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Airline Guide

Swiss Airlines

Last verified 2026-06Request a Quote
In-cabin allowedCargo available

In-Cabin

Max weight (pet + carrier): 17 lbs

Max carrier dimensions: 55 × 40 × 23 cm

In-cabin fee: $65 USD

Cargo

Swiss is part of the Lufthansa Group — cargo via Lufthansa Cargo network. Live animal pricing available from Lufthansa Cargo or Swiss directly. Pet registration required at least 24 hours before departure.

Route Restrictions

In-cabin on Swiss-operated European and intercontinental routes. Cargo via Lufthansa Cargo globally, connecting through Zurich (ZRH) or Frankfurt (FRA).

Breed Restrictions

  • All brachycephalic breeds banned from hold — may fly in-cabin if under 8 kg
  • Fighting/strong breeds must use Lufthansa Cargo network in reinforced crates

Paws en route Notes

Swiss applies Lufthansa Group brachycephalic hold restrictions. Zurich is a highly efficient transit hub for live animal cargo in Europe. In-cabin fee shown is approximate USD equivalent; Swiss prices in CHF/EUR (~CHF 57–125 by route).

Done-for-You Service

Swiss Airlines's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.

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

Get a Swiss Airlines relocation quote

In-Cabin Carriers

Swiss Airlines Approved In-Cabin Pet Carriers

To fly in-cabin with Swiss Airlines, 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

Swiss Airlines Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels

For pets traveling in the hold, Swiss Airlines 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 Swiss Airlines'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

Swiss Airlines pet travel — frequently asked

Does Swiss Airlines allow pets in the cabin?

Yes, Swiss Airlines allows small pets in-cabin on select routes. The combined pet and carrier weight must not exceed 17 lbs, and a per-trip fee of $65 USD applies. Always confirm eligibility on your specific route when booking.

Are there breed restrictions on Swiss Airlines?

Yes, Swiss Airlines restricts certain breeds including All brachycephalic breeds banned from hold — may fly in-cabin if under 8 kg and Fighting/strong breeds must use Lufthansa Cargo network in reinforced crates. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.

Does Swiss Airlines have a summer cargo embargo for pets?

No summer cargo embargo is listed for Swiss Airlines. Temperature-based restrictions may still apply on specific routes — always verify at the time of booking.

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