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Airline pet policies / British Airways

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British Airways pet policy: cabin, hold and fees

British Airways carries pets only as cargo, not in the cabin. Fees, carrier sizes, breed rules and how to book, checked against the official policy.

Checked against the official page ยท 15 Oct 2026
Pets in the cabinNo
Pets in the holdAs cargo only
FeesDepends on crate size, weight and distance
How to bookBook as cargo (BA works with PetAir UK)
Cargo and other animalsPets travel in the hold as cargo.
Watch out for
  • No pets in the cabin on any route; only recognised assistance dogs.
  • Emotional support dogs travel as pets.

Here is the British Airways pet policy in plain English, checked against the official British Airways page on 15 Oct 2026. British Airways carries pets only as cargo, not in the cabin. Below, you’ll find what it means for your trip, plus a short checklist before you book.

British Airways pet policy: planes at an airport gate
Photo: Skyler Smith / Unsplash

British Airways pet policy for the cabin

The British Airways pet policy does not allow pets in the passenger cabin. However, your pet can still travel as air cargo through a pet shipping company.

If you want your dog or cat next to you, you’ll need a different airline on the same route. For example, Lufthansa, KLM and Air France accept small pets in the cabin up to 8 kg with the carrier. Use our pet flight search to compare the options for your pet.

Pets in the hold and as cargo on British Airways

British Airways does not carry pets in the hold as checked baggage. Pets travel in the hold as cargo.

Fees and how to book a pet on British Airways

Fee: Depends on crate size, weight and distance. How to book: Book as cargo (BA works with PetAir UK). Fees can change, so check the final amount when you book.

Before you book: British Airways pet policy checklist

  1. First, weigh your pet together with its carrier or kennel, because airlines check the total weight at the airport.
  2. Next, check the entry rules of your destination, such as microchip, rabies vaccine and health papers. Our pet travel requirements page links to the official sources.
  3. Then, book your pet at the same time as your own seat, since pet places on each flight are limited.
  4. Finally, confirm the details on the official British Airways pet policy page, because rules and fees can change.

Comparing airlines? See all 62 airline pet policies on one page.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring my pet in the cabin on British Airways?

No. British Airways does not accept pets in the passenger cabin, except recognised assistance dogs where its rules allow.

How much does it cost to fly with a pet on British Airways?

Depends on crate size, weight and distance. Fees change often, so confirm the exact amount when you book.

This summary is a guide, not legal or veterinary advice. Airlines change their rules often: always confirm with British Airways before you book. Your destination country may have extra entry rules.