Flying With Large Dogs In Cabin

If you’re thinking about taking your big dog on a flight and don’t want to put your dog in cargo, you need to know that the whole in-cabin deal changes depending on how much your dog weighs and how big they are. Unfortunately, most commercial airlines only allow flying with small dogs under 20 pounds in the cabin, leaving out the medium and large pups. Only service dogs are allowed to fly in cabin. But don’t lose hope just yet. Flying with large dogs in cabin is still possible!

Book a semi-private or private charter flight so you and your big dog can fly in cabin together! This will hit your wallet a bit harder than commercial airlines, but seriously, spending a little extra is worth the peace of mind knowing your pup’s right there with you in the cabin.

Semi-Private VS Private Charter Flights: What’s The Difference? 

Semi-private and private charter flights offer different levels of privacy and exclusivity when flying. Here’s how they’re not the same:

Private Charter Flights

Private charter flights mean booking the whole plane for you or your group. That means you’re in charge of when you fly, where you go, and who’s with you. The good things about private charters are:

Just You: You have the whole plane to yourself, so no sharing with strangers.

Your Way: You get to pick when you leave, where you land, and what’s on the plane.

Quick and Easy: Private charters often mean less time in airports, and can use smaller airports closer to where you want to be.

Semi-Private Flights

Semi-private flights are like sharing a ride with others but with much fever people. Here’s what to know:

Sharing Costs: Because you’re flying with others, the price can be lower than a full private charter.

Some Privacy: It’s better than regular commercial flights, but you won’t have as much privacy as in a full private charter.

Set Times: These flights have set schedules, and you might not have as much say in where you’re going.

Less Personalization: You’ll get some perks but fewer choices than private charters.

In short, private charter flights are all about total control, privacy, and making it your own. Semi-private flights are in the middle, giving you a more memorable experience than regular commercial flights and saving you some cash by flying with others. Your pick depends on what you want, how much you’re ready to spend, and how you like to travel.

Charter Flights VS Commercial Airline Flights: What’s The Difference?

As per the U.S. Department of Transportation, a charter flight stands apart from the typical scheduled and published flights offered by airlines. Charter companies frequently arrange these flights. On the other hand, an airline flight follows predetermined schedules that are published in advance. 

So, what exactly distinguishes a charter flight from an airline flight? Take a look at their primary differences below:

Flexibility

Airline flights adhere to set schedules that are typically announced in advance. These flights are accessible at commercial airports, but their destinations are often confined to popular ones.

Conversely, charter flights can depart and arrive at a broader range of locations. They aren’t bound by the same stringent regulations that usually apply to airline flights. Additionally, you have the freedom to customize your own schedule!

Tailored In-Flight Services

Here’s another biggie that sets these two apart: the in-flight vibe. On a charter flight, it’s all about tailoring the service to fit your needs.

Charter planes are smaller and have fewer seats, providing a roomier setting. This luxury is not easily attainable on an airline flight unless you fly first class.

The Price Difference

The major difference between a charter and an airline flight is probably the cash you’ll have to shell out. An airline seat can run you from $200 to $600. On the flip side, chartering a flight can set you back anywhere between $1,200 to a substantial $20,000.

No doubt about it, dog-friendly charter flights come with a hefty price tag. But wait, there’s a silver lining packed in there. You’re getting a ton of perks! Picture this: more wiggle room, seclusion, your pup is right by your side and all-around cozy vibes. And don’t forget to factor in the plane size and the goodies they’ve got on board.

4 Reasons To Book A Dog-Friendly Charter Flight

There are a lot of ways to travel with your pets. But here are four reasons why you should consider a dog-friendly charter flight instead:

Comfort

Traveling with pets can be stressful. However, with a charter flight, pets can travel in the cabin instead of being confined to the cargo area. Plus, having their humans right there can make the whole flying experience way less stressful for them.

What’s more, you can enjoy some in-flight catering and personalized services like pet-friendly amenities like comfortable bedding, toys, and even specially prepared pet meals, ensuring your dog’s comfort and well-being during the flight.

No Seasonal Restrictions

You have the freedom to fly on your own timeline, no matter the season. Unlike commercial airline flights, charter flights don’t come with seasonal restrictions.

Peace Of Mind

Whether embarking on an international journey with your dog or taking a vacation with your cat, there’s no need to fret about leaving them behind at home or stuck in a cargo hold.

Moreover, you’ll be able to rest easy, knowing that they’re cruising comfortably during the flight right with you.

No Limits To The Size, Type, Breed and Number Of Pets

Whether your companion is covered in fur, feathers, or scales, the vast majority of pets are welcome aboard a charter flight. And guess what? You can even bring more than one along for the ride!

Just remember, the kind of aircraft you’ll be on will vary depending on the size or type of pet you’re bringing. This is because larger pets need a roomier aircraft to kick back comfortably.

Where To Book Dog-Friendly Charter Flights

Here is a list of dog-friendly charter flights that cater to your and your dog’s needs and comfort. Whether you plan to stroll the streets of Paris or London, these charter flight companies can ensure everyone can reach their destinations safely.

Villiers Jet

Villiers Jet is the ultimate luxury charter jet experience, and they can fly you and your pup to over 40,000 destinations! They provide shared charter flights and exceptional service that reduce travel time and saves you money. 

The best thing about Villiers Jet is that they accept Bitcoin as a payment method! 

Villiers Jet operates routes spanning the entire globe, with the following being among their most popular routes:

FROM	TO
Atlanta	Miami
Barcelona	Ibiza
Birmingham	Paris
Chicago	Los Angeles
Dubai	London
Ibiza	London
Johannesburg	Cape Town
Lagos	Dubai
London	Paris, Ibiza, Nice, New York, Dubai Amsterdam, Milan, Malaga, Los Angeles Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Faro Geneva, Rome, Las Vegas, Moscow Tenerife, Orlando, Madrid, Cannes Edinburgh, Newquay, Alicante, Athens Mykonos, Berlin, Kiev, Lagos Lisbon, Manchester
Los Angeles	Miami, Las Vegas, New York
Miami	New York
Milan	London
Milan	Ibiza
New York	Miami, Los Angeles, Las Vegas
Paris	London
Singapore	Bangkok
Toronto	New York

VistaJet

Flying with large dogs in cabin will not be a problem with VistaJet. VistaJet strives to transform air travel into a lavish experience for both pets and their owners. They even launched a VistaPet Program! 

Collaborating closely with veterinarians, groomers, dietitians, and coaches, the company went the extra mile to ensure their services genuinely alleviated pet anxiety. To illustrate, they teamed up with clinical veterinarian Dr. Bruce Fogle to craft a well-rounded menu that promotes pet hydration and well-being. Additionally, cabin hosts can provide natural flower essences to blend into your pets’ drinking water, contributing to their relaxation during the flight.

To ensure the safety of animal travelers, every VistaJet Cabin Hostess undergoes comprehensive training in all aspects of pet first aid.

This thorough training curriculum encompasses the latest standards in pet care and air travel health and safety. It covers procedures for pet CPR, understanding vital signs like heart rate and pulse points, and even delves into interpreting different body language cues to understand pet behaviors better.

Within VistaJet’s Private World, a carefully curated selection of the finest pet-friendly accommodations worldwide awaits. This ensures that your pet’s journey remains smooth and hassle-free, even at the destination.

Upon arrival, their team is ready to direct you to top-notch pet-friendly hotels and grooming salons. They can also assist in arranging pet walkers or trainers and organizing on-ground activities like pet yoga and surfing. To add a memorable touch, they even coordinate with photographers to capture those cherished moments with your furry companion in the destination.

Taking dog-friendly flying to a whole new level, flying with VistaJet sounds like an absolute dream!

Vista Jet Pet Program

EVO Jets

Evo Jets has a range of options to meet your needs, whether it’s a pet-friendly trip or a medical flight. They also provide last-minute charter flights. So, if you decide to switch to a pet-friendly charter flight at the eleventh hour, Evo Jets can still accommodate your request.

JSX

JSX stands as an independent airline in the U.S. They pitch themselves as a “hop-on jet service,” offering domestic flights mostly in the southern U.S. but spanning coast to coast. JSX allows pets in cabin that are up to 65 pounds. 

The cool thing? JSX flights leave from private terminals, saving you from the traffic and airport chaos.

Oh, and you only need to show up 30 minutes before takeoff time!

Their flights are wired with Wi-Fi, coffee, tea, water, and restrooms. Right now, they’re flying in and out of Arizona, California, Florida, Montana, Nevada, New York, Texas, Utah, and Washington.

JSX Pet Policy

Aero

Much like JSX, Aero operates as a semi-private airline but takes luxury to the next level. While their flights might dent your wallet a bit more, the experience is truly premium. Their cozy aircraft boast leather seats catering to up to 16 travelers, and they even extend their services to Europe. 

For pets that fall in the 20 to 65-pound range and are of medium to large size, an extra seat must be bought at the regular full price.

Like JSX, Aero also leaves from exclusive terminals and offers direct flights in first-class style.

In the United States, they’re currently offering bookings for trips originating in L.A. headed to Aspen, Las Vegas, Jackson Hole, and Sun Valley.

Unfortunately, while Aero operates flights in Europe, they do not permit pets on these flights.

Aero Pet Policy

Tradewind Aviation

Based in Oxford, Connecticut, Tradewind Aviation offers on-demand and scheduled flights across the U.S. and the Caribbean, making it an ideal choice for your vacation plans!

In the U.S., they cover spots like Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Newport, Rhode Island, and Stowe, Vermont. In the Caribbean, they serve destinations including San Juan, St. Barthes, Anguilla, Antigua, and St. Thomas.

All sorts of pets, even larger dogs, are warmly welcomed aboard Tradewind Aviation’s Citation CJ3s and Pilatus PC-12s, known for their spacious cabins. One party with pets is allowed per flight, and dogs over 100 pounds require an extra seat purchase. For other pets, they’re all set to hit the skies with you.

The Tradewind Aviation Dog-Friendly Experience

Surf-Air

Surf Air is a jet membership service covering destinations across the United States. Much like Tradewind Aviation, they offer both scheduled semi-private flights and on-demand jet service. Their memberships range from $199/month, granting access to scheduled flights, to $3,000/month, unlocking unlimited flight plans.

Based in Los Angeles, Surf Air has numerous hubs in California and Texas, with an additional presence in various states. They also have plans for expansion into Europe shortly.

Surf Air permits dogs weighing up to 100 pounds. Typically, their flights allow one pet per trip, but depending on the Operator’s guidelines and approval, a second pet on the same flight might be allowed at their discretion. If a second animal is okayed for the flight, their combined weight must not exceed 100 pounds.

For your dog to board, they should be at least four months old, weigh no more than 100 pounds, and exhibit cleanliness, good behavior, and up-to-date vaccinations. Passengers traveling with dogs should inform Surf Air and purchase a separate Single-Use Flight Pass for the pet at least two days before the flight.

Surf Air Pet Policy

BLADE

BLADE allows passengers to secure individual seats on scheduled flights covering the Northeast and West Coasts. Moreover, they provide the option to charter flights globally or crowdsource trips.

Their flight routes encompass prominent destinations such as NYC, the Hamptons, Nantucket, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Aspen, the Jersey Coast, and various area airports.

On BLADE Jets, you must purchase an additional seat for dogs over 35 pounds.

BLADE Pet Policy

K9 JETS

When it comes to pampering our pups, there’s a new player in the game, and they’re taking pet travel to the next level. At K9 JETS, dogs aren’t just passengers but VIPs. K9 JETS is a pay-per-seat shared private jet charter jet company.

One seat purchased allows you to bring a maximum of two pets weighing under 50 lbs each OR one weighing over 51 lbs. You must buy two seats if you have two pets weighing over 51lbs. They do this to ensure your pet’s and other passengers’ comfort and safety onboard.

The all-inclusive price of seats is fixed and will not change. This includes taxes, refreshments, snacks, a personalized gift, and pet handling costs in London.

Here are their current routes:

• London to Dubai, New Jersey
• New Jersey to Paris, London, Los Angeles, Frankfurt, and Lisbon
• Paris to New Jersey
• Los Angeles to London, New Jersey, 
• Dubai to London
• Lisbon to New Jersey
• Frankfurt to New Jersey

Tips For Before Flying On A Dog-Friendly Charter Flight

Here are tips to ensure your travel experience with your dog is remarkable and less distressing.

1. Head to the vet. Plan a visit to the vet for a thorough check-up. Ensuring your pet’s good health for the trip is crucial – no one wants a sick pup during the flight. Additionally, secure all the essential paperwork from the vet, including vaccination records and a health certificate.
2. Bring bedding and comfort items like toys. Travel can stress dogs out, so making sure they’re cozy onboard is a smart move.
3. Load up on treats. Not only can your dog be hungry, but chomping on treats can also help with ear pressure during the flight.
4. Opt for a harness over a collar. Harnesses offer greater safety and are particularly helpful in reducing anxiety, especially for dogs.
5. Feed a light meal 4 hours before your flight. This is in case they feel nausea during the flight and lessens the chance your dog needs to pee or poop on the flight.
6. Make sure your furry friend empties their bladder and bowels just before boarding.
7. Bring pee-pads. While a charter flight usually has restrooms, it’s a smart idea to pack pee-pads for your dog to be on the safe side.

Chartered Flights Are The Way Best Way For Flying Large dogs In Cabin

As a dedicated dog parent, you’ve probably taken your dog on all sorts of adventures. And let’s face it, their safety and comfort are right at the top of the list. For me, there’s no way I’d ever toss my Siberian Husky, Gatsby, into cargo, stuck in a crate. He needs to be right there with me.

Sure, dog-friendly charter flights and flying with large dogs in cabin might be pricier than hopping on a regular commercial plane. But I’d happily shell out a bit more money to keep my dog stress-free and dodge a terrible experience. I mean, when it comes to our pups, aren’t we all about going the extra mile to keep them happy and sound?

Will you be flying with a large dog in cabin on one of the dog-friendly charted flights listed above? If you do, I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!

Other Travel Articles That May Interest You

Dog-Friendly Places In NYC To Visit With Your Dog

A Guide to the 16 Best Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Boston

Dog-Friendly Philadelphia: Where to Stay, Eat and Things To Do

Hiking at Acadia National Park: Where to Stay, Hike, And Eat With Your Dog

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Thank you for your support of this blog.