Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates headquartered in Abu Dhabi, permits dogs and cats in the cabin on select routes with a flat $1,500 USD one-way fee regardless of distance.
The maximum combined weight is 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including carrier. Larger pets and restricted routes require Etihad Cargo’s LiveAnimals service.
No emotional support animals are recognized, and cabin pets are banned on all U.S. routes, all UK routes, Australia, and several other destinations listed below.
Policies verified against the official Etihad Airways pet travel page at https://www.etihad.com/en/plan/travel-companion/travelling-with-pets. Always confirm current requirements directly with Etihad before booking, as fees, routes, and documentation rules change without notice.
Quick Reference: Etihad Airways Pet Policy
| Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Species permitted (cabin) | Dogs and cats only |
| Cabin weight limit | 8 kg (17.6 lbs) combined pet + carrier |
| Carrier max dimensions | 50 cm L x 43 cm W x 50 cm H (19.7 x 16.9 x 19.7 in) |
| In-cabin fee (Economy, all routes) | $1,500 USD one-way per pet |
| In-cabin fee (Business, all routes) | Extra seat cost + $1,500 USD |
| First Class | Pets not permitted |
| Booking method | Email pets@etihad.ae (minimum 7 days before departure); no online booking |
| Document deadline | All documents emailed to pets@etihad.ae no later than 72 hours before departure |
| Airport check-in | 3 hours before departure; counter only, no online check-in |
| Completely banned breeds | American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bully, Brazilian Mastiff, Argentinian Mastiff, any Mastiff or Mastiff hybrid, Japanese Tosa or Tosa hybrid, Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, Boxer, Canario Presa, and all mixes of the above |
| Brachycephalic breeds (cargo) | Permitted in cargo November 1 to March 1 only |
| Key cabin route bans | All U.S. destinations, UK (London, Manchester), Australia (Melbourne, Sydney), and others listed below |
| Service dogs | Free with ADI or IGDF certification; DOT forms required for U.S. routes |
| ESAs | Not recognized; must travel as standard pets |
| Cargo service | Etihad Cargo LiveAnimals; contact Etihad Cargo directly for pricing |
| US/Canada contact | +1-844-503-2111 |
In-Cabin Travel: Who Qualifies and Core Rules
Etihad permits dogs and cats only in the cabin. The combined weight of pet plus carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs). If your pet alone weighs close to 6 kg (13.2 lbs), factor in carrier weight carefully before booking.
The minimum pet age is 16 weeks. One pet per passenger is the standard limit. If you are traveling with another person from the same household, two pets may be permitted if they are from the same household and known to each other. A separate booking form is required for each pet.
Cabin pets are permitted in Economy and Business class only. Pets are not permitted in First Class under any circumstances. In Business Class, you must purchase an additional seat at the standard seat fare plus the $1,500 USD pet fee.
Key Takeaway: Etihad allows dogs and cats only in the cabin. Maximum combined weight is 8 kg (17.6 lbs) pet plus carrier. Economy and Business only. First Class is not permitted.
Carrier Requirements: Dimensions, Materials, and Fit
Maximum carrier dimensions: 50 cm L x 43 cm W x 50 cm H (19.7 in x 16.9 in x 19.7 in).
Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are accepted. All carriers must meet the following requirements:
- Ventilated on at least three surfaces with mesh panels
- Escape-proof with a rigid door (kennels) or secure entrance (soft carriers)
- Leak-proof bottom with absorbent material
- Large enough for your pet to sit with head erect without touching the roof, stand naturally, turn around, and lie down without touching the sides or top
The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Under-seat clearance varies by aircraft type. An Airbus A320 has less under-seat space than an Airbus A380 or Boeing B777. Confirm the specific aircraft on your route with Etihad before purchasing a carrier.
Pack two or three extra absorbent pads in a zip bag in your carry-on. Gate agents check for leaks, and a wet carrier can cause boarding delays.
Tip: Test the carrier at home for a full day before your trip. If your pet cannot stand upright or turn around comfortably, the carrier is too small regardless of whether it meets the dimension limit.
Booking Process: Step-by-Step
There is no online booking option for cabin pets. All reservations are handled by email submission to pets@etihad.ae. Phone support is available for US and Canada customers at +1-844-503-2111. Approval is not automatic. Etihad reviews documentation and space availability before issuing a payment link.
- Confirm flight eligibility. Verify every segment of your itinerary is operated by Etihad Airways. Pets are not accepted on connecting flights operated by partner or codeshare airlines. Check the route restrictions list below to confirm cabin pets are permitted to your destination.
- Download the Live Animal in Cabin Information Form from https://www.etihadhub.com/content/dam/eag/etihadairways/etihadhub/assets/policy/live-animal-in-cabin-information-form.pdf
- Email the completed form to pets@etihad.ae at least 7 days before departure. Include passenger name, flight details, and pet name, breed, age, weight, and microchip number.
- Email all supporting documents no later than 72 hours before departure. Required documents include health certificates, vaccination records, microchip documentation, and any destination-specific import permits. Documents must be emailed, not presented at the airport for the first time.
- Await approval and payment link. Etihad reviews all submissions. Additional information may be requested. The payment link is issued only after approval.
- Pay the fee. The in-cabin fee is $1,500 USD one-way per pet, or 215,000 Etihad Guest Miles. Business Class passengers must also purchase an additional seat at the standard seat fare.
- Receive email confirmation. A separate pet confirmation is issued distinct from your flight itinerary. Keep both documents.
- Arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure. Check in at the counter. Online check-in is not available for passengers traveling with pets. Present your booking confirmation, pet confirmation, all required documentation, and the travel carrier.
- Carrier inspection at the gate. Crew will verify ventilation and that the carrier is escape-proof. Your pet must remain in the carrier for the entire flight.
Warning: Codeshare flights will result in pet denial at check-in. Confirm every flight segment explicitly states “operated by Etihad Airways” before submitting your booking form.
Recommended booking timeline: Submit the booking form at least 14 days before departure to allow time for airline review, document requests, and payment processing. The absolute minimum is 7 days, but late submissions risk space unavailability.
Fees: Flat Rate Across All Routes
Etihad charges a flat $1,500 USD one-way fee for in-cabin pets on all routes. There are no reduced fees for short-haul or domestic flights. Transiting passengers are charged per flight segment.
| Travel Type | Route | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Cabin (Economy) | All routes | $1,500 USD one-way | Per pet; each transit segment charged separately |
| In-Cabin (Business) | All routes | Extra seat fare + $1,500 USD | Additional seat purchase is mandatory |
| In-Cabin (First Class) | All routes | Not permitted | No exceptions |
| Alternative payment | All routes | 215,000 Etihad Guest Miles | Equivalent to $1,500 USD in-cabin fee |
| Falcons (Cabin) | All routes | Free | Counted as cabin baggage allowance |
| Falcons (Checked cage) | All routes | $500 USD per cage | As checked baggage |
| Cargo (LiveAnimals) | All routes | Contact Etihad Cargo directly | Fee depends on route, weight, and crate dimensions; no published rate table |
| Service dogs | All routes | Free | With required documentation |
Fees listed are as published on official Etihad sources. Verify current amounts with Etihad before booking, as fees are subject to change.
Key Takeaway: The in-cabin pet fee is $1,500 USD one-way for all routes with no short-haul discount. Business Class passengers must also purchase an additional seat at the standard seat fare. Cargo fees are not published; contact Etihad Cargo directly for a quote.
Breed Restrictions: Full List by Name
Etihad maintains two separate categories of breed restrictions. Read both carefully.
Completely Banned Breeds (Cabin and Cargo, All Year)
The following breeds are refused at check-in with no exceptions:
Pit Bull-type breeds:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- American Bully
Mastiff-type breeds:
- Brazilian Mastiff (Fila Brasileiro)
- Argentinian Mastiff (Dogo Argentino)
- Any Mastiff or Mastiff hybrid
- Japanese Tosa or Tosa hybrid
Additional banned breeds:
- Rottweiler
- Doberman Pinscher
- Boxer
- Canario Presa
Mixed breeds: Any mixed breed or hybrid of the above is also banned.
Brachycephalic (Snub-Nosed) Breeds: Restricted, Not Fully Banned
Brachycephalic breeds are handled differently from the completely banned breeds above.
In cabin: Permitted if the combined pet and carrier weight does not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs). No seasonal restriction applies to cabin travel.
In cargo: Permitted November 1 to March 1 only. Additional documentation and approval from Etihad Cargo LiveAnimals specialists is required. Outside this window, brachycephalic breeds cannot travel in cargo.
Brachycephalic breeds affected by the cargo restriction include French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus, Persian cats, and Burmese cats. This list is not exhaustive. If your breed has a shortened muzzle, confirm eligibility directly with Etihad Cargo before booking.
Warning: Brachycephalic breeds traveling in cargo outside the November 1 to March 1 window will be refused. If your French Bulldog or Pug exceeds the 8 kg (17.6 lbs) cabin limit and you are traveling in summer, there is no Etihad option available. Plan accordingly.
Cargo Travel: Etihad Cargo LiveAnimals
Pets that exceed the 8 kg (17.6 lbs) cabin limit, or pets traveling on routes where cabin travel is not permitted, must travel via Etihad Cargo’s LiveAnimals service. This is a separate booking process from cabin pet travel.
Crate requirements (IATA standards):
- IATA-approved crates only
- Ventilated on all sides
- Secure locks and leak-proof flooring
- Space for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
- Food and water containers attached inside
Journey time: Etihad Cargo accepts pet routes with a total travel time of up to 24 hours from drop-off to pick-up.
Fees: No published rate table exists for cargo pet transport. Contact Etihad Cargo directly for a quote based on your route, pet weight, and crate dimensions.
Brachycephalic breeds in cargo: Permitted November 1 to March 1 only, with specialist approval. See the breed restrictions section above.
Temperature thresholds: Etihad Cargo references IATA standards but does not publish specific ground temperature limits in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit. Contact Etihad Cargo directly to confirm temperature conditions for your specific travel dates and route.
Booking: Contact Etihad Cargo directly. The cargo booking process is entirely separate from the cabin pet booking process at pets@etihad.ae.
Service Dogs: Documentation and Rules
Trained service dogs fly free on Etihad Airways. Dogs are the only species accepted as service animals.
Certification required: Service dogs must hold certification from Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF). The exception is direct flights to or from the United States, where ADI or IGDF certification is not required.
Documentation required for all service dog travel:
- ADI or IGDF certification or license (except direct U.S. flights)
- Digital ID kept with you during travel
Additional documentation required for U.S. routes:
- U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form (available at https://www.transportation.gov/serviceanimals)
- U.S. DOT Service Animal Relief Attestation Form (available at https://www.transportation.gov/serviceanimals)
- CDC Dog Import Form (select “International, any preclearance airport”)
Service dogs from countries with high rabies risk are not permitted to travel to the United States. Confirm your country’s rabies risk classification before booking.
Advance notice: Notify Etihad at least 48 hours before departure. Submit the Trained Service Dog on Board Booking Form, available at https://www.etihadhub.com/content/dam/eag/etihadairways/etihadhub/assets/policy/application-form-for-trained-service-dog-in-cabin.pdf
In-cabin rules:
- Must be harnessed or leashed at all times
- Must fit in the space at the passenger’s feet without intruding on cabin operations or other passengers
- Not permitted in exit rows
- Must be clean, well-behaved, and show no signs of aggression
Breed and weight restrictions: Service dogs are exempt from the breed ban and weight limit that apply to standard cabin pets. Etihad complies with the U.S. Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA).
Route restrictions for service dogs: Service dogs are not permitted in the cabin to Sydney (Australia), Beijing and Shanghai (China), Ahmedabad, Kozhikode, Jaipur, and Thiruvananthapuram (India), Bali (Indonesia), Male (Maldives), Johannesburg (South Africa), Taipei (Taiwan), Krabi (Thailand), and Hanoi (Vietnam). For Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), only trained service dogs under 8 kg (17.6 lbs) are permitted.
Tip: For U.S. routes, download the DOT Air Transportation Form and Relief Attestation Form from https://www.transportation.gov/serviceanimals before your trip. Complete them digitally. Gate agents verify these documents on-site.
Emotional Support Animals: No Longer Recognized
Etihad Airways does not recognize emotional support animals (ESAs), comfort animals, companionship animals, or service animals-in-training as service animals. This policy is consistent with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 2024 clarification under the Air Carrier Access Act, which limits airline service animal accommodations to trained dogs only. See https://www.transportation.gov/serviceanimals for the current DOT rule.
ESAs must travel as standard pets. This means the $1,500 USD in-cabin fee applies, the 8 kg (17.6 lbs) weight limit applies, and route restrictions apply. No ESA letter or documentation changes this status.
Required Documents and Destination-Specific Rules
Etihad requires all destination-specific import and export documentation to be emailed to pets@etihad.ae no later than 72 hours before departure. The airline explicitly disclaims liability for pets refused entry due to non-compliance with local regulations.
Standard documents (most routes):
- Health certificate issued by a veterinarian licensed in the country of origin
- Vaccination records including rabies
- Microchip documentation
UK arrivals (DEFRA requirements, not airline requirements):
Pet transport to and from the UK requires DEFRA-approved documentation and advance import notification to the UK Animal Reception Centre. For detailed requirements, see our uk dog travel guide. Specifically:
- DEFRA-approved pet passport or health certificate
- Rabies vaccination and titer test (at least 30 days old but within 12 months)
- ISO 11784/11785 microchip
- Pre-arrival import permit from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)
Note: Cabin pets are not permitted on Etihad flights to London or Manchester. UK-bound pets must travel via Etihad Cargo LiveAnimals.
Australia arrivals:
Australia maintains the strictest pet import requirements globally, requiring more than 180 days of advance preparation and an approved quarantine facility booking. For complete details, see our guide on bringing your dog to australia. Specifically:
- ISO 11784/11785 standard microchip, scannable at Australian airports
- Import permit from the Australian Department of Agriculture
- Pets must be imported at least 180 days after the rabies vaccination date
Note: Cabin pets are not permitted on Etihad flights to Melbourne or Sydney. Australia-bound pets must travel via Etihad Cargo LiveAnimals.
Start Australia’s 180-day preparation clock by scheduling the rabies vaccination and titer blood draw in the same week. Every delay adds weeks to your timeline and may push back your travel date.
Other destinations: Japan, New Zealand, and similar high-restriction destinations are not explicitly addressed on Etihad’s pet policy page. Contact Etihad directly and consult the destination country’s government import authority before booking.
Route Restrictions: Where Cabin Pets Cannot Fly
Cabin pet travel is not permitted on Etihad flights to or from the following destinations. Pets traveling to these locations must use Etihad Cargo LiveAnimals or cannot travel on Etihad at all.
No cabin pets permitted:
- United States: All U.S. destinations
- United Kingdom: London, Manchester
- Australia: Melbourne, Sydney
- China: Shanghai
- Hong Kong
- India: Ahmedabad, Kozhikode, Jaipur, Thiruvananthapuram
- Indonesia: Bali
- Maldives: Male
- South Africa: Johannesburg
- Taiwan: Taipei
- Thailand: Krabi
- Vietnam: Hanoi
Codeshare and partner flight restriction: Pets are not accepted on connecting flights operated by partner airlines. Every segment of your itinerary must be operated by Etihad Airways. Verify this before submitting your booking form.
Brachycephalic cargo restriction: Brachycephalic breeds in cargo are restricted to November 1 through March 1 only. This is a seasonal restriction, not a route restriction, but it affects all cargo routes during summer months.
Warning: All U.S. routes are closed to cabin pets. If you are flying from Abu Dhabi to New York, your pet must travel via Etihad Cargo LiveAnimals or not at all. Confirm cargo eligibility for your breed and travel dates before booking any U.S.-bound itinerary.
Airport Check-In: What to Expect
Arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure, not the standard 2 hours. Check in at the counter. Online check-in is not available for passengers traveling with pets.
Present the following at check-in:
- Flight booking confirmation
- Separate pet confirmation issued by Etihad
- All required destination documentation
- Travel carrier with pet inside
Crew will inspect the carrier at the gate for ventilation and escape-proof construction. Your pet must remain in the carrier for the entire duration of the flight. The carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you at all times during the flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Etihad charge to fly a pet in-cabin?
The in-cabin pet fee is $1,500 USD one-way for all routes. There is no reduced fee for short-haul or domestic flights. Business Class passengers must also purchase an additional seat at the standard seat fare on top of the $1,500 USD fee. Transiting passengers are charged $1,500 USD per flight segment. Alternatively, the fee can be paid with 215,000 Etihad Guest Miles. Verify the current fee with Etihad at the time of booking, as fees are subject to change.
What is the maximum pet carrier size for Etihad cabin travel?
The maximum carrier dimensions are 50 cm L x 43 cm W x 50 cm H (19.7 in x 16.9 in x 19.7 in). The carrier must also fit under the seat in front of you. Under-seat clearance varies by aircraft type. Confirm the specific aircraft on your route with Etihad before purchasing a carrier. The maximum combined weight of pet plus carrier is 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
Does Etihad allow snub-nosed dog breeds?
Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds are not banned from cabin travel, but they are restricted in cargo. In the cabin, they are permitted if the combined pet and carrier weight does not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs). In cargo, they are permitted only from November 1 to March 1 and require additional specialist approval. Affected breeds include French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus, Persian cats, and Burmese cats. Separately, Boxers are completely banned from both cabin and cargo travel on Etihad at all times of year.
Can I book an in-cabin pet online with Etihad?
No. In-cabin pet reservations cannot be made online. You must email the completed Live Animal in Cabin Information Form to pets@etihad.ae at least 7 days before departure. US and Canada customers can also call +1-844-503-2111. All supporting documents must be emailed to pets@etihad.ae no later than 72 hours before departure. Online check-in is also not available for passengers traveling with pets.
What documents does my pet need to fly Etihad?
At minimum, you need a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian and vaccination records including rabies. Additional requirements apply by destination. UK arrivals require a DEFRA-approved pet passport or health certificate, a rabies titer test, an ISO microchip, and a pre-arrival import permit from APHA. Australia arrivals require an ISO microchip, an import permit, and proof that travel occurs at least 180 days after the rabies vaccination date. All documents must be emailed to pets@etihad.ae no later than 72 hours before departure.
Does Etihad still accept emotional support animals?
No. Etihad does not recognize emotional support animals, comfort animals, companionship animals, or service animals-in-training as service animals. This is consistent with the U.S. DOT’s 2024 clarification under the Air Carrier Access Act. ESAs must travel as standard pets, subject to the $1,500 USD fee, the 8 kg (17.6 lbs) weight limit, and all route restrictions. Only trained service dogs with ADI or IGDF certification (or DOT forms for U.S. routes) are accommodated as service animals.
When does Etihad restrict pet travel due to temperature?
Etihad restricts brachycephalic breeds in cargo to November 1 through March 1 only due to respiratory risks associated with heat. Specific ground temperature thresholds are not published by Etihad. The airline references IATA live animal standards but does not disclose exact Celsius or Fahrenheit limits. For non-brachycephalic breeds in cargo, no specific temperature embargo dates are published. Contact Etihad Cargo directly to confirm conditions for your specific travel dates and route before booking.
Sources and Verification
- Etihad Airways official pet travel policy: https://www.etihad.com/en/plan/travel-companion/travelling-with-pets
- IATA live animals regulations: https://www.iata.org/en/youandcargo/live-animals/
- U.S. DOT service animal rules and forms: https://www.transportation.gov/serviceanimals
- Live Animal in Cabin Information Form: https://www.etihadhub.com/content/dam/eag/etihadairways/etihadhub/assets/policy/live-animal-in-cabin-information-form.pdf
- Trained Service Dog Booking Form: https://www.etihadhub.com/content/dam/eag/etihadairways/etihadhub/assets/policy/application-form-for-trained-service-dog-in-cabin.pdf
Fees and policies in this article reflect information available from official Etihad sources as of early 2025. For comparison with other Middle Eastern carriers, see our emirates pet policy guide. Verify all details directly with Etihad before booking.
This article is for informational purposes only. Airline pet policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Etihad Airways before booking.
