Where will my pet be on the aircraft during the flight?
Your pet will travel in the animal hold below the passenger deck. The hold is pressurised and heated throughout and remains unlit throughout the flight. This generally encourages the animals to sleep, meaning a relaxing journey.
When will my pet be fed and watered?
Al the carriers are fitted with water containers. These will be refilled during any transit stops. Animals are not fed immediately prior to travel, in order to avoid them soiling the carrier, as this would obviously cause discomfort to your pet.
Will my pet have enough space in the carrier?
Yes. We will supply a carrier that is suitable for your pet, made to measure to ensure that it will be big enough for your pet to stand, lie, and turn around in comfort. If the travel container is not of a suitable size the airlines reserve the right to refuse your pet travel.
Will my pet be stressed from the flight?
Your pet will be pleased to see you and will probably enjoy a good meal at the end of their flight, but most animals travel very well and relax throughout the flight. More than a million pets fly safely world-wide every year. The captain will know animals are on board and will act accordingly in line with recommended procedures.
Will my pet be tranquillised before it travels?
Inline with Defra and advice from vets, we strongly discourage tranquillising your animal before the flight. Due to the change of air pressure in the pressurised hold there is a risk of adverse drug reactions and breathing difficulties. Airlines may refuse to transport sedated animals as they cannot judge their state of health. For a healthy flight we recommend you DO NOT sedate your pets.
Are there any circumstances when animals cannot fly?
Yes. If a vet or duty manager at a handling centre is concerned about your pet it will be checked and may be held back from travel. This is for the welfare of your pet. Restrictions can also be imposed due to seasonal temperatures in certain countries, again this is for the welfare of the animal, as extremes of heat or cold are not good for your pet.
How soon will my pet be allowed off the aircraft?
While you fight with the hoards of passengers to find your bags and duty free from the overhead lockers, your pet will already be off the flight. The ground teams at the arrival airport know that animals are on the flight and they will prioritise their removal from the aircraft.