Cagliari Airport Opens Pet Zone for Travellers with Animals
A dedicated pet area has been introduced at Cagliari Airport in the arrivals zone near the Schengen exits. It is set up for dogs, cats and people travelling with them, giving animals a place to calm down after flights or before leaving the airport. The facility opened on 23 January 2026 and is among the first of its kind at an Italian airport, and currently the only one in Sardinia with trained staff on duty.
The initiative is run by Bau Club ETS, an Italian organisation focused on animal welfare. The new area includes supervised spaces where pets can move freely, drink, rest or wait calmly away from crowded halls. Cagliari Airport highlights that this project responds to rising demand from people travelling with animals and adds a service previously missing at many Italian airports handling domestic and international connections.
Pet Area Features
- Play area for dogs and cats
- Rest and cooling spots with drinking fountains
- Toilet facilities for pets
- Grooming service
- Free access for animals belonging to PRM travellers
The airport states that PRM travellers with assistance needs will not pay to use the facility. Other visitors may purchase grooming or basic items, with proceeds supporting Bau Club ETS in activities such as animal rescue and adoption.
For travellers heading into Cagliari or continuing across Sardinia, the new space can smooth transfers with pets before entering taxis, buses or rental cars. The airport connects to coastal areas like Poetto Beach, the old town of Castello, and archaeological sites such as Nora. For longer journeys, Sardinia’s rail and ferry links open routes to Oristano, Iglesias and the popular northern resorts near Olbia and La Maddalena.
The opening signals a broader shift towards airports recognising pets as part of everyday travel rather than exceptions. For people moving across Italy or returning from the islands, knowing there is a calm space for animals during airport formalities can reduce stress and improve planning. More people now fly with their pets, so Cagliari’s idea might push other airports to add proper spaces and treat animals as part of everyday travel.
