In-Cabin
Max weight (pet + carrier): 20 lbs
Max carrier dimensions: 45 × 35 × 22 cm
In-cabin fee: $100 USD
Cargo
El Al Cargo accepts live animals on eligible routes. Pricing on request — contact El Al Cargo directly. Israel arrival requires Ministry of Agriculture import permit.
Route Restrictions
In-cabin on most El Al routes for pets ≤9 kg (pet + carrier combined). Cargo available on full network. All flights originate/arrive at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion (TLV).
Breed Restrictions
- Brachycephalic breeds subject to hold restrictions — in-cabin permitted if under 9 kg
- Dangerous breeds (pit bull types, Rottweiler) may be refused
Paws en route Notes
El Al's in-cabin weight limit (9 kg combined) is slightly more generous than most European carriers. Israel's Ministry of Agriculture import requirements are detailed — prepare 6–8 weeks ahead. Security protocols add extra time at check-in.
Done-for-You Service
El Al's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.
Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against El Al's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.
Get a El Al relocation quoteIn-Cabin Carriers
El Al Approved In-Cabin Pet Carriers
To fly in-cabin with El Al, your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 45 × 35 × 22 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 El Al's 22 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
El Al Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels
For pets traveling in the hold, El Al 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 El Al'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
El Al pet travel — frequently asked
Does El Al allow pets in the cabin?
Yes, El Al allows small pets in-cabin on select routes. The combined pet and carrier weight must not exceed 20 lbs, and a per-trip fee of $100 USD applies. Always confirm eligibility on your specific route when booking.
Are there breed restrictions on El Al?
Yes, El Al restricts certain breeds including Brachycephalic breeds subject to hold restrictions — in-cabin permitted if under 9 kg and Dangerous breeds (pit bull types, Rottweiler) may be refused. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.
Does El Al have a summer cargo embargo for pets?
No summer cargo embargo is listed for El Al. Temperature-based restrictions may still apply on specific routes — always verify at the time of booking.
