Cargo
Qantas does not accept pets in cabin or as standard checked baggage. Live animal cargo must be booked through a licensed pet travel specialist or Qantas Freight directly. Australia import preparation typically takes 6–12 months for most countries of origin.
Route Restrictions
Cargo only via Qantas Freight — bookings via specialist only. No in-cabin transport. Australia's biosecurity is among the world's most complex — only eligible countries can use the approved country pathway; others face lengthy quarantine.
Breed Restrictions
- Brachycephalic breeds not accepted as checked baggage or standard cargo
- All breeds: Australia import is managed by DAFF (Dept. of Agriculture) with country-specific pathways
Paws en route Notes
Australia has the most complex pet import process in the world for most countries. Qantas Freight is the flag carrier option but the critical work is the DAFF import preparation (health tests, residency windows, approved country status). We manage Australian import exclusively for clients — this is never a DIY process.
Done-for-You Service
Qantas's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.
Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against Qantas's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.
Get a Qantas relocation quoteCargo Kennels
Qantas Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels
For pets traveling in the hold, Qantas 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 Qantas'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
Qantas pet travel — frequently asked
Does Qantas allow pets in the cabin?
Qantas does not currently offer in-cabin pet travel. Pets may travel as cargo — see the cargo policy above for available options.
Are there breed restrictions on Qantas?
Yes, Qantas restricts certain breeds including Brachycephalic breeds not accepted as checked baggage or standard cargo and All breeds: Australia import is managed by DAFF (Dept. of Agriculture) with country-specific pathways. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.
Does Qantas have a summer cargo embargo for pets?
No summer cargo embargo is listed for Qantas. Temperature-based restrictions may still apply on specific routes — always verify at the time of booking.
