Private Flying with Pets: Everything You Need to Know About Taking a Pet on a Private Jet
There are many benefits to travelling by private jet, from the time saved to the luxury experienced onboard. Not all the perks are so readily apparent, but for many private jet hire is the best travel option as it gives you the freedom to bring pets onboard, rather than keeping them in the hold as you would be required on a commercial flight. We understand that in many cases your pets are a large part of your family, not cargo, and allowing them to spend the flight in the cabin with you not only helps to reduce their stress and anxiety but also helps to reduce your own. Private flying with pets can be simple and easy to accommodate as long as you have the correct documentation and your pet’s vaccines are up to date.
Here is everything you need to know about private flying with pets to ensure that you both have a smooth and relaxing flight.
Private Flying with Pets: General Guidance Before You Travel
Most clients who opt for private flying with pets tend to bring cats and dogs onboard, although some airports do allow private jet hire with other animals such as fish, reptiles, or ferrets. Regardless of the pet you wish to travel with, speak to our expert flight team who will be able to give you the most up-to-date and accurate advice on travelling with pets.
- Book a check-up with your vet: Your pet’s safety and comfort are of paramount importance so before you fly, always make sure your pet has been given authority to fly by your vet. Your vet will also be able to make sure your pet has received the correct vaccinations and treatments to be able to travel to the country of your choice.
- Ensure you have the correct documentation: This varies from country to country so our expert team will be able to advise on exactly what you need, depending on your trip. However, your pet will need a valid pet passport, documentation which shows details of their microchip and vaccination certificate to fly.
The UK
Most UK airports now allow for private flying with dogs, cats, and ferrets with thanks to the government’s Pet Travel Scheme which enables pets to take-off and land without the need for quarantine. London Gatwick, Biggin Hill, Stanstead and Manchester are amongst the airports where this is allowed, and you can travel with your pet to and from all areas of the EU alongside selected countries outside the EU. Pets must be at least three months old and have been vaccinated against rabies and tapeworm.
Europe
Private flying with pets is unrestricted between most airports in the EU. As well as valid documentation, your pet will need to have a rabies vaccination. Some countries, such as Cyprus and Greece also require pets to have been treated for ticks and tapeworm before travel.
USA
The requirements to travel to the USA with pets varies from state to state. As a general rule, your pet must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned. Depending on where you’re flying from a rabies vaccination may also be required. Speak to our expert team or your vet to find out more detail around what you need.
Private Flying with Pets: Whilst Onboard
Once you have ensured you have all the necessary documentation to allow your pet to travel between your chosen countries, the rest of the process is incredibly simple. Your pet’s passport will be scanned, just as yours would and your pet will be able to board your private jet by your side. The private jet terminal check-in and security process alleviates any waiting time and by keeping your pet with you as you fly, you have the added benefit of allowing them to get some fresh air or have a last-minute walk before settling into the cabin.
Once onboard, your pet will be treated as a VIP guest. As you let our team know that you are travelling with a pet we can arrange for any food or drinks as required, allowing your pet to have a routine which is as close to home as possible. You can enhance this experience further by bringing onboard any bedding, home comforts or toys to allow your pet to relax in familiar surroundings. Many private jets feature extensive internal storage, allowing you the freedom to have the cabin as you wish. With many modern private jets also offering a smooth and quiet journey your pet will be kept as relaxed as possible. Luxury furnishings and finishes including sumptuously soft carpet helps further by providing textures which your pet is accustomed to.
You will have full control over the temperature off your cabin, allowing you to make adjustments to suit you and your pet. Just as your flight crew will be on hand to make sure you are kept comfortable and happy during your journey, the same can be done for your pet. If there is anything they can do to help make your journey more relaxing, they will always accommodate.
Private flying with pets offers clients who are looking to relocate or travel for business or leisure a comfortable and relaxing experience which is completely stress free. There is no additional cost to bring a pet onboard and pets are welcome onboard most of our private jets. To charter a private jet for you and your pet, please use our online booking form, providing any details of when and where you’re travelling to and from as well as the species, breed and number of pets accompanying you. Our expert team will then utilise our global network of flight operators to find the perfect aircraft to accommodate your needs, creating a bespoke flight schedule and sending a full quote for your approval. We strive for excellence, should you have any query or request regarding your flight or your pet, get in touch with our expert team who will always aim to deliver.