Virgin Australia to Introduce Australia's First Pets-In-Cabin Flights
In an exciting development for pet lovers across the nation, Virgin Australia has announced its groundbreaking plan to become the first Australian airline to allow pets in the cabin on flights. This innovative move, still awaiting regulatory nod, is slated for launch within the next year and is set to revolutionize the way Australians travel with their furry friends.
Following a significant endorsement from a 2021 social media poll where 85% of Virgin Australia's Facebook followers supported the initiative, and further research indicating that 70% of respondents would prefer to travel with their pets in the cabin, Virgin Australia is making strides towards accommodating pets onboard. A noteworthy 57% of those surveyed also expressed that the option to fly with pets would encourage them to travel more frequently.
To ensure a smooth and safe journey for all, Virgin Australia has set specific guidelines for passengers intending to travel with their pets. Initially, this service will be available only for small cats and dogs on selected domestic routes. The airline will designate certain rows for travelers with pets, prohibiting pets from wandering around or sitting on passengers' laps during the flight. Importantly, all pets must be kept in a Virgin Australia-approved pet carrier placed under the seat in front of the owner throughout the flight.
Lorie Argus, CEO of Melbourne Airport, also expressed support for this venture, noting the airport's readiness with relief areas for assistance animals that could accommodate Virgin Australia's new four-legged passengers. She emphasized that pets would need to remain in their carriers while within the airport terminal, expecting the pets-in-cabin concept to be well-received.
Virgin Australia reassures that the introduction of pets in the cabin will not affect the current provisions for approved assistance animals, which will continue to travel in the cabin at no extra charge. The procedure for assessing these animals' eligibility for cabin travel will remain unchanged. Additionally, the option to transport pets as cargo through approved carriers will still be available, underscoring the airline's comprehensive approach to pet travel.