What Size Pet Carrier is Airline Approved? Ultimate Guide for US, UK, Europe & More.
Traveling with your furry companion can be a joy, but navigating airline regulations for pet carriers is essential to ensure a smooth journey. If you're wondering "what size pet carrier is airline approved," the answer varies by country and airline, but most follow IATA standards for safety and comfort.
In this guide, we'll break down the key requirements for the US, UK, Europe, Canada, and Australia, helping you choose the best option for your dog or other small pet.
At Amorina Pet Bags, our luxury carriers are designed to meet these guidelines while offering unparalleled elegance.
Airline Approved Pet Carrier Sizes in the US 🇺🇸 (TSA Guidelines)
The TSA focuses on security, but airlines set the size limits for in-cabin carriers.
Generally, soft-sided carriers must fit under the seat, with maximum dimensions of 18x11x11 inches (46x28x28 cm). For example:
- American Airlines: Soft-sided 18x11x11 inches for cabin.
- United: Hard-sided 17.5x12x7.5 inches, soft-sided 18x11x11 inches.
- Delta: Similar under-seat fit, up to 18x11x11 inches. Cargo crates follow IATA rules, where the pet must stand, turn, and lie down naturally.
Always check your airline, as pets over 20 lbs typically go in cargo.
Airline Approved Pet Carrier Sizes in the UK 🇬🇧 (CAA and Airlines)
The CAA adheres to IATA standards, emphasizing pet welfare. For cabin travel, carriers are usually soft-sided and must fit under the seat, around 18x11x11 inches (46x28x28 cm).
Key examples:
- British Airways: Cabin carriers up to 47x28x24 cm, but only for assistance animals; others in cargo.
- EasyJet/Virgin Atlantic: Similar under-seat sizes, soft-sided preferred. For cargo, IATA-compliant crates are required, with the pet able to move freely.
Verify with the airline, as UK regulations are strict on animal stress.
Airline Approved Pet Carrier Sizes in Europe 🇪🇺 (IATA Standards)
Europe largely follows IATA guidelines, which mandate carriers allowing pets to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Cabin sizes are typically 18x11x11 inches (46x28x28 cm) for soft-sided. Examples:
- Lufthansa (Germany): Cabin up to 55x40x23 cm, cargo IATA crates.
- Air France (France): Soft-sided 46x28x24 cm for cabin.
- Ryanair/Air Europa: No pets in cabin; cargo only with IATA crates sized for the pet. IATA recommends ventilation on all sides and secure locks.
Airline Approved Pet Carrier Sizes in Canada 🇨🇦
Air Canada follows IATA but updated policies in June 2025: Soft-sided only for cabin, up to 18x11x11 inches (46x28x28 cm). WestJet and other carriers align with similar limits. Cargo requires IATA crates where pets can move freely.
Always confirm, as Canada has strict import rules for pets.
Airline Approved Pet Carrier Sizes in Australia 🇦🇺
Australia’s biosecurity is rigorous; carriers must meet IATA standards for cargo (no cabin pets on most flights). Qantas allows IATA-compliant crates sized to the pet’s dimensions (e.g., length = pet length + half leg height). Ventilation and strength are key; quarantine upon arrival is mandatory.
Tips for Choosing the Best Airline Approved Pet Carrier
- Measure your pet: Length (nose to tail base) + height (ground to shoulder). Add 3-5 inches for comfort.
- Soft-sided for cabin (under-seat fit); hard-sided for cargo (IATA compliant).
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Materials: Breathable mesh, durable fabrics like Cordura for longevity.
For seamless pet travel, explore Amorina Pet Bags innovative carriers, crafted with European elegance for ultimate comfort. Shop now and embark on worry-free adventures!
- The Amorina Team
