What are the requirements for pet travel?
Only dogs and cats are allowed, and only two pets per person will be admitted. Also, pet travel is only offered on domestic routes within Australia and New Zealand. For other types of animals, additional animals, or international travel, contact Virgin Australia Air Cargo.
Can pets travel in the passenger cabin?
Only authorized guide or hearing assistance dogs can travel in the passenger cabin. All other pets travel in the cargo hold.
Does my pet qualify for travel as checked baggage?
To travel on Virgin Australia, your pet must:
- Appear to be in good health.
- Not be unduly aggressive.
- Be over 8 weeks old. This is due to possible dehydration while travelling. For dogs or cats under 12 weeks old, Virgin Blue recommends you obtain a veterinary certificate, as some breeds are more susceptible to dehydration.
- Be housed in a container which complies with the Virgin Australia pet cage requirements.
You can take up to two kennels per passenger, with up to three pets per cage. If there is more than one dog or cat in the cage, they must be:
- All from the same litter.
- Under 6 months old.
- Less than 14 kg each.
What are the fees associated with pet transport?
- Check the Virgin Australia website in the Planning/Specific Needs and Assistance/Pets/Fees and Charges section for accurate current fees
What are the kennel requirements?
The container must be:
- Supplied by passenger or purchased from Toll Air Express (within Australia).
- In good repair so that the dog or cat cannot escape from it.
- Not too small for the dog or cat.
- Lined with absorbent material.
- Strong enough to withstand damage (cannot be chewed through).
- Made of metal or a polypropylene material and must not have any wheels attached.
- If two part rigid plastic containers, the top and bottom or side parts must be secured by screws or nut and bolt.
- Must have escape-proof hinges and latches, and be adequately locked.
- Animal and container combined must not exceed 65 kg for Australian Domestic or New Zealand Domestic flights.
- Must not exceed 120 cm x 70 cm x 80 cm. Must not be collapsible.
What health documentation is required?
As it is the passenger's responsibility to be aware of all regulations, you should consult your veterinarian to ensure that your animal will comply with all requirements. Contact Virgin Blue for more information.
Some animals are restricted from traveling between states and countries. For more information on interstate and international quarantine restrictions, visit the AQIS website.
Are there any other restrictions?
Virgin Australia can refuse to transport an animal due to illness, aggressive behavior, poor kenneling, or extreme temperatures at origin, transfer, or destination airports.
Please contact the airline directly for information about traveling with a service animal.
