For most owners, pets are part of the family. Traveling with pets on commercial airlines can be stressful for both owners and pets, so often the choice is made to leave them behind. A great solution to this problem is to book a pet-friendly charter flight or private jet!

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Travel Regulations for Pets

Pets can travel on private jet charter flights, and each country has its own rules and regulations regarding their transport.

Pet Travel in the United States

In the United States, the Department of Transportation and the Department of Agriculture set pet travel regulations. Dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old and no longer nursing. They must also be in good health, as airlines cannot transport an animal if they are in distress, violent, or ill.

Pets that are crossing state borders must have proof of rabies vaccinations and a valid health certificate issued by a vet within 30 days of flying. If the animal is traveling in the cargo hold, the health certificate cannot be issued more than 10 days before departure.

The Federal Aviation Administration also requires pets to be secured during takeoff and landing. If your pet weighs less than 150 pounds, they may use a passenger seat, but if they weigh more than that they must stay on the floor. They can be kept in a pet carrier or leashed while attached to a passenger’s seat belt.

Pet Travel in China.

Chinese regulations require pets to be chipped with a 15-digit microchip to fly. If the microchip is not compliant, you may bring a personal scanner that can read the chip your animal has. China does not require an import permit if pets are entering the country with their owners, but you must provide one if they are traveling alone as cargo.

China also requires a rabies certificate that is not more than a year old, as they do not recognize 2- or 3-year vaccines. You must also present a veterinary certificate that was completed within 14 days of entry, and it has to be endorsed by the government of the country that you are arriving from. If you are traveling from the US, this would be the State USDA’s office.

 

Traveling with Your Pets

There is no doubt that having your pet fly in the cargo hold of a commercial airline can be a stressful experience for both you and your pet. Pets are exposed to a wide range of temperatures and pressure changes while in the cargo hold, and this can be very detrimental to their health. As a result, many airlines do not allow pets to travel in the cargo hold during the colder or warmer months of the year as it poses a liability issue.

Actually, the Humane Society also advocates against this type of transport, as the temperature, oxygen, and pressure levels are not the same as they are in the cabin. In 2017, 24 pets died on commercial flights and there were at least 40 pet-related incidents. Opting to travel on a pet-friendly private jet allows you to have peace of mind that your pets are safe, as they are right by your side the entire time!

Photo: Mariah Tyler

Another benefit of traveling by private jet charter is the fact that you can skip the cumbersome process of having to drop off your pet at check-in, then rushing to pick them up once you arrive. You also do not have to worry about leaving them alone for an extended period, since they get to stay with you.

There are no size or breed restrictions when traveling by private jet charter, and you do not have to keep them in a small crate. This makes traveling with large animals or multiple pets much easier! Being able to roam freely allows them to feel comfortable while reducing the anxiety that can be brought on by traveling.

When you travel by private jet charter you want to be pampered, and so do your pets. Private jet charter gives your pets the freedom to have access to food, water, and treats along the way - so they are sure to enjoy the trip!

Photo: Courtesy

At Airacer, we provide unparalleled private jet charter solutions to suit you and your pets’ unique travel needs. Pets are part of the family and deserve the same first-class treatment that you do, so we are here to make sure you have the best travel experience possible! Contact us today to learn more or request a quote for your next flight.

Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime luxury getaway, organizing a corporate retreat, or treating yourself and your pets to the ultimate travel experience,  Airacer offers premium private jet charter rental, shared flights, and affordable empty leg flights to suit your needs. With our pet-friendly travel options, your furry friends will always fly by your side in the cabin—never in cargo—ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for all. Book your pet-friendly private jets today and discover the Airacer difference! Begin by requesting a quote, and we will happily help you plan your next adventure.

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