador and approved carrier fall within the airline’s combined cabin weight and size limits. Most adult Labradors will be too large for ordinary cabin pet travel.
Can I take a Pomeranian on a flight?
A small Pomeranian may qualify for cabin travel with airlines that permit pets, provided the dog and carrier meet the airline’s combined weight and carrier requirements.
Can I take a German Shepherd on a flight?
An adult German Shepherd will normally exceed cabin pet limits. Depending on the airline and route, larger dogs may need to travel as checked baggage or cargo.
Can I take a Pug on a flight?
Possibly, but extra caution is required. Pugs are brachycephalic and can be vulnerable to breathing and heat-related problems. Airline cargo restrictions may apply, and veterinary assessment is strongly recommended.
Can I take a dog without a vaccination certificate?
Do not assume you can. Airlines can refuse pets when required vaccination or health documents are missing. Air India explicitly lists incomplete vaccination and health documentation as grounds for refusal.
Can my dog sit beside me on the flight?
Generally no for ordinary pet travel. The dog must remain in the approved carrier according to the airline’s rules. Air India specifically prohibits pets from occupying passenger seats.
Can I buy an extra seat for my dog?
Buying an additional seat does not automatically make an ordinary pet eligible to sit there. Ask the airline before travelling.
Can I fly with a puppy?
Yes, if the puppy meets the airline’s minimum age and health requirements. Minimum ages vary by carrier. Air India currently specifies 8 weeks for cabin travel and 3 months for cargo, while Akasa specifies 3 months for its pet programme.
Should I sedate my dog before flying?
Not without veterinary advice. Air India specifically advises against sedation or tranquillisation for pet air travel.
Which Indian airline is most pet-friendly?
For ordinary pet dogs, Air India and Akasa Air currently provide some of the clearest cabin-and-cargo pet options. Alliance Air also permits small pets in the cabin on eligible domestic flights. Always check the exact flight before booking.
The Bottom Line
Yes, you can bring a dog on a flight in India — but you cannot simply arrive at the airport with your dog and expect to board.
The airline, route, aircraft, dog’s size, carrier, health status and documentation all matter.
For a small dog, airlines such as Air India and Akasa Air currently offer cabin-travel options subject to their respective rules. Alliance Air also publishes a cabin pet service for small domestic pets. For larger dogs, you may need an airline that offers checked-baggage or cargo transportation. Airlines such as IndiGo do not accept ordinary pet dogs, while SpiceJet’s current policy places ordinary pet transportation outside the passenger cabin.
The safest strategy is simple:
Choose the airline first → confirm pet availability → check your dog’s weight → visit your veterinarian → prepare the documents → use an approved carrier → arrive early.
And if you are travelling internationally, start planning much earlier because AQCS and destination-country requirements can add substantial paperwork and lead time.
Editorial note: Airline pet policies, fees, aircraft restrictions and international entry requirements can change. This guide is intended as a practical 2026 reference, but pet owners should always verify the current rules with the airline and relevant government authorities before travelling. Don’t miss our upcoming articles—visit our Indian dog breeders regularly for more trusted information and practical pet care advice.