Travelling with your pet can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life, but travelling with your pet also requires ample planning and detailed knowledge about the various airline regulations that affect travel with pets. If you wish to travel on Royal Dutch KLM Airlines, then the very first step in having a stress-free experience flying with your pet will be to familiarize yourself with the KLM Pet Policy. Whether you’re taking a small kitten in the cabin or a larger dog in KLM’s climate-controlled hold, KLM has a wide array of options available to ensure your pet’s safe transport. To speak with a KLM representative directly for assistance with making a reservation or a knowledgeable travel agent to better understand the particular needs of your pet, please contact KLM by calling 1-800-618-0104.

In this guide, we will review everything you need to know about KLM Pet Policy, including weight limits, kennel requirements, breed restrictions, and where to book your trip.

Pets in Cabin (PETC)

• A small dog or cat can travel in the cabin with you if the pet is in a carrier stored under your seat.
• Weight Limit: Your pet and carrier combined must weigh no more than 8 kilograms (17.6 lb).
• Carrier Size: The maximum dimensions for the carrier are 46 x 28 x 24 cm (18″ x 11″ x 9″).
• Classes Allowed: Economy Class on all KLM flights.
• Business Class for connections within Europe.
• Pets may not travel in Premium Comfort Class or intercontinental Business Class due to differences in seating configuration.

Pets in Hold (AVIH)

• Pets that are too large to fit in the cabin can be shipped as checked baggage in a climate-controlled, fully ventilated portion of the plane’s cargo area.
• Weight Limit: The combined weight of the pet and crate cannot exceed 75 KG (165 lb).
• Quantity – You can bring up to 3 pets in the cabin.
• Size Restrictions: For wide-bodied aircraft, a kennel can measure up to 122 x 81 x 89 cm (48 x 32 x 35 in). For smaller aircraft (Boeing 737 and Embraer), the maximum size is 102 x 69 x 76 cm (40 x 27 x 30 in).

Restrictions on Travelling with Pets on KLM

• If the duration of your transfer time exceeds 3 hours, your pet cannot travel in the cargo/baggage area of the aircraft. However, when travelling through Paris with an additional 4.5 hours of transfer time, you may be able to have your pet travel in the cargo area.
• You won’t be able to take your pet on KLM’s Boeing 787-9, Boeing 787-10, and Airbus A321neo operated flights or on flights operated by German Airways.
• As a related matter, your pet cannot travel in the air cargo/baggage compartment of any KLC flight that lasts longer than 2 hours.
• In addition, you should be aware of the embargo imposed by the UK Government, which applies to all KLM flights, that prevents pets in cabin (PETS IN CABIN) or animals in cargo (AVIH) from being carried as passenger luggage to the UK. There are no restrictions on travelling with pets from the UK.

Breed Restrictions on KLM

KLM Pet Policy includes several animal welfare regulations restricting certain breeds of dogs and cats from being transported, particularly those of the brachycephalic (snub-nosed) type. Brachycephalic dogs/cats are at higher risk for respiratory problems while flying.

Some common dog breeds that are classified as brachycephalic include:

• Pug
• Bulldog (English Bulldog, French Bulldog, etc.)
• Boston Terrier
• Shih Tzu

Some common cat breeds that are classified as brachycephalic and not allowed in the hold include:

• Persian Cat
• Himalayan Cat
• Burmese
• Exotic Shorthaired Cat

Under the current KLM rules/regulations applicable to route and time of travel, these breeds may have certain travel prohibitions, or they may only be accepted for transport in the cargo hold under certain conditions (or may not be permitted at all). Please check with KLM directly or call 1-800-618-0104 for further up-to-date information about travel restrictions for particular dog and cat breeds.

Cost of Pet Travel on KLM

You will be charged a fee between EUR 70 and EUR 500 (one way) for travelling with your pet on a scheduled flight. 

The reason for the broad range is that the fee varies based on where you are flying from and to. 

You can check the exact prices when you book your ticket on the website klm.co.in 

Step-by-Step Process For Reserving Your Pet

As a reminder, since space is very limited for pets on board each flight, it is always best practice to make reservations for your pet immediately after purchasing your own ticket.

Secure Your Flight: Buy your ticket first.

Reserve Space For Your Pet: At least 48 hours before your flight, log onto the KLM website or app and access the “My Trip” section.

Track Your Pet’s Reservation: The airline will review the aircraft type and availability before the airline approves your pet’s reservation.

Pay For The Space: The reservation fee ($70 to $500) is flight-dependent. You can find out the exact pricing when making your reservation.

Pre-Travel Preparation: Get a health certificate and vaccines (rabies) for your pet from your veterinarian, along with a microchip.

Trained Service Dogs

KLM is very accommodating when it comes to travelling with Trained Service Dogs.

• Cost: There is no fee for a Service Dog to travel within the cabin of the aircraft.
• Documentation: You will need to submit a completed “KLM Service Dog Request” form or a completed U.S. DOT Service Dog Form at least 48 hours before your flight. 
• Behaviour: The Service Dog will be required to wear a harness and be kept at your feet the entire time you are in the cabin of the aircraft.
• Emotional Support (ESAs): Effective this date, ESAs are no longer considered Service Animals and will be subject to the KLM Pet Policy for pets.

Final Checklist Before Travelling with Pets

Microchip: All pets must have an ISO compliant microchip before departure.

Vaccinations: Rabies vaccination must be completed no sooner than 21 days before departing.

Documentation: Make sure to keep your pet’s passport & health certificate available for inspection.

Water/Food: For long-term travel, use bowls secured to the crate door.

Contact Customer Service: If you have questions regarding any of these requirements, please call 1-800-618-0104 to verify your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

If you are planning to travel with your animal, the experience can be very fulfilling, but it requires proper planning, as well as familiarity with the KLM Pet Policy to protect the safety and comfort of your animal. Be sure to check on size restrictions, required documents and the reservation process in plenty of time before your travel date. If you have any questions, you can call 1-800-618-0104 and speak with an experienced representative who can help clarify any specific requirements related to your itinerary.

We wish you and your furry companion safe travels and a fantastic experience with KLM!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time in advance should I book a spot for my pet?

You should reserve it at least 48 hours before your flight’s departure. Booking early enhances the likelihood of securing availability.

Am I allowed to take my pet out of the carrier while on the flight?

No. According to the KLM Pet Policy, your pet is required to stay inside their carrier or kennel throughout the entire flight to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.