Pets in the cabin: what to check before booking

Limited quotas and booking times

The number of animals allowed in the cabin on each flight is almost always limited, and available spots are quickly exhausted during peak seasons. ITA Airways, for its dedicated service for large dogs up to 30 kg, requires booking at least four days in advance by contacting the Customer Information Assistance Office directly: simply mentioning the animal when purchasing your ticket online is not enough.

For standard carriers under the seat, many other airlines apply similar rules but with different terms: it is always worth verifying the notice required in the specific case, as it can vary from a simple communication during booking to a fixed number of days before departure.

Costs that do not follow ticket price

ITA Airways applies fares starting from around 73 euros on domestic flights and exceeding 100 euros on many international routes, regardless of the class or price paid by the passenger. Other airlines calculate the cost differently, so it is useful to ask for the exact amount before confirming the purchase, rather than relying on indicative fares found online.

Prohibited seats on board and specific documents for the cabin

For reasons related to evacuation procedures, most airlines do not allow seats near emergency exits when traveling with a pet in the cabin. It is also worth asking whether specific health documents are required for cabin transport, distinct from those required for entry into the destination country, discussed in detail in the guide to health documents for animals.

Before paying for the ticket, ask the airline for written confirmation, even just an email, of the reserved spot for the animal: in case of pet quota overbooking, it is the only proof you can rely on.