Every cat parent knows the heartbreak of travelling without our furry family member. The stress of finding a pet sitter and missing them so much it dampens an otherwise enjoyable trip, is now in the past because with these top European airlines, your small cat (typically up to 8kg) can accompany you in the cabin.
Top European Airlines That Allow Cats in the Cabin
Lufthansa
Lufthansa allows you to bring two cats in the cabin and business class that weigh up to 8kg, including the carrier. Your pet must be older than 12 weeks (or 15 weeks travelling to, from, or through Germany). The carrier must be soft-sided with dimensions of 118 centimetres (55cm x 40cm x 23cm) or 47 inches (22in x 16in x 9in). The price of bringing your cat in the cabin varies on the route but is roughly €50 each way.
Air France
Air France allows one cat in the cabin and business class (except long-haul flights) that weigh up to 8kg, including the carrier. Your pet must be older than 15 weeks (or 8 weeks if flying within Metropolitan France (including Corsica) and between Metropolitan France and Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Reunion Island. The carrier must be soft-sided with dimensions of 46cm x 28cm x24cm or 18in x 11in x 9in. The price of bringing your cat in the cabin varies on the route but is between €70 and €200 each way.
KLM
KLM allows one cat in the cabin and business class that weighs up to 8kg (including the carrier. Your pet must be older than 15 weeks and are not permitted on Premium Comfort Class and Business Class on intercontinental routes. The carrier must be 46cm x 28cm x 24cm in size. The price of bringing your cat in the cabin varies on the route but is between €75 and €400 each way.
Swiss Air
Swiss Air Lines allow one cat in the cabin that weighs up to 8kg, including the carrier. Your pet must be older than 12 weeks and 15 weeks if flying to and from Germany. The carrier must be soft-sided with dimensions of 118 centimetres (55cm x 40cm x 23cm) or 47 inches (22in x 16in x 9in). The price of bringing your cat in the cabin varies on the route but is between €80 and €380 each way.
Vueling
Vueling allows two cats in the cabin, or one bird or turtle. Flights operated by GetJet or AirHub only allow cats or dogs. Your pet must be older than 12 weeks and the carrier must be soft and weigh up to 8kg with dimensions of 45cm x 39cm x 21cm. The price of bringing your cat in the cabin varies on the route but is between €50 and €60 each way.
Aegean
Aegean Air allows one cat in the cabin up to 8kg, including the carrier. Your pet must be over 12 weeks old in a carrier not exceeding 55cm length x 40cm width x 23cm in height. For DH8-100 and STR aircraft carrier dimensions are 40cm length x 25cm width x25cm height. The price of bringing your cat in the cabin varies on the route but is between €35 and €65 each way.
Tap Air
Tap Air allows two cats in the cabin up to 8kg, including the carrier. Your pet must be over 10 weeks old and in a carrier with dimensions 45cm x 30cm x 23cm. The price of bringing your cat in the cabin varies on the route but is between €40 and €180 each way.
Tips for a Smooth Flight With Your Furry Family Member
Book Early: Airlines typically allow only a few pets on board, so book as early as possible. If you’re getting a last-minute flight, it’s best to call the airline’s customer care and book over the phone for immediate confirmation.
Airline Approved Carrier: The cat carrier dimensions can seem quite small and differ between airlines. You may have some leeway if using a soft sided carrier as it can be slightly bent on the corners to fit under the seat. Ensure your cat can stand up and turn around in the carrier as they spend long hours in there. Some airlines will measure your carrier while others are more interested in the weight. Therefore, stick as close to the individual airlines dimensions as possible.
Connecting Flights: If you’re getting a connecting flight with your cat, it’s advisable to have at least a 2 hour layover. As you may have to collect your luggage from the belt and go through security again before catching your connecting flight.
Prepare Your Cat: If you’ve never travelled with your cat before, it may be best not to feed them close to takeoff time. Airports are incredibly stressful for the best of us, but more so for our pets. You may not have a private room to put your furry friend’s carrier through the x-ray. For instance, in Athens Airport, you will use a belt at the end of the main security hall. Ensure your cat is on a harness and leash before removing them from their carrier at the airport. As you know, cats are especially prone to getting easily spooked, so hold tight to that leash.
Check Health Requirements: A pet passport can be obtained from your vet and includes all their vaccines and microchip information. Some countries may need to see evidence of deworming treatment, so check beforehand. Some countries may require a health declaration, which can be added to the back of the pet passport.
Book a Lounge: Check if you can bring your pet into the airport lounge as it’s a more calm environment away from the major crowds.
Why Should Dogs Have All the Fun?
Travelling with your beloved cat is one of the most enjoyable experiences. Once you get the right carrier and make it through the stressful gate experience, it’s happy holiday memories all the way. Now you just need to find cat friendly accommodation, which is a whole other kettle of fish!