Discover the Lufthansa Pet Policy, a vital guide for pet owners planning to journey with their four-legged companions. Lufthansa, a customer-oriented airline, implements specific guidelines to ensure pet safety during air travel. This article explores Lufthansa’s pet policy, addressing common queries and preparations for a pet-friendly journey.
Whether bringing your pet in-cabin or arranging cargo transportation, we aim to provide knowledge for informed decisions and a pleasant travel experience with your beloved furry friend. Learn about pet travel requirements, possible restrictions, and booking procedures to ensure your pet’s comfort and well-being throughout the trip.
Understanding Lufthansa’s policies will help make your travels stress-free and enjoyable, providing peace of mind for you and a safe, comfortable journey for your cherished pet. Therefore, let’s get started with it and learn more about the Pet Policy.
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Lufthansa Pet Policy Overview
The Pet Policy is designed to accommodate passengers who wish to travel with their beloved pets while ensuring their safety, comfort, and well-being throughout the journey. The policy permits the transportation of cats and dogs on most flights, with options for in-cabin travel or transport in the cargo hold, depending on the pet’s size and breed.
For in-cabin pets, small cats and dogs are allowed, provided they are carried in an approved pet carrier that fits under the seat. This allows pet owners to keep their furry companions close during the flight. In contrast, larger pets or those ineligible for in-cabin travel can be transported safely in the cargo hold in specialized crates.
To ensure a seamless travel experience, passengers are required to inform Lufthansa during the booking process and adhere to specific health and documentation requirements. Health certificates from licensed veterinarians are mandatory for all traveling pets, irrespective of their destination.
Lufthansa charges pet transportation fees based on the pet’s weight and destination, with in-cabin options usually having lower fees compared to cargo travel. Service animals accompanying passengers with disabilities are welcome in the cabin at no additional cost.
By providing clear guidelines and prioritizing the comfort and safety of both pets and their owners, Lufthansa’s Pet Policy aims to create a pet-friendly travel environment, allowing cherished companions to be a part of memorable journeys with their human companions.
Lufthansa Airlines Pet Travel Policy
Lufthansa offers a comprehensive pet travel policy that caters to different animal sizes and destinations. Below are details of the same:
Lufthansa Pet in Cabin
In-cabin travel is limited to small dogs and cats, weighing up to 17.6lb/8kg, with prices ranging from USD 72 to USD 120 on intercontinental routes. Cats and dogs must be at least 12 weeks old for most destinations, but 16 weeks if traveling to/from the United States. Passengers with disabilities can bring trained service dogs to the cabin free of charge.
Pets in Checked Baggage
For larger pets, such as cats, dogs, rabbits, and hares, they can be transported as checked baggage. Only one animal is allowed per crate, and the pet fee ranges from USD 115 to USD 437 based on size and route. Certain destinations, like Hong Kong and the United Kingdom, do not allow pets as checked baggage.
Lufthansa Pet Cargo
Pet cargo service is available for larger and unaccompanied animals, including horses and ornamental fish. Wide-body aircraft can accommodate series 700 crates. Pets traveling through Frankfurt with stopovers exceeding 3 hours can enjoy watering, feeding, and walking benefits.
All pet travel must comply with health requirements, including health certificates and proper documentation. Sedating pets before the trip or feeding and watering within 4 hours of departure is not recommended. Pets must be well-behaved and odorless to ensure a smooth journey. The age requirements for puppies and kittens depend on the destination country’s regulations.
Does Lufthansa allow Pets in the cabin?
The pet policy for in-cabin travel (pets on board) offers a seamless and enjoyable experience for passengers journeying with their furry friends. To secure a spot for your pet, it is essential to register and confirm at least 24 hours before departure, with earlier bookings recommended for better availability.
In-cabin travel is limited to small dogs and cats, with specific guidelines to ensure comfort and safety. The pet carriers must meet IATA standards and have dimensions not exceeding 55 x 40 x 23cm (22 x 16 x 9in), with a maximum weight of 17.6lb/8kg, including the pet. To comply with safety regulations, pets must not wear items that could cause strangulation, such as collars, harnesses, leads, or muzzles.
Passengers can bring up to two pets, one in the cabin and one as checked baggage. Required pet travel documents include official and veterinary records, along with filled-out ‘Transporting an Animal in the Passenger Cabin’ forms. Health certificates, including vaccinations and microchipping, are essential to ensure the well-being of your pet.
Certain dog breeds, categorized as dangerous or fighting dogs, are not permitted to travel in the cabin. However, they are allowed as checked baggage in specialized crates. The restricted breeds include Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweilers, Karabash (Kangal) (Anatolian Shepherd Dog), Dogo Argentino, Caucasian Ovcharka (Caucasian Shepherd Dog), Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and American Bulldog.
Additionally, specific dog breeds are not allowed to enter Germany but are eligible for travel departing from Germany. These breeds are American Staffordshire Terriers, Bull Terriers, Pit Bull Terriers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
Passengers traveling with pets should be aware of these restrictions and make appropriate arrangements for their pet’s travel based on Lufthansa’s guidelines. These measures are put in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers and their pets during air travel.
Requirements for Lufthansa Pet Policy
Lufthansa policy outlines specific requirements to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for pets traveling with their owners. Here are the key requirements:
- Pet Reservations: Register and confirm your pet’s travel at least 24 hours before departure (preferably 72 hours) by contacting Lufthansa’s dedicated service center or hotline. Follow the same for cancellation policy too.
- Pet Age: Pets must be at least 16 weeks old for travel to/from the United States and 12 weeks old for travel to/from other countries.
- In-Cabin Pets: Only small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin. The maximum weight, including the pet, should not exceed 17.6lb/8kg. The pet carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and meet IATA standards.
- Pet Carriers: For in-cabin travel, pet carriers should have dimensions not exceeding 55 x 40 x 23cm (22 x 16 x 9in). The carrier must be lined with absorbent material and must not contain straw, newspapers, or cardboard.
- Health Requirements: Pets must have the required pet health certificates for veterinary examinations and treatments, including vaccinations and microchipping.
- Pet Travel Documents: Official and veterinary documents, such as a pet passport, must be carried during travel. Passengers must fill out and sign two printouts of the ‘Transporting an Animal in the Passenger Cabin’ form.
- Pet Fee: Pet travel prices range from USD 72 within Europe to USD 120 on intercontinental routes for in-cabin pets.
- Pet Lead and Collar: Passengers must carry their pet’s lead and collar with them in their carry-on bag.
- Breed Restrictions: Some dog breeds classified as dangerous or fighting dogs cannot travel in the cabin but may be allowed as checked baggage in specialized crates. Additionally, certain breeds are not allowed to enter Germany but can travel out of the country.
Complying with Lufthansa’s pet policy ensures a smooth travel experience for both passengers and their pets, making the journey enjoyable and stress-free for all involved. Pet owners need to review and meet all requirements before traveling to avoid any last-minute complications.
How to Travel with a Service Animal on Lufthansa?
Traveling with a service animal on Lufthansa is a straightforward process, as the airline is committed to accommodating passengers with disabilities and their trained service animals. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to travel with a service animal on Lufthansa:
Pre-Travel Preparation
Before your journey, it is essential to inform Lufthansa about your service animal’s travel plans. Contact Lufthansa’s service center or reservation hotline to provide advance notice and ensure necessary arrangements are in place.
Required Documentation
While traveling with a service animal, certain documentation may be necessary. Ensure you have proper and up-to-date paperwork, which may include a service animal identification card, any required health certificates, and other relevant documents. Familiarize yourself with the specific documentation requirements for your destination, as regulations may vary.
Booking and Check-In
When booking your flight, inform Lufthansa of your service animal’s presence. During the check-in process, mention that you will be traveling with a service animal. This information will help the airline staff to provide the appropriate seating and other necessary arrangements.
Service Animal in the Cabin
Service animals are allowed to accompany passengers in the cabin at no additional cost. They can sit at the passenger’s feet or in the space in front of the seat, provided they do not obstruct the aisle.
Safety and Comfort
Lufthansa places a high priority on ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers, including those with service animals. Service animals should be well-behaved and remain under the control of their owners at all times. It is recommended to keep service animals harnessed or on a leash during the flight.
Relief Areas
Lufthansa provides designated relief areas for service animals at airports where possible. Before your flight, inquire about the availability and location of relief areas at the airports you will be transiting through.
International Travel
If you are traveling internationally, familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and requirements for service animals in your destination country. Some countries may have additional entry requirements, such as quarantine procedures or health checks.
In-Flight Amenities
Lufthansa’s flight attendants are trained to assist passengers with disabilities and service animals. If you require any assistance during the flight, do not hesitate to ask the cabin crew for support.
By following these guidelines and communicating with Lufthansa regarding your service animal, you can ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for both you and your devoted companion. Lufthansa is dedicated to providing an inclusive travel experience for all passengers, including those traveling with service animals, and strives to accommodate their unique needs throughout the entire journey.
Lufthansa Pet Travel Fee
Lufthansa’s pet travel prices are designed to accommodate pets traveling in various ways, whether in the cabin, as checked baggage in the cargo hold, or as cargo. The cost varies depending on the pet’s travel method, the size of the pet carrier, and the route.
For in-cabin pets, which include dogs and cats traveling with their owners in the passenger cabin as carry-on baggage, the pet travel prices range from USD 60 within Germany to USD 132 on long intercontinental routes. For routes within Europe, the price is USD 72, and for medium intercontinental routes (Europe to USA/East Coast), it is USD 120.
If pets are transported as checked baggage in the cargo hold, the prices depend on the pet carrier’s size and the destination. Prices start at USD 92 for pet carrier size up to 60 x 45 x 40cm within Germany and go up to USD 437 for carrier size up to 125 x 75 x 85cm on long intercontinental routes.
It’s important to note that Lufthansa will not transport animals as excess baggage if the pet container size exceeds 125cm x 75cm x 85cm.
By offering competitive pet travel prices and accommodating pets in different travel scenarios, Lufthansa aims to make pet travel accessible and convenient for pet owners. Passengers can be assured that their furry companions will receive the utmost care and comfort during their journey with Lufthansa.
In conclusion, Lufthansa has a comprehensive and accommodating pet policy that caters to passengers traveling with pets. The airline allows pets to travel in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo, depending on their size and travel requirements. Passengers can travel with small dogs and cats in the cabin, while larger pets can be transported in the cargo hold. Lufthansa prioritizes the safety, comfort, and well-being of all pets and their owners, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. With reasonable pet travel prices and clear guidelines, the airlines makes sure you have a pleasant flight with your furry companion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Lufthansa Pet Policy
Yes, Lufthansa allows pets to travel on their flights. They accept pets in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo, depending on the pet’s size and the passenger’s preferences.
Lufthansa allows pets in the cabin, which includes both economy and business class cabins. However, there are restrictions on the size and number of pets allowed in the cabin, and they must be placed in an approved pet carrier.
Yes, Lufthansa allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin as carry-on baggage. The pets must remain in an approved pet carrier that meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions.
To book a pet ticket for a Lufthansa flight, you need to contact Lufthansa’s service center or reservation hotline. It is recommended to do this well in advance, at least 24 hours before departure (preferably 72 hours), to secure a spot for your pet. Inform the airline that you will be traveling with a pet and provide all the necessary information, such as the pet’s size and type of carrier.
