Turkish Airlines Pet Policy – Travelling with Pets in Cabin

Turkish Airlines is one of the most decent airlines that understands your concern for your pets and offers a fantastic Turkish Airlines pet policy. They have established a comprehensive and accommodating pet policy that allows passengers to bring their pets along on their journeys. With a focus on ensuring the safety and comfort of both pets and passengers, Turkish Airlines strives to create a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for everyone involved.

The article below is a comprehensive guide explaining the Turkish Airlines pet travel process, the rules and regulations, and even the guidelines. So let us move ahead and know how to make the journey of your four-legged companion the best one. 

Understanding the Turkish Airline Pet Policy

Turkish Airlines has a pet policy allowing passengers to travel with their pets in the cabin or as checked baggage. Small pets under 8kg or 17 lbs are permitted to be carried along in the cabin, such as dogs, cats, and birds. However, the larger pets can be transported by the airlines as checked baggage in the cargo hold. 

For passengers traveling with their pets, it is crucial to ensure that pets meet health and vaccination requirements, and a suitable pet carrier is required for cabin travel. It comes under the Turkish Airlines pet travel policy, that the airlines charge a fee for pet transportation, and certain breed restrictions or seasonal limitations may apply.

Below explained are the tips and details to be kept in mind while traveling with pets:

About the Type of Pets Allowed on the flights

Turkish Airlines permits the transportation of certain types of pets in the cabin or as cargo. Generally, small dogs, cats, and birds are allowed in the cabin, while larger pets and other animals must be transported as cargo. Understanding the distinctions and requirements for each category before making travel arrangements is crucial.

Cabin Pet Policy

As per the updates shared by Turkish Airlines in September 2021, the Airline allows their passengers to travel with their pets in the cabin along with some conditions and guidelines as mentioned below:

1. Size and weight restrictions: Turkish Airlines pets in the cabin are small size pets such as cats, dogs, and birds. The total weight of the pet allows in the cabin is 8kgs or 17 lbs.
2. Pet Reservations: The Turkish Airlines pet in-cabin policy states that the passenger should make a reservation for the pet in advance with the Airline. Turkish Airlines has a limited number of pet spots available in the cabin, so it’s recommended to contact the Airline as early as possible to secure a spot for your pet.
3. Pet Carriers: This policy allows passengers to carry their pet carriers. However, it should be secure, leak-proof, and well-ventilated. 
4. Pet Health Requirements: The Turkish Airlines pet-in-cabin policy states that pets must travel in the cabin at least ten weeks old. Additionally, pets should be healthy and not show signs of illness or distress. It’s a good idea to have your pet examined by a veterinarian before traveling to ensure they are fit for the journey.
5. Turkish Airlines Pet Fee: There is an additional fee when the passengers are traveling with pets; that depends upon the route you are traveling through. 

Cargo Pet Policy

As per the updates shared by Turkish Airlines in September 2021, the Airline allows their passengers to travel with their pets through their cargo division along with some conditions and guidelines as mentioned below:

1. Pet Reservations and Documentation: The Turkish airline cargo pets are asked to make appropriate reservations with the Turkish Airlines cargo department. You will also be required to provide specific documentation, including health certificates, vaccination records, and any other necessary permits or import/export documentation based on the origin and destination of the pet.
2. Pet Health Requirements Turkish Airlines may have specific age and health requirements for pets traveling as cargo. It’s essential to inquire about any age restrictions or health certifications needed for your pet before making arrangements.
3. Transportation of Live Animals: The Turkish Airlines pet policy states that the Airline has specialized procedures and facilities to ensure the safe transportation of live animals in the cargo hold. They adhere to international standards and guidelines to provide pets with a secure and comfortable environment during transit.
4. Fee for Turkish Airline Cargo Pets: The pets traveling through the cargo division have to pay some additional fees. 

International Travel Regulations

When pets are traveling internationally, there are several rules and regulations to follow, such as:

• The Turkish airline’sAirlines international set policy varies by the destination country.
• It is essential to research and comply with the import and export requirements of the destination country.
• Documentation may be necessary, such as health certificates, vaccination records, and permits.
• Each country may have specific requirements for microchipping and quarantine.
• Consult with Turkish Airlines and the relevant authorities to ensure compliance with the destination country’s regulations.
• Contact Turkish Airlines directly or visit their official website(www.turkishairlines.com) for the most up-to-date information on international travel regulations for pets.

Vaccination Requirements Under Turkish Airlines Pet Travel Policy

Below mentioned are the requirements in terms of health and vaccination of the pets traveling:

• A health certificate of the pet is required from a licensed veterinarian
• Details and documents related to Up-to-date vaccinations, including rabies vaccination, are often needed.
• Microchipping may be necessary for identification purposes in some countries.
• Additional permits, such as import or export permits and veterinary inspection certificates, may be required.
• The passenger should person the research and follow all the vaccination requirements for the specific destination country they are traveling to.

About the Booking Process and Fees for Traveling with Pets

As per the updates shared by Turkish Airlines in September 2021, they have mentioned a few procedures to be followed for booking and fees for the pets traveling.

Booking

• The passenger should contact Turkish Airlines to make a reservation for their pet in advance.
• Turkish Airlines has a limited number of spots available for pets in the cabin and cargo hold, so booking as early as possible is recommended to secure a spot for your pet.

Fees

• Turkish Airlines charges an additional fee if the pet is traveling in a cabin or cargo.
• The specific fees associated with pet travel, including the fee for transporting pets as cargo, can be obtained by contacting Turkish Airlines directly or checking their official website.
• It’s important to note that fees for pet transportation are typically separate from regular baggage fees and are usually charged in addition to the standard ticket fare.

Handling Procedures and Pet Safety For the Pets Traveling With Turkish Airlines

Now, the airlines have some handling procedures for your pet safety that you must know. Below are the detailed description of the same:

Handling Procedures

• The airlines have dedicated personnel trained in handling pets to ensure their safety and well-being during travel.
• The Turkish Airlines pet-in-cabin policy says that the pets should remain in their carriers for the duration of the flight, and the airline should be stowed under the seat in front of the passenger.
• Trained staff follows specific procedures when handling pets in the cabin and as cargo to minimize stress and ensure their comfort during the journey.
• Turkish Airlines has specialized procedures and facilities for pets traveling as cargo to ensure their safety and comfort. This may include temperature-controlled areas and appropriate handling protocols.

Pet Safety

• Turkish Airlines prioritizes the safety and welfare of pets traveling on their flights.
• They adhere to international standards and guidelines for transporting live animals to provide a secure and comfortable environment.
• Turkish Airlines may have specific requirements for pet carriers, such as ensuring they are leak-proof, well-ventilated, and provide adequate space for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Temperature control measures are implemented to ensure the well-being of pets during the journey, particularly for those traveling in the cargo hold.

Restrictions on the Pets Traveling

Below are the restrictions included in the Turkish Airline per policy:

• The Airlines may have breed restrictions for certain dog breeds or types of animals.
• The Airlines have mentioned the minimum age for pets to travel.
• Pets must be in good health and free from contagious diseases or conditions.
• Specific country-specific restrictions on pet importation may apply.
• It’s essential to research and comply with the regulations and restrictions of the destination country.
• Contact Turkish Airlines directly or visit their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on any restrictions that apply to their pet policy.
• Its very important to be aware of the cancellation policies of the airlines when traveling with your pet to avoid any further hassles.

Along with the Turkish Airlines pet policy, passengers can embark on a journey with their furry companion, knowing their comfort and safety are prioritized. Mentioned above are all the requirements, guidelines, and procedures for traveling with your pet seamlessly. Remember to plan, make reservations in advance, and ensure compliance with all regulations and guidelines to ensure a pleasant and stress-free travel experience for you and your beloved pet. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)