Malaysia Airlines operates one of the most restrictive pet travel policies among major Asian carriers. All regular pets travel exclusively as cargo through the airline’s MABkargo division. No pets, regardless of size or species, are permitted in the passenger cabin. Service dogs are the sole exception to this rule.
Pet owners planning to fly with Malaysia Airlines need to understand three things before booking: cargo is the only option for regular pets, all bookings require a phone call rather than online reservation, and pets entering Malaysia must obtain an import permit from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) at least 2 to 4 weeks before travel.
This guide is based on Malaysia Airlines’ official Conditions of Carriage and verified secondary sources. Always confirm current requirements directly with Malaysia Airlines before booking, as policies change without notice.
Official pet policy reference: Malaysia Airlines Conditions of Carriage, Article 9.11
Quick Reference Table
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cabin pets permitted | No. All pets prohibited in cabin. |
| Cabin weight limit | Not applicable. |
| Cargo weight limit | Not published. Contact Malaysia Airlines for your pet’s specifics. |
| Cargo crate requirement | IATA-compliant crate. Must allow pet to stand, turn around, and lie down. |
| IATA crate size (small dog/cat) | Approximately 50 x 40 x 40 cm (20 x 16 x 16 in). Confirm with airline. |
| IATA crate size (medium dog) | Approximately 70 x 50 x 50 cm (28 x 20 x 20 in). Confirm with airline. |
| IATA crate size (large dog) | Approximately 90 x 70 x 70 cm (35 x 28 x 28 in). Confirm with airline. |
| Domestic Malaysia cargo fee | Not published. Call +603 877 71610 for a quote. |
| International long-haul cargo fee | $2,500 to $5,500+ USD (full service, including crate and handling). Airline-only fee not published separately. |
| Service dog fee | Free. In-cabin. Advance phone booking required. |
| Booking method | Phone only. Online pet booking is not available. |
| Cargo booking phone | +603 877 71610 (MABkargo) |
| General reservations phone | 1300883000 |
| Breed restrictions | No official list published. Brachycephalic breeds face stricter temperature limits. Call to confirm. |
| Cargo check-in timing | 6 to 7 hours before departure at MABkargo Animal Hotel. |
| Service dog advance notice | Minimum 48 hours. 15 days if dog is 6 to 12 months old and traveling to the US. |
| Malaysia import permit | Required from DVS. Allow 2 to 4 weeks processing. Fee: RM 5 per head (approximately USD $1.10). |
| Malaysia quarantine | Minimum 7 days upon arrival. Up to 6 months if extended. |
Pro tip: Request a written quote by email when you call MABkargo at +603 877 71610. Verbal quotes are standard, but a written record protects you if pricing changes between booking and travel.
In-Cabin Pet Policy: Not Permitted
Malaysia Airlines’ official Conditions of Carriage, Article 9.11, states explicitly that animals must be carried in the cargo compartment and are not allowed in the passenger cabin. This applies to all routes, all cabin classes, and all species.
No small dogs, cats, birds, or any other animals travel under seats or in overhead bins on Malaysia Airlines flights. This policy is confirmed by the airline’s official documentation and multiple independent sources including PetTravel.com and BringFido.
Key Takeaway: Malaysia Airlines prohibits all non-service pets from the passenger cabin on every route it operates. Cargo is the only option for regular pets. Any source claiming Malaysia Airlines offers in-cabin pet service contradicts the airline’s official Conditions of Carriage and should not be relied upon.
Cargo Travel: The Only Option for Regular Pets
Malaysia Airlines handles all regular pet transport through MABkargo, the airline’s dedicated cargo division. This is not a checked baggage service. Pets travel as manifest cargo, not alongside passenger luggage.
IATA Crate Requirements
All crates must conform to IATA Live Animals Regulations, the international standard for animal transport by air. The IATA Live Animals Regulations define minimum crate standards that Malaysia Airlines applies to all cargo pets.
Your crate must meet all of the following requirements:
- Allow your pet to stand upright without touching the top of the crate
- Allow your pet to turn around completely
- Allow your pet to lie down in a natural position
- Be labeled with “LIVE ANIMAL” stickers on all sides
- Include a Shipping Declaration with feeding and watering instructions
- Be structurally sound and escape-proof
Malaysia Airlines does not publish specific crate dimension requirements. The following IATA standard sizes apply as a general guide, but you must confirm exact sizing with Malaysia Airlines before purchasing a crate:
| Pet Size | Approximate Crate Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Small dog or cat | 50 x 40 x 40 cm (20 x 16 x 16 in) |
| Medium dog | 70 x 50 x 50 cm (28 x 20 x 20 in) |
| Large dog | 90 x 70 x 70 cm (35 x 28 x 28 in) |
Call +603 877 71610 to confirm the correct crate size for your specific animal before purchasing.
Weight Limits
Malaysia Airlines does not publish maximum weight limits for cargo pets. Contact MABkargo at +603 877 71610 for weight-specific guidance for your animal.
Temperature Restrictions
Malaysia Airlines does not publish a specific temperature embargo policy. Industry-standard thresholds apply as a baseline reference:
| Condition | Standard Breeds | Brachycephalic Breeds |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum ground temperature | 85°F (29.4°C) | 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C) |
| Minimum ground temperature | 45°F (7.2°C) | 45°F (7.2°C) with acclimation certificate |
| Below 20°F (-6.7°C) | Transport not permitted | Transport not permitted |
| Typical embargo season | May through September | May through September, with stricter limits |
Verify current temperature embargo status with MABkargo at +603 877 71610 before booking, particularly for May through September travel.
Warning: Brachycephalic breeds face a lower maximum temperature threshold of 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C) compared to 85°F (29.4°C) for other breeds. Flights during warmer months may be refused at check-in if ground temperatures exceed these limits. Confirm embargo status before booking any summer travel.
Layover Handling
If your pet’s itinerary includes a layover of 3 hours or less, the animal remains in the aircraft. Layovers exceeding 3 hours require transfer between aircraft. Confirm layover handling with MABkargo when booking.
Service Dogs: The Only In-Cabin Exception
Malaysia Airlines permits trained service dogs to travel in the passenger cabin at no charge. This is the only circumstance under which any animal travels in the cabin on Malaysia Airlines flights.
Malaysia Airlines defines a service dog as one trained by a person or organization specializing in service dog training to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability. This definition aligns with the US Department of Transportation Air Carrier Access Act standard. For the DOT’s full service animal definition, see transportation.gov/serviceanimals.
Species Accepted
Dogs only. No other species qualify as service animals under Malaysia Airlines’ policy.
Documentation Required
All service dog passengers must provide the following at check-in:
- Certificate proving the dog has undergone qualified service training
- Health certificate from a licensed veterinarian
- Proof of current vaccinations
- Service dog identification (harness, jacket, or vest)
Additional requirements for US-bound flights:
- CDC Dog Import Form (complete at cdc.gov/importation/dogs.html)
- ISO-standard microchip
- Dog must be at least 6 months old
- If dog is 6 to 12 months old: CDC form must be submitted 15 days before departure
Additional requirements for UAE-bound flights:
- UAE Ministry documentation
- Health certificate
- Vaccination records
- Minimum 96 hours (4 working days) advance notice to Malaysia Airlines
Advance Notice Requirements
| Route | Advance Notice Required |
|---|---|
| All routes (standard) | Minimum 48 hours before departure |
| US-bound (dog aged 6 to 12 months) | 15 days before departure |
| UAE-bound | 96 hours (4 working days) before departure |
In-Cabin Rules for Service Dogs
- Must fit in the space at the passenger’s feet without intruding on cabin operations
- Not permitted in exit rows
- Must be harnessed and leashed at all times
- Must be clean and show no signs of aggression toward passengers or crew
Fee
Free. No charge for service dogs on any Malaysia Airlines route.
Booking
Phone only. Call 1300883000 at least 48 hours before departure. Online booking is not available for service dogs.
Key Takeaway: Service dogs are the only animals permitted in the Malaysia Airlines cabin. They travel free with advance phone booking and proper documentation. All other animals, including emotional support animals, travel as cargo only.
Emotional Support Animals: No Special Status
Malaysia Airlines does not recognize emotional support animals as a separate category in its Conditions of Carriage. ESAs receive no cabin access and no documentation exemptions.
Since all non-service animals are prohibited from the cabin, ESAs must travel as cargo pets and meet all standard cargo requirements including IATA-compliant crates, health certificates, and applicable import permits.
The US Department of Transportation’s Air Carrier Access Act no longer requires airlines to accommodate ESAs as service animals. Malaysia Airlines’ policy reflects this position. ESA letters do not grant any special status on Malaysia Airlines flights.
Breed Restrictions
Malaysia Airlines does not publish an official breed restriction list. Based on available research, the following applies:
Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds face stricter cargo temperature limits of 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C) maximum, compared to 85°F (29.4°C) for other breeds. Breeds commonly subject to restrictions at airlines that enforce brachycephalic policies include:
Dogs: French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, Pekingese, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Boxer, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dogue de Bordeaux
Cats: Persian, Himalayan, British Shorthair, Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, Scottish Fold
Because Malaysia Airlines has not published a confirmed breed list, you must call +603 877 71610 to verify whether your specific breed is accepted before booking. Do not assume acceptance based on the list above.
If your pet is a brachycephalic breed, ask your veterinarian to complete a Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) assessment before booking. Animals with confirmed BOAS should not travel in cargo.
Malaysia Airlines has not published a dangerous or aggressive breed restriction list. Call +603 877 71610 to confirm acceptance of any breed before booking.
Warning: All breed restrictions apply to cargo transport only. There is no cabin option for any breed of regular pet on Malaysia Airlines.
Required Documents and Health Certificates
Standard Cargo Pet Documents
| Document | Requirement | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Health certificate | Issued by a competent veterinary officer. Must certify pet is healthy, free from rabies clinical signs, and free from infectious or contagious diseases. | Issued within 7 days of flight. |
| Rabies vaccination proof | Approved anti-rabies vaccine. Must be documented in health certificate. | Prior to export from origin country. |
| IATA-compliant crate | Must meet all IATA Live Animals Regulations standards. | Ready before cargo check-in. |
| Shipping declaration | Includes feeding and watering instructions. | Submitted at cargo drop-off. |
| “LIVE ANIMAL” labels | Affixed to all sides of crate. | Applied before cargo check-in. |
Malaysia Import Documents
Pets entering Malaysia require the following documents from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS):
| Document | Issuing Authority | Fee | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import License | Director General of Veterinary Services Malaysia | RM 5 per head (approximately USD $1.10) | Apply at least 2 to 4 weeks before travel. |
| Quarantine (mandatory upon arrival) | Department of Veterinary Services | RM 3 to 4 per day (approximately USD $0.65 to $0.85 per day) | Minimum 7 days. Up to 6 months if extended. |
| Quarantine Certificate | Department of Veterinary Services | RM 2 per head (approximately USD $0.43) | Issued after quarantine completion. |
Malaysia requires pets entering the country to obtain an import permit from the Department of Veterinary Services at least 2 weeks before travel. Processing can take 2 to 4 weeks, so begin this process immediately after booking your flight.
Pro tip: Start the DVS import permit application the same day you book your flight. The 2 to 4 week processing window is a hard deadline, and missing it means your pet cannot enter Malaysia legally. The quarantine clock starts on arrival regardless of when you apply.
US-Bound Service Dog Additional Documents
- CDC Dog Import Form (submit at cdc.gov/importation/dogs.html)
- ISO-standard microchip
- Dog must be at least 6 months old
Fees Breakdown
Malaysia Airlines does not publish pet cargo fees on its website. The figures below are aggregated from relocation and cargo service providers and represent total costs including airline fees, crate, and handling. The airline-only fee component is not published separately. Call +603 877 71610 for a direct quote.
Cargo Fees (International Long-Haul)
| Route Type | Pet Size | Total Cost (USD) | What Is Included | Payment Timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International long-haul | Cat or small dog | $2,500 to $3,200 | Airline cargo fee, crate, handling | At booking |
| International long-haul | Medium dog | $3,200 to $4,400 | Airline cargo fee, crate, handling | At booking |
| International long-haul | Large dog | $4,500 to $5,500+ | Airline cargo fee, crate, handling | At booking |
| Domestic Malaysia | Any size | Not published | Contact Malaysia Airlines for current pricing | At booking |
| Service dog (all routes) | Any | Free | In-cabin, no charge | Not applicable |
Verify all fees with Malaysia Airlines at +603 877 71610 before booking. Fees change periodically and the figures above reflect aggregated estimates, not airline-published rates.
Malaysia Government Fees (In Addition to Airline Fees)
| Fee | Authority | Amount | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import License | DVS Malaysia | RM 5 per head | Approximately USD $1.10 |
| Quarantine (per day, 7-day minimum) | DVS Malaysia | RM 3 to 4 per day | Approximately USD $0.65 to $0.85 per day |
| Quarantine Certificate | DVS Malaysia | RM 2 per head | Approximately USD $0.43 |
A 7-day quarantine at RM 3 to 4 per day totals approximately RM 21 to 28 (approximately USD $4.55 to $6.10) at minimum, before the quarantine certificate fee.
Tip: A $500 base airfare can become $3,000 or more once cargo fees, crate purchase, documentation, and quarantine costs are added. Budget for the full cost of pet transport before booking, not just the airline ticket.
Booking Process
For Cargo Pets (All Regular Pets)
As of early 2026, Malaysia Airlines requires advance phone booking for all pet travel arrangements. Online booking systems do not support pet reservations.
- Gather all required documents. Obtain your pet’s health certificate (within 7 days of travel), rabies vaccination proof, and Malaysia DVS import permit (allow 2 to 4 weeks processing). Do not wait until close to your travel date.
- Purchase an IATA-compliant crate. Confirm the correct size for your animal by calling +603 877 71610 before purchasing. Affix “LIVE ANIMAL” labels to all sides.
- Call MABkargo to request a quote and reservation. Phone: +603 877 71610. Cargo bookings require coordination with a licensed agent. Ask for a written quote by email if possible.
- Confirm your booking by phone. No online confirmation system is available. Keep a record of your booking reference and the name of the agent you spoke with.
- Prepare your Shipping Declaration. This document must include feeding and watering instructions for your pet and is submitted at cargo drop-off.
- Arrive at the MABkargo Animal Hotel 6 to 7 hours before departure. Late arrival risks missing your flight. The MABkargo Animal Hotel is located at the airport terminal.
- Present all documents to cargo staff. Staff will inspect your crate for IATA compliance, review your health certificate and import permits, and complete a Shipping Declaration review.
- Receive your cargo tag and booking reference. Keep this documentation for customs clearance at your destination.
- Arrange post-arrival customs clearance and quarantine separately. Malaysia Airlines does not coordinate post-arrival quarantine. Contact the DVS directly to arrange quarantine at the prescribed landing place at KLIA.
For Service Dogs (In-Cabin)
- Gather all required documentation. Service dog training certificate, health certificate, vaccination proof, and service dog identification (harness, jacket, or vest). For US-bound flights: CDC Dog Import Form, ISO microchip proof, and age documentation.
- Call Malaysia Airlines reservations at least 48 hours before departure. Phone: 1300883000. For US-bound flights with a dog aged 6 to 12 months, call at least 15 days before departure. For UAE-bound flights, call at least 96 hours (4 working days) before departure.
- Confirm in-cabin space reservation by phone. Request confirmation of your service dog’s acceptance on your specific flight.
- Arrive at standard passenger check-in 2 to 3 hours before departure. Present all documentation at the check-in desk.
- Pass ground staff inspection. Staff will verify documentation and assess that the dog is clean, harnessed, and shows no signs of aggression.
- Board with your service dog on harness and leash. Service dogs board with their handler. The dog must fit at your feet without intruding on cabin operations. Exit rows are not permitted.
Tip: Call the MABkargo line at +603 877 71610 during Malaysia business hours (8am to 5pm MYT, Monday through Friday) for faster response times. Have your pet’s breed, weight, and travel dates ready before calling to receive an accurate quote in a single call.
Route-Specific Restrictions
Destinations Where Pets Cannot Travel as Malaysia Airlines Checked Baggage
The following destinations require pet transport through an alternate cargo company rather than directly through Malaysia Airlines. Contact +603 877 71610 to confirm the correct cargo provider for your route:
- Australia
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom (including London)
- Hong Kong
- Bandar Seri Begawan
Routes Where No Live Animals Are Permitted
Malaysia Airlines does not transport live animals on flights departing from China. If your itinerary originates in China, you must arrange an alternate routing or carrier.
Cabin Restrictions
Cabin pets are prohibited on all Malaysia Airlines routes without exception. This applies to domestic Malaysia flights, regional routes, and all international long-haul flights.
Codeshare Flights
Malaysia Airlines’ Conditions of Carriage state that where there is any difference between Malaysia Airlines’ conditions and those of the operating carrier, the operating carrier’s conditions prevail. If your flight is operated by a codeshare partner, verify the operating carrier’s pet policy directly before booking. Do not assume Malaysia Airlines’ cargo pet policy applies to codeshare-operated flights.
Malaysia Arrival Quarantine
All pets entering Malaysia are subject to a mandatory minimum 7-day quarantine upon arrival. Quarantine can be extended to 6 months based on risk assessment by the DVS. Quarantine takes place at the prescribed landing place, typically KLIA. Arrange quarantine coordination directly with the DVS before travel.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I bring my pet in the cabin on Malaysia Airlines?
No. Malaysia Airlines prohibits all regular pets from the passenger cabin on every route it operates. This is stated explicitly in the airline’s official Conditions of Carriage, Article 9.11. Service dogs are the only exception and require advance phone booking at least 48 hours before departure. All other pets travel as cargo through MABkargo only.
How much does Malaysia Airlines charge for pet travel?
Malaysia Airlines does not publish pet cargo fees on its website. Aggregated estimates from cargo and relocation providers show total costs (including airline fees, crate, and handling) of approximately $2,500 to $3,200 USD for a cat or small dog on international long-haul routes, $3,200 to $4,400 USD for a medium dog, and $4,500 to $5,500+ USD for a large dog. Domestic Malaysia cargo fees are not published. Call +603 877 71610 for a direct quote before booking. Fees change periodically.
What are the carrier size limits for Malaysia Airlines?
Malaysia Airlines does not publish specific crate dimension requirements. IATA standard sizes used as a general guide are approximately 50 x 40 x 40 cm (20 x 16 x 16 in) for small dogs and cats, 70 x 50 x 50 cm (28 x 20 x 20 in) for medium dogs, and 90 x 70 x 70 cm (35 x 28 x 28 in) for large dogs. All crates must allow your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Confirm the correct size for your specific animal with Malaysia Airlines at +603 877 71610 before purchasing a crate.
Does Malaysia Airlines allow service dogs?
Yes. Malaysia Airlines permits certified service dogs to travel in the passenger cabin at no charge. Dogs only. Required documentation includes a service dog training certificate, health certificate, vaccination proof, and service dog identification such as a harness or vest. Advance phone booking is required at least 48 hours before departure by calling 1300883000. For US-bound flights with a dog aged 6 to 12 months, 15 days advance notice is required along with a CDC Dog Import Form and ISO microchip.
What documents do I need to fly my pet to Malaysia?
Pets entering Malaysia require an import permit from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), a health certificate issued within 7 days of travel by a competent veterinary officer, and proof of rabies vaccination. The DVS import permit costs RM 5 per head (approximately USD $1.10) and requires 2 to 4 weeks processing time. Upon arrival, all pets undergo a mandatory minimum 7-day quarantine at a cost of RM 3 to 4 per day (approximately USD $0.65 to $0.85 per day). Begin the import permit application immediately after booking your flight.
Are brachycephalic breeds restricted on Malaysia Airlines?
Malaysia Airlines has not published an official brachycephalic breed restriction list. However, snub-nosed breeds face stricter cargo temperature limits of 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C) maximum, compared to 85°F (29.4°C) for other breeds. Breeds commonly subject to restrictions at airlines that enforce brachycephalic policies include, for dogs: French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, Pekingese, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Boxer, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Dogue de Bordeaux. For cats: Persian, Himalayan, British Shorthair, Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, and Scottish Fold. Call +603 877 71610 to confirm whether your specific breed is accepted before booking. Ask your veterinarian to complete a BOAS assessment before any cargo travel.
Can I book pet travel online with Malaysia Airlines?
No. As of early 2026, Malaysia Airlines does not offer online pet booking. All pet travel arrangements require a phone reservation. For cargo pets, call MABkargo at +603 877 71610. For service dog bookings, call the general reservations line at 1300883000. Cargo bookings also require coordination with a licensed agent. Do not attempt to add a pet through the online booking system, as this option does not exist.
This article is for informational purposes only. Malaysia Airlines pet policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Malaysia Airlines before booking. Contact MABkargo at +603 877 71610 or the general reservations line at 1300883000 for the most current information.
Sources consulted: Malaysia Airlines General Conditions of Carriage (Article 9.11), IATA Live Animals Regulations (iata.org), US Department of Transportation service animal guidelines (transportation.gov/serviceanimals), Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia import requirements. Last verified: February 2026.
