In-Cabin
Max weight (pet + carrier): 17 lbs
Max carrier dimensions: 45 × 35 × 20 cm
In-cabin fee: Contact airline
Cargo
Ethiopian Cargo accepts live animals on most routes via Addis Ababa (ADD). Pricing on request. Ethiopian has one of Africa's most extensive cargo networks, connecting 60+ African countries.
Route Restrictions
In-cabin on most Ethiopian-operated routes for pets ≤8 kg combined. Cargo available across the African and international network.
Breed Restrictions
- Brachycephalic breeds restricted from cargo hold — in-cabin permitted if under 8 kg
- Aggressive breeds subject to documentation requirements
Paws en route Notes
Ethiopian is the most connected carrier in Africa and our primary recommendation for sub-Saharan African relocations. Addis Ababa hub connects virtually all major African cities. In-cabin fee varies by route and priced in ETB — contact the airline for USD equivalent.
Done-for-You Service
Ethiopian Airlines's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.
Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against Ethiopian Airlines's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.
Get a Ethiopian Airlines relocation quoteIn-Cabin Carriers
Ethiopian Airlines Approved In-Cabin Pet Carriers
To fly in-cabin with Ethiopian Airlines, your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 45 × 35 × 20 cm. We stock carriers sized to fit — send us a note and we'll pair you with the right one.
Recommended: Low-Profile Carrier
Airline Approved Soft-Sided Low-Profile Carrier
Sized for Ethiopian Airlines's 20 cm height limit — fits flush under the seat without compression.
- Leak-proof bottom
- Ventilation on 3+ sides
- Soft-sided to compress under seat
Cargo Kennels
Ethiopian Airlines Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels
For pets traveling in the hold, Ethiopian 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 Ethiopian 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 flightCommon Questions
Ethiopian Airlines pet travel — frequently asked
Does Ethiopian Airlines allow pets in the cabin?
Yes, Ethiopian Airlines allows small pets in-cabin on select routes. The combined pet and carrier weight must not exceed 17 lbs. Always confirm eligibility on your specific route when booking.
Are there breed restrictions on Ethiopian Airlines?
Yes, Ethiopian Airlines restricts certain breeds including Brachycephalic breeds restricted from cargo hold — in-cabin permitted if under 8 kg and Aggressive breeds subject to documentation requirements. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.
Does Ethiopian Airlines have a summer cargo embargo for pets?
No summer cargo embargo is listed for Ethiopian Airlines. Temperature-based restrictions may still apply on specific routes — always verify at the time of booking.
