Why more owners are choosing private jets for their pets

The question used to be whether you could take your pet. Increasingly, it’s simply: why wouldn’t you?

 Image courtesy of Bombardier Inc.

More travellers are discovering that taking the family pet abroad no longer has to mean stressful goodbyes at the cargo hold or leaving them behind all together. Whether it’s a Dachshund joining you for an extended summer escape or a Labrador relocating with the whole household, owners are increasingly turning to private aviation as the calmer, more humane alternative.  

The shift reflects broader changes in how people live and work. The rise of flexible working patterns and hybrid lifestyles have normalised longer periods spent abroad, and in 2026, the definition of the family heading to the airport very often includes four legs. Commercial airlines have responded with tighter restrictions rather than greater accommodation, making private aviation not just a preference, but for many, the only sensible option.

So, which pets can fly onboard a private jet?

Most private charter operators, including our vetted partners at 365 Aviation, welcome dogs and cats as standard. In many cases, small exotic animals can also be accommodated depending on the operator and destination requirements.

A few important considerations:

Size and weight: Unlike commercial airlines, private charters are far more flexible on size. Large breeds, even Great Danes, can travel comfortably in the cabin of a midsize or large-cabin jet.

Number of pets: Again, private aviation offers considerably more flexibility. Two dogs? Three cats? A tortoise and a tabby? We've seen it all. The key is letting us know in advance so the right arrangements can be made.

Final approval will always sit with the operator, but we’ll guide you through every step to make the process seamless.

What documents do you need?

Paperwork is the foundation of stress-free pet travel. Getting this right, and getting it right early, is non-negotiable.

1. Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785-compliant 15-digit chip before their rabies vaccination. If the vaccination was given before the chip, it doesn't count, the clock resets from the microchip date.

2. Rabies Vaccination: Required for travel to virtually all destinations. For a first vaccination, your pet must wait at least 21 days before entering most countries. Booster vaccinations given on schedule are valid immediately. Factor this waiting period into your planning well before you book.

3. Animal Health Certificate (AHC): Since Brexit, UK residents can no longer use an EU Pet Passport for travel into EU countries. Instead, you'll need an Animal Health Certificate, issued by a vet no more than 10 days before arrival in the EU.

4. Vaccination Records: Carry your pet's full vaccination history, particularly proof of rabies coverage. Depending on your destination, additional vaccinations may be required.

5. Destination-Specific Requirements: Requirements vary by country. Portugal, for example, requires a pre-arrival notification submitted to DGAV at least 48 hours before your pet lands. Some countries have restricted or prohibited breed lists. Our team will guide you through every specific requirement for your route.

If you're uncertain about any of the above, please don’t hesitate to ask any questions, we’re here to help! Chat with us on WhatsApp

Right image courtesy of Embraer.

Which aircraft are best suited for pet travel?

Not every aircraft is equally suited for travelling with animals, and the right choice depends on the size of your pet, the length of your flight, and how many animals are joining you.

Light Jets (e.g., Cessna Citation CJ3, Phenom 300) are ideal for smaller pets on shorter routes, a Cockapoo or a Russian Blue cat on a hop to Europe, for instance. Cabin space is more limited, so large dogs are better accommodated elsewhere.

Midsize Jets (e.g., Hawker 800, Citation Latitude) offer a meaningful step up in cabin space and are well-suited for medium-to-large dogs alongside their owners on routes across Europe and beyond.

Large-Cabin Jets (e.g., Bombardier Challenger 650, Gulfstream G450) provide the most generous environment for multiple pets or larger breeds. These aircraft typically feature superior climate control, wider cabin layouts, and the space for your dog to settle comfortably.

In all cases, temperature regulation and pressurisation are managed carefully. Unlike commercial cargo holds, your pet in a private cabin is in the same controlled environment as you, never out of sight, never out of mind.

Practical tips for a smooth flight

Visit your vet before you fly. 

A pre-travel health check ensures your pet is fit to fly and gives you the opportunity to discuss any anxiety or motion sensitivity.

Stick to routines where possible: Familiar smells are enormously reassuring. Bring your pet's favourite blanket or a toy they know well.

Be mindful of feeding: Avoid a large meal immediately before the flight. A light meal a few hours before departure, combined with access to fresh water, is the standard recommendation. Avoid anything that might cause stomach upset en route.

Keep them close: Animals in unfamiliar environments often need emotional reassurance. In a private cabin, there's nothing stopping you from having your dog on your lap or your cat settled beside you throughout the flight.

Arrive prepared, not rushed: We always recommend arriving a little earlier, so your dog has time to stretch before the flight. A calm, unhurried departure sets the tone for the whole journey.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Microchip implant after rabies vaccine (invalid for EU travel)

• Primary (first-ever) rabies vaccine done too late (you must wait 21 days after the vaccine to travel)

• Rabies coverage lapsed (missed required booster vaccine, allowing the previous vaccination's official validity to expire).

How booking works with 365 Aviation

Flying with a pet is no more complicated than any other charter booking, it simply requires a little extra information upfront.

When you contact us, let us know the species and breed of your pet, their approximate weight, the number of animals travelling, and your intended route. From there, our team will identify the right aircraft and operator for your needs, walk you through the documentation requirements for your destination, and ensure everything is coordinated well in advance of your departure.We can also advise on timing for vaccinations and waiting periods and confirm any destination-specific regulations that may apply.

For enquiries about pet-friendly charter flights, contact our team at charter@365aviation.com or call us on +44 203 651 5665