Do airlines flying to France allow pets in the cabin?

Reader Question: For my next holiday to France I want to bring my dog with me, but I am unsure if this is allowed on any airlines. My dog is small so I would like to bring her into the cabin with me to sit on my lap.

Several airlines that fly to and from France allow dogs on board. 

This includes Air France/KLM and its low-cost affiliate Transavia, Lufthansa, British Airways, Corsair, TAP Portugal, Turkish Airlines, and several others.

Most low-cost airlines such as easyJet and Ryanair do not allow pets on board, however Spanish operator Vueling does. 

In most circumstances, official guide dogs are allowed on the plane to assist passengers who need them.

However, flights to certain countries see all dogs, including guide dogs, prohibited. 

In the majority of cases, the option to add a pet to your ticket must be purchased, and this can be done in the ‘additional options’ section of the airline’s website or when at the checkout section for buying your seat.

France’s Civil Aviation Authority recommends that you remind the airline at least 72 hours before travelling that you are bringing your pet, even if you have bought an animal ticket.

Read more: Dog owners warned to look out for this plant in France to avoid pet injuries

Does my pet travel in the hold?

Whether the animal is allowed in the cabin or must be stored in the hold is dependent on the airline. 

For example, Vueling and Air France allow pets (dogs, cats, birds, and sometimes tortoises) in the cabin provided they weigh below a certain amount and are in ‘soft’ travel bags that fit specific dimensions (50cm x 40cm x 20cm with Vueling, for example). 

In all cases, consult the airline’s website before buying a ticket to ensure your pet can fly with them and what the rules are.

If it is not specifically stated that the animal can travel in the cabin, expect that it will be placed in the hold. 

You can help prepare your pet for the trip by taking small trips in the cage that will be used for the journey, and when getting ready to fly by putting its favourite blanket inside, potentially with a spray or scent that comforts the animal. 

Giving your pet sedatives is not recommended if they are flying in the hold. 

Finally, remember that pets are widely allowed on public transport in France, so it may be possible to fly with one pet-friendly airline and then get a train to your final destination, if no pet-friendly operators serve the nearest airport to where you are visiting.

Read more: When and where are dogs banned at beaches in France?

Pet health requirements 

If you are flying into France, you will also need to ensure your pet is up to date with vaccinations and other healthcare requirements. 

It will either need specific travel documentation or an EU Pet passport.