Traveling internationally with a pet requires precision, documentation, and airline-specific knowledge. Thai Airways is a major global carrier with strict, safety-driven rules for animal transport. This guide delivers a Wondering Can you bring a pet on Thai Airways? This updated policy guide breaks down the latest rules, pet travel prices, in-cabin and cargo options, carrier requirements, required health and vaccination documents, and international shipping procedures — so you’re fully prepared to travel stress-free with your pet.
For official confirmations or route-specific guidance, travelers often consult Thai Airways support at +1-877-593-4887.
Quick Overview: Flying With Pets on Thai Airways
Thai Airways does not generally allow pets in the cabin (except trained service dogs).
Most pets travel via Thai Airways Cargo under regulated conditions.
Advance booking and government-approved documentation are mandatory.
Costs vary by weight, route, and aircraft type—not flat fees.
Certain breeds and snub-nosed animals face restrictions.
International regulations override personal preference every time. For fast clarification, Thai Airways representatives are reachable at +1-877-593-4887.
Understanding the Thai Airways Pet Policy (Core Rules Explained)
The Thai Airways Pet Policy is built around international aviation safety, animal welfare, and import/export law compliance. Unlike some regional airlines, Thai Airways treats pet transport as a specialized cargo operation, not an onboard amenity.
Pets are accepted only when:
The destination country legally permits animal import
Aircraft type supports live animal cargo
Seasonal temperature thresholds are met
All veterinary and customs documentation is approved
Because rules change by route and country, travelers are advised to reconfirm requirements directly with Thai Airways at +1-877-593-4887 before finalizing tickets.
Are Pets Allowed in the Cabin on Thai Airways?
Cabin Travel Rules (What Most Travelers Need to Know)
Thai Airways maintains strict Thai Airways pet in cabin rules, meaning:
Pets are NOT permitted in the passenger cabin
Emotional support animals are not accepted
Only certified service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities may travel in-cabin
Service dogs must be trained, documented, and pre-approved
This policy aligns with evolving global safety standards and minimizes onboard risk. For service animal approval procedures, contact +1-877-593-4887 well in advance of departure.
Which Pets Are Eligible to Fly on Thai Airways?
Accepted Animals
Thai Airways generally accepts:
Dogs
Cats
Certain small household animals (route-dependent)
Breed & Health Restrictions
Pets may be refused if they:
Are snub-nosed (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats)
Are pregnant or under 8 weeks old
Have respiratory or heart conditions
Are listed as aggressive breeds in destination countries
Eligibility is evaluated case by case. Always reconfirm acceptance criteria with Thai Airways Cargo via +1-877-593-4887.
How Pets Travel: Cargo Transport Explained
Thai Airways Cargo Operations
Pets fly in the aircraft hold, not as checked baggage, under IATA Live Animals Regulations. Thai Airways ensures:
Temperature-controlled compartments
Pressurized cargo holds
Trained animal-handling staff
The airline’s Thai Airways pet cargo requirements include:
IATA-approved hard-shell kennels
Absorbent bedding
Proper ventilation on all sides
Secure locking mechanisms
Cargo reservations are mandatory and limited per flight. Early coordination with Thai Airways Cargo at +1-877-593-4887 is essential.
Booking Process: Step-by-Step Guide
How to Book Pet Travel on Thai Airways
Confirm destination import laws
Book your own passenger ticket
Contact Thai Airways Cargo to request pet space
Submit pet details (breed, size, weight)
Receive cargo confirmation
Prepare veterinary and customs documents
Arrive early on departure day
Pet travel cannot be booked online. All reservations must be coordinated offline through Thai Airways support at +1-877-593-4887.
Documents Required for Pet Travel
Most international routes require:
Veterinary health certificate (within 7–10 days)
Rabies vaccination record
Microchip documentation
Import permit (destination country)
Export permit (country of origin)
Documentation errors are the cause of pet travel denial. Thai Airways strongly recommends document verification by calling +1-877-593-4887 before departure.
How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Pet on Thai Airways?
Pricing Structure (Not Flat Fees)
The Cost to fly a pet on Thai Airways depends on:
Total weight (pet + crate)
Route distance
Aircraft type
Seasonal demand
Destination regulations
Charges are calculated using cargo rate formulas, not passenger baggage fees. Because pricing fluctuates, travelers should request a live quote from Thai Airways Cargo via +1-877-593-4887.
Comparison Table: Thai Airways vs Other Major Airlines
When comparing major international airlines, Thai Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines follow broadly similar pet transportation standards, particularly for long-haul international flights.
Pets in the cabin are not permitted on any of these airlines, with all four allowing only trained service dogs under strict regulatory approval. Pets as checked baggage are also not accepted across all four carriers, reflecting tighter global safety and liability regulations.
All airlines—including Thai Airways—transport pets exclusively via dedicated cargo services, using pressurized and temperature-controlled holds that comply with IATA Live Animals Regulations. This approach prioritizes animal safety on long-distance routes.
In terms of breed restrictions, Thai Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines enforce strict limitations on snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds, while Qatar Airways applies moderate restrictions, sometimes allowing certain breeds depending on route, season, and aircraft type.
Regarding pricing, none of the airlines offer flat pet fees. Instead, all calculate charges using cargo rate models, which factor in total weight, crate size, destination, and seasonal demand.
Finally, international route coverage is extensive across all four carriers, making each a viable option for global pet relocation—provided travelers meet documentation, health, and destination import requirements.
Best-Practice Guidelines for Stress-Free Pet Travel
Traveler Guidelines
Book cargo space at least 2–4 weeks early
Avoid peak summer heat periods
Use airline-approved kennels only
Label crates clearly with contact info
Never sedate pets unless prescribed
Choose nonstop routes when possible
Thai Airways support teams can review your plan and reduce risk—call +1-877-593-4887 before finalizing arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Thai Airways allow pets in the cabin?
Thai Airways does not permit pets in the cabin, except for fully trained service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities. Emotional support animals and comfort pets are not accepted. All other animals must travel via Thai Airways Cargo under international live animal transport regulations.
2. What are the weight and size limits for pets on Thai Airways?
There is no single weight limit. Acceptance depends on total weight (pet plus crate), aircraft type, and cargo hold capacity. Oversized crates may be restricted. Thai Airways Cargo evaluates each case individually before approval.
3. How much does it cost to fly a pet on Thai Airways?
Pet travel costs are calculated using cargo rates, not baggage fees. Pricing depends on route, weight, crate dimensions, and seasonal demand. Travelers must request a personalized quote directly from Thai Airways Cargo.
4. What documents are required to travel with a pet on Thai Airways?
Most routes require a veterinary health certificate, rabies vaccination proof, microchip records, and import/export permits. Some destinations impose quarantine or additional testing requirements, which must be completed before travel.
5. Does Thai Airways transport pets as cargo on international flights?
Yes. Thai Airways transports pets exclusively through its cargo division on international flights. Animals travel in pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo holds that comply with IATA Live Animals Regulations.
6. Are emotional support animals allowed on Thai Airways?
No. Thai Airways does not recognize emotional support animals. Only trained service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities may travel in the cabin, subject to strict documentation and advance approval.
7. What pet carrier requirements does Thai Airways have?
Carriers must meet IATA standards: rigid structure, secure locking, proper ventilation, leak-proof flooring, and sufficient space for the pet to stand and turn. Soft-sided carriers are not accepted for cargo travel.
8. How do I book a pet reservation with Thai Airways?
Pet travel cannot be booked online. Passengers must contact Thai Airways Cargo after booking their own flight. Cargo space is limited and must be confirmed separately before travel.
9. Are there breed restrictions for pets traveling on Thai Airways?
Yes. Snub-nosed breeds and animals with respiratory issues may be restricted or refused due to safety concerns. Breed acceptance depends on route, temperature, and aircraft type.
10. How early should I arrive at the airport when flying with a pet on Thai Airways?
Passengers should arrive at least 4 hours before departure. Cargo processing, document checks, and veterinary inspections require additional time compared to standard passenger check-in.
Conclusion: Is Thai Airways a Good Choice for Pet Travel?
Thai Airways offers safe, regulation-compliant pet transport through its cargo operations, making it a viable option for international pet relocation when planned correctly. While cabin travel is not available, the airline’s structured approach prioritizes animal welfare and legal compliance.
The Thai Airways Pet Policy favors preparation over convenience—but for informed travelers, it delivers reliability. Before booking, always reconfirm route-specific rules, pricing, and documentation requirements directly with Thai Airways at +1-877-593-4887 to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your pet.