Take the Scenic Detour 🛣

Hidden gems. Historic towns. Great food. Great company (sometimes furry). Subscribe for insider tips you won’t find on TripAdvisor.

We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.
Built with Kit
448550767 986486863124219 6581941202817132074 n
Hey there! This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I believe will be of value to you. Thank you! I really appreciate your support! You can find more information in our Privacy Policy in the footer.

42 European Airlines That Allow Dogs in Cabin: Best 2026 Guide

by

We’ve traveled all across Europe with our in-cabin french bulldog Helga. It has sometimes be a challenge for us to find European airlines that allow dogs in cabin, especially for a dog weighing more than 8 kilos (17.6 pounds).

But after some exhaustive research, here’s your ultimate guide to 42 pet-friendly European airlines that allow dogs in cabin, including the weight and size limits for your pet and carrier, and extra pet fees. I’ve flown from Amsterdam to Frankfurt, and the Canary Islands to Sicily with my in-cabin 20-pound french bulldog, Helga! It can be done.

There are many reasons to travel with your dog in cabin. It may be a permanent relocation, a military move, a snub-nosed dog that cannot fly in the hold, lack of reliable pet sitters at home, or simply the desire to be close to your nervous or older dog while traveling. Whatever your reason, it can still be a daunting task to find true pet-friendly European airlines unless you know your options and where to begin.

What You'll Find in this Post

Can I fly with my dog in cabin in Europe?

European airlines that allow dogs in cabin
Volotea is a great European budget airline based in Spain that takes dogs in the cabin up to 10kg (22 pounds)

Pet-friendly European airlines that allow dogs in cabin are a bit more restrictive than U.S. airlines regarding weight. Most airlines have an in-cabin weight limit of only 8kg (17.6 pounds) including the dog and the carrier. There are a few that have a 10kg cutoff for dog and carrier (22 pounds).

And we are now seeing a new generation of airlines like Bark Air and K9 Jets that cater exclusively to the canine set. Until these airlines are up to scale, prices do remain higher for these options. But at least they’re there!

And, of course, if price is no object, there are private jet companies like Villiers and others where your dog is free to roam onboard.

Must Do’s Before You Fly

A small french bulldog stands on an oriental rug looking up at a woman holding her pet passport

▪️ Make sure you have satisfied all medical, vaccine, and paperwork requirements for your destination. Be sure your pet is healthy and capable of making the trip in good condition.

▪️ Always inform the airline when you are purchasing your ticket that you will be flying with a dog. Only a certain number of pets are allowed (and sometimes only certain seats are available) on each flight.

▪️ Always book your flight as early as possible so you can be sure to secure one of the available dog reservations.

▪️ Give your dog a bath. Some airlines specifically warn of stinky dogs not being permitted, and you’ll also cut down on dander and allergens that might affect other passengers.

A very relaxed french bulldog in the bathtub getting spray from a hand held shower attachment

▪️ Always re-confirm that the airline has your dog reservation on record at some point between your booking and your flight.

▪️ Read How to Fly With Your Dog in Cabin for tips, tricks, and hacks, to make your flight smooth and easy for you and your dog!

This list is not exhaustive, and you should always be sure to double-check and do your research before you book. All the airline links below go to pet policies for that airline.

Airlines change their pet policies often, and may have other restrictions like age or breed of the animal, whether you are also traveling with a baby, and how many pets are allowed per person, per carrier, and per flight.

The Adventure Lion contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, we will receive a small amount of compensation at no extra cost to you.

Helga’s Gear 🐾

✅ Helga has two sizes of this Sherpa Airline Approved pet carrier. The medium-sized one works for smaller European airlines and short flights. The large-sized one we use for long haul flights or Atlantic crossings.

🌟 The Mr. Peanut Pet Trolley was life changing! Put the carrier on top, and glide through the airport with ease. When you get to your seat, just fold it and stick it in the overhead bin. This one purchase saved my shoulders from lugging the carrier around!

🚗 For rental cars on the other end of your trip, we use this device that clips right in to the seat belt. This is usually sufficient to fulfill safety requirements for most countries, and is very small and easy to pack.

🧊 If you are traveling in the summer, have cooling mats for your dog in case they need them. You can use larger-sized ones that your dog can stretch out on, or smaller ones that fit right inside a carrier. Also consider bringing a battery-operated fan in case the plane or airport is hot.

🚨Even if your dog doesn’t normally use pee pads, use them to line the bottom of their carrier or kennel just in case of accidents. And a loose one is handy to quickly clean up an accident. We use these charcoal ones because of the padding and odor control.

🍵 We use collapsible silicone bowls which are food grade, lightweight, will pack flat, and come with caribiners so you can clip them on to a carrier or leash. They’re good to have handy so you can make sure your dog stays hydrated if they get hot.

✈️ European Airlines That Allow Dogs in Cabin up to 8kg (17.6 pounds) Including Carrier

A white frenchie sleeping in a black mesh carry on bag

All these airlines require that dogs remain completely in the carrier under the seat in front of you for the entire time they are on the plane. Most also require leak-proof soft-sided carriers with ventilation on all sides. Fees are for travel one way.

1) KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Netherlands)

Policy: They permit one cat or dog per passenger in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Combined weight of the pet and carrier can’t exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs).

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 46 x 28 x 24 cm (18 x 11 x 9 inches).

Fee: €50–€125 depending on the destination and route.

2) Air France  (France)

Policy: Cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Carrier must fit under the seat in front; typical dimensions are 46 x 28 x 24 cm (18 x 11 x 9 inches).

Fee: €50 for shorter flights within Europe. €125 for long-haul flights to or from destinations like the U.S., Asia, and other international routes.

Please Note: Pets cannot fly in the cabin on certain international routes. Check with the airline.

3) Brussels Airlines (Belgium)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 118 cm/46.5 inches (length + width + height); must fit under the seat in front.

Fee: €50–€110. Service dogs fly free.

4) Air Baltic (Latvia)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 55 x 40 x 23 cm (22 x 16 x 9 inches).

Special Notes: Pets are not allowed in Business Class seats

5) Lufthansa (Germany)

Policy: Allows small dogs and cats in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier. Lufthansa is notorious for weighing very precisely!

Carrier Dimensions: Soft-sided carrier of maximum 55 x 40 x 23 cm (22 x 16 x 9 inches)

Fee: €55–€110

6) Iberia (Spain)

Policy: Pets allowed in the cabin on most flights.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum dimensions of 45 x 35 x 25 cm (18 x 14 x 10 inches).

Please Note: Pets are not allowed in the cabin on flights to/from the UK.

Fee: €35–€150

7) Austrian Airlines (Austria)

Policy: Allows small cats and dogs in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 55 x 40 x 23 cm (22 x 16 x 9 inches).

Fee: €55–€110

Please Note: Two pets per passenger are allowed in the cabin, depending on availability.

8) Finnair (Finland)

Policy: Pets are allowed in the cabin on most short-haul and select long-haul flights.

Weight Limit: Maximum of 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Soft-sided carrier with dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm. (22 x 16 x 9 inches)

Fee: €40–€75

Please Note: Pets cannot be carried on flights to/from Hong Kong and Australia.

9) Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) (Denmark)

Policy: Allows pets in the cabin on most flights.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, and exact dimensions depend on the aircraft, so check with the airline first.

Fee: €70–€80

10) Condor Airlines (Germany)

Policy: Allows small cats and dogs in the cabin.

Weight Limit: The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs).

Carrier Dimensions: maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm (22 x 16 x 8 inches).

Fee: €49 per flight within Europe, and €100 per flight for other international destinations.

11) LOT Polish Airlines (Poland)

Policy: Small pets (dogs, cats, ferrets) are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 55 x 40 x 20 cm (22 x 16 x 8 inches).

Fee: €60 for flights within Europe. €120 for international flights (outside Europe).

12) Eurowings (Germany)

Policy: Small pets (cats and dogs only) are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Soft-sided carrier of maximum 40 x 40 x 25.5 cm (16 x 16 x 10 inches).

Fee: €40 for domestic flights within Germany, and €75 for international flights.

Please Note: No pets are allowed on flights to/from the UK or Ireland.

13) TAP Air Portugal (Portugal)

Policy: Allows pets in the cabin on most flights.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 40 x 33 x 17 cm (16 x 13 x 7 inches)

Fee: €70–€200

14) Swiss Air

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Combined weight of pet and carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs).

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 118 cm/46 inches (length + width + height).

Fee: €62–€114

15) Aegean Air (Greece)

Policy: Small pets allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Must fit under the seat in front. Dimensions vary by aircraft type, so call the airline first to be sure your carrier will fit.

16) Turkish Airlines (Turkey)

Policy: Allows small pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 23 x 30 x 40 cm (9 x 12 x 16 inches)

Fee: €55–€200

17) Vueling (Spain)

Policy: Allows pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 45 x 39 x 21 cm (18 x 15 x 8 inches).

Fee: €40–€50

18) Air Connect (Romania)

Policy: Allows up to two pets in the cabin per flight.

Weight Limit: Maximum of 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm (16 x 12 x 8 inches); passengers should check in at least two hours before departure.

Fee: €40–€50

19) Air Corsica (France)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Combined weight of pet and soft carrier up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs).

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum dimensions must total no more than 115 cm/45 inches (length + width + height). Carriers are available for purchase at the check-in desk.

Fee: €50

20) Air Europa (Spain)

Policy: Pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: The weight of the pet cannot exceed 8 kg. The overall weight of the carrier and pet cannot exceed 10 kg.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 55 x 35 x 25 cm (22 x 14 x 10 inches)

Please Note: Up to three animals of the same species can share a carrier if weight and size limits are not exceeded. 

Fee: €25–€150

21) Aer Lingus (Ireland)

Policy: Allows pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Specific weight limits apply but you have to contact the airline to confirm what they are.

Please note: There are lots of rules and regs for this airline, and for flying into the UK. Please read the link above and check out the requirements thoroughly.

22) Bluebird Airways (Greece)

Policy: Allows pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 55 x 40 x 20 cm (22 x 16 x 8 inches)

Fee: €80

23) Croatia Airlines (Croatia)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 115 cm/45 inches (length + width + height).

Fee: €28-€70

Please Note: Pets are not permitted on flights to/from the UK.

24) Air Serbia (Serbia)

Policy: Allows small pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Must fit under the seat in front (maximum sum of dimensions 94 cm/37 inches).; soft-sided carriers are preferred.

Fees: €50–€160

25) Pegasus Airlines (Turkey)

Policy: Allows pets in the cabin on most routes.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 55 x 40 x 20 cm (22 x 16 x 8 inches).

Fee: €20–€120

Please Note: Pets may not travel to or from the UK

26) Norwegian Regional Airlines (Norway)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Check with airline for dimensions.

Please Note: Your dog may be in the cabin on flights within Schengen Zone and/or EU, excluding Iceland.

27) TAROM (Romania)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 42 x 30 x 20 cm (16 x 12 x 8 inches)

Fee: €25–€50

Please Note: TAROM requires you to confirm your pet travel at least 24 hours before departure.

28) Azores Airlines (Portugal)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: 40 x 35 cm x 21 cm (16 x 14 x 8.5 inches).

Fee: €70–€150

29) Bulgaria Air (Bulgaria)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Must fit under the seat; specific dimensions depend on the aircraft. Contact the airline for more information.

Fee: €50-€90

30) Air Albania (Albania)

Policy: Permits small pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 40 x 30 x 23 cm (16 x 15 x 9.5 inches)

Fee: €30–€60

31) La Compagnie (France – All Business Class Airline)

Policy: Allows small pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier dimensions: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (22 x 14 x 10 inches)

Fee:  €200 for each leg

✈️ European Airlines That Allow Dogs in Cabin Up to 10kg (22pounds) Including Carrier

An airline seat with a bunch of stuff in the seat pocket and a french bulldog napping in a black carryon bag under the seat

All these airlines require that dogs remain completely in the carrier under the seat in front of you for the entire time they are on the plane. Most also require leak-proof soft-sided carriers with ventilation on all sides. Fees are for travel one way.

32) Volotea Airlines (Spain)

(Read my detailed review of traveling in cabin with a dog on Volotea)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 10 kg (22 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 50 x 40 x 20 cm (20 x 16 x 8 inches).

Fee: €40–€65

33) AeroItalia (Italy)

Policy: Allows small pets (dogs and cats) in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 10 kg (22 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size 46 x 31 x 25 cm (18 x 12 x 10 inches).

Fee: €50

34) Air Europa (Spain)

Policy: Allows pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.5 x 14 x 10 inches). Up to three animals of the same species can share a carrier if you don’t exceed the weight and size limits.

Fee: €25–€150

35) KM Malta Airlines (Malta)

Policy: Small pets are allowed in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 10 kg (22 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 55 x 40 x 20 cm (20 x 16 x 8 inches).

Fee: €70

36) Alitalia/ITA Airways (Italy)

Policy: Permits small pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs) on international flights; up to 10 kg (22 lbs) on domestic flights within Italy, including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size of 24 x 40 x 20 cm (9.5 x 16 x 8 inches) The carrier can hold up to five pets of the same species, provided the total weight does not exceed the specified limit.

Fee: €70–€125

37) Neos Air (Italy)

Policy: Allows small pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 10 kg (22 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions:  Maximum size of 48 x 35 x 29 cm (19 x 14 x 11.5 inches)

Fee: €50–€120

38) Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas (Spain)

Policy: Allows small pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 10 kg (22 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: Maximum dimensions are 40 x 55 x 20 cm (16 x 22 x 8 inches)

Fee: €150

39) World2Fly (Spain)

Policy: Allows small pets in the cabin.

Weight Limit: Up to 10 kg (22 lbs), including the carrier.

Carrier Dimensions: No larger than 45 x 39 x 21 cm (18 x 15 x 8.5 inches), provided that the sum of these three dimensions does not exceed 105 cm/41.5 inches. 

Fees: €150

Private Charters That Allow Dogs in Cabin With No Weight Limit

A french bulldog napping in a black airline carrier next to a stuffed sheep

If you are willing to pay a premium for a hassle-free, luxurious, and pet-centered flying experience, private charter airlines, or private jets might be for you.

40) Villiers

Policy: Pets are free to roam about the cabin as you like. No breed restrictions.

Weight Limit: None

Carrier Dimensions: No carrier necessary

Fees: No additional fees

Please Note: Route map is limited, and you will pay considerably more than for a commercial airline.

41) Bark Air

Bark Air is a private charter airline specifically designed for pet owners who prioritize the comfort of their pets during flights. Flights are shared with other people and pets.

Policy: Pets travel comfortably in the cabin and sit with you.

Weight Limit: There is no weight limit for your dog.

Carrier Dimensions: Pets are not required to stay in carriers.

Fees: There are no additional pet fees.

Please Note: Destinations are limited. Price of tickets includes human and dog. Tickets sell out well in advance depending on the time of year and popularity of the route.

42) K9 Jets

K9 Jets is another private jet charter service designed for dog travelers. It offers shared private flights between select destinations in the U.S., Europe, and the Caribbean.

Policy: Pets travel comfortably in the cabin and sit with you.

Weight Limit: There is no weight limit for your dog.

Carrier Dimensions: Pets are not required to stay in carriers.

Fees: There are no additional pet fees.

Please Note: Destinations are limited. Tickets sell out well in advance depending on the time of year and popularity of the route.

Happy Travels With Your Dog!

🚨 If your flight is not direct, make sure that the airline you book with is the same airline for all legs of your flight. If your main ticket holder uses a partner airline, verify that your dog will be able to be in the cabin with the same policies on the partner airline as the airline you originally book with. For instance United Airlines may pair with Lufthansa for cross-Atlantic flights, and the weight limits are not the same.

Hopefully now that you know there are so many European airlines that allow dogs in cabin, you’ll be able to find the perfect match for you and your dog! Happy travels!

READ NEXT:

Check out these articles for more on pet-friendly travel!

Jeanne author photo

Jeanne — Award-Winning Writer & History-Loving Traveler

Jeanne is a New York Times best-selling author and national award-winning blogger who traded thirty years in Alaska for a life of exploring Europe with her loyal French bulldog. She writes about European history, culture, and dog-friendly adventures on The Adventure Lion.

About Jeanne | Subscribe