Air France welcomes pets on their flights, offering various options for flying with dogs or cats in the cabin and cargo hold[1]. The airline’s pet policy has specific requirements and restrictions, which we will discuss in detail below.
Pet Policy for Cats and Dogs
Air France allows dogs and cats in the cabin, provided that the combined weight of the pet and carrier does not exceed 17 lbs (8 kg) [2]. Each passenger may travel with one animal in the cabin[2]. Pets must be at least 15 weeks old to be accepted for travel by the airline[1].
Pet Reservation
To guarantee a place for your pet on board, contact Air France’s Telephone Sales Team at (800) 237-2747[2]. It is essential to confirm the availability of pet transport on your specific flight, as the capacity for pets may vary depending on the aircraft type and destination[3].
Emotional Support Animals
As of March 1, 2021, Air France no longer accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) but allows passengers to travel with a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) on flights to and from the USA[1]. The transport of an emotional support dog must be requested at least 48 hours before the flight[2].
Service Dogs
Air France allows passengers to bring their service dogs into the cabin for free, provided they comply with current international regulations[4]. The service dog must be trained by a recognized organization, and only one service dog is allowed per traveler[5].
Pet Policy in Business Class
Air France’s pet policy applies to all classes, including business class. However, the airline’s website does not provide specific information on any additional restrictions or allowances for pets in business class.
Fees and Restrictions
The fee for pets in the cabin varies depending on the destination[2]. For example:
- Flights to Metropolitan France: 40 EUR
- Within the Caribbean: 30 EUR
- In Europe or between Europe and North Africa or Israel: 55 EUR
- Between metropolitan France and Cayenne, Fort-de-France, Pointe-à-Pitre, and Saint-Denis de la Réunion: 55 EUR
Air France does not allow snub-nosed animals (such as pugs, boxers, bulldogs, Shih Tzu dogs, Persian, and Burmese cats) to travel in the hold for medical reasons[2]. The airline also bans Category 1 dogs (Staffordshire Terrier or American Staffordshire Terriers (pit bulls), Mastiffs, and Tosas) [6].
Category 2 dogs may only travel as freight (cargo) and include pedigree Staffordshire Terriers, pedigree American Staffordshire Terriers, pedigree Tosas, and dogs similar in morphology to the Rottweiler breed (with or without pedigree) [6].
In conclusion, Air France offers various options for pet travel, including in-cabin and cargo hold transport. It is crucial to understand the airline’s pet policy, make reservations in advance, and comply with all requirements and restrictions to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your pet.
Citations:
[1] https://www.theadventuresofdjangoandarya.com/airline-pet-policies/air-france/
[2] https://www.bringfido.co.uk/travel/airline_policies/air_france/
[3] https://www.seatmaestro.com/airlines-seating-maps/air-france/pets/
[4] https://wwws.airfrance.fr/en/information/passagers/acheter-billet-avion-pmr-autres-handicaps/svan
[5] https://airlinespet.com/air-france-service-dog/
[6] https://starwoodpet.com/blog/air-france-pet-policies
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