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Airline Guide

Air Canada

Last verified 2026-06Request a Quote
In-cabin allowedCargo availableSummer embargo

In-Cabin

Max weight (pet + carrier): 22 lbs

Max carrier dimensions: 55 × 40 × 23 cm

In-cabin fee: $59 USD

Cargo

Pets travel as checked baggage or via Air Canada Cargo. Domestic/transborder: approx. CAD $105–$126 per direction; international: approx. CAD $270–$324. Contact Air Canada Cargo for exact kennel-size pricing.

Route Restrictions

In-cabin permitted on domestic and select transborder routes; no in-cabin on transatlantic. Cargo/checked baggage available on domestic and international routes.

Breed Restrictions

  • Bulldog (English)
  • French Bulldog
  • Pug
  • Boston Terrier
  • Shih Tzu
  • Pekingese
  • Persian
  • Himalayan

Summer Embargo

Cargo embargoed: June, July, August

Paws en route Notes

Air Canada's cargo program is reliable but enforces temperature embargoes strictly — book well into shoulder seasons, as cargo spots fill fast. All in-cabin carriers must be soft-sided (requirement since June 2025). In-cabin fee is priced in CAD; USD equivalent varies.

Done-for-You Service

Air Canada's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.

Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against Air Canada's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.

Get a Air Canada relocation quote

In-Cabin Carriers

Air Canada Approved In-Cabin Pet Carriers

To fly in-cabin with Air Canada, your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 55 × 40 × 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 Canada Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels

For pets traveling in the hold, Air Canada 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 Canada'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 flight

Common Questions

Air Canada pet travel — frequently asked

Does Air Canada allow pets in the cabin?

Yes, Air Canada allows small pets in-cabin on select routes. The combined pet and carrier weight must not exceed 22 lbs, and a per-trip fee of $59 USD applies. Always confirm eligibility on your specific route when booking.

Are there breed restrictions on Air Canada?

Yes, Air Canada restricts certain breeds including Bulldog (English) and French Bulldog, among others. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.

Does Air Canada have a summer cargo embargo for pets?

Yes, Air Canada suspends live animal cargo during June, July, August. Plan travel in shoulder seasons or contact our team to arrange alternative routing.

Popular Destinations

Pet import requirements by country

Each destination has its own import rules, microchip standards, and quarantine requirements. Check the guides below before you book.

Paws en route propose des services experts de transport d'animaux de compagnie à travers le Canada. Nos spécialistes certifiés IATA coordonnent le transport international d'animaux vers plus de 150 pays — en prenant en charge le transport de chiens, le transport de chats, la conformité vétérinaire, le dédouanement et la livraison porte-à-porte depuis toutes les grandes villes canadiennes.

IPATA — The Pet Shipping Experts