In-Cabin
Max weight (pet + carrier): 22 lbs
Max carrier dimensions: 43 × 25 × 23 cm
In-cabin fee: Contact airline
Cargo
Air India Cargo accepts live animals on eligible routes. Pet policy officially relaunched on January 22, 2026 (after a 4-year suspension during the Tata Group takeover). Contact Air India for current fees, which are route-dependent.
Route Restrictions
In-cabin on Air India-operated routes for pets ≤10 kg combined. Cargo available on domestic and international routes. Hub at Indira Gandhi International (DEL) and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International (BOM).
Breed Restrictions
- Brachycephalic breeds restricted from cargo hold — in-cabin permitted if under 10 kg
- Aggressive breeds subject to cargo documentation requirements
Paws en route Notes
Air India relaunched pet acceptance in January 2026 after a 4-year suspension. Early post-relaunch — verify current policy and availability before booking. India AHEP import permit required for inbound pets; process can take 3–4 months.
Done-for-You Service
Air India's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.
Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against Air India's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.
Get a Air India relocation quoteIn-Cabin Carriers
Air India Approved In-Cabin Pet Carriers
To fly in-cabin with Air India, your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 43 × 25 × 23 cm. We stock carriers sized to fit — send us a note and we'll pair you with the right one.
Recommended: Standard Expandable Carrier
Airline Approved Soft-Sided Expandable Carrier
- Leak-proof bottom
- Ventilation on 3+ sides
- Soft-sided to compress under seat
Cargo Kennels
Air India Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels
For pets traveling in the hold, Air India enforces strict IATA CR-82 regulations. Wire crates and soft-sided bags are prohibited in the cargo hold. We source and size IATA-compliant kennels for your pet — send us a note to get started.
Recommended: IATA-Compliant Hard Kennel
IATA CR-82 Hard-Sided Travel Kennel
- Rigid plastic or fiberglass construction
- Metal nuts and bolts (no plastic snap clips)
- Single-piece, spring-loaded metal door
- Sized for pet to stand, turn, and lie down naturally
Book with this airline?
We verify Air India's policy before every booking.
Policies change. We call the airline, confirm your breed is cleared, and lock in the pet booking — not just the human seat.
Plan your flightCommon Questions
Air India pet travel — frequently asked
Does Air India allow pets in the cabin?
Yes, Air India allows small pets in-cabin on select routes. The combined pet and carrier weight must not exceed 22 lbs. Always confirm eligibility on your specific route when booking.
Are there breed restrictions on Air India?
Yes, Air India restricts certain breeds including Brachycephalic breeds restricted from cargo hold — in-cabin permitted if under 10 kg and Aggressive breeds subject to cargo documentation requirements. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.
Does Air India have a summer cargo embargo for pets?
No summer cargo embargo is listed for Air India. Temperature-based restrictions may still apply on specific routes — always verify at the time of booking.
