As per their size, breed, and destination dependence, Air France practically allows any dog or cat to travel in the cabin with passengers, the hold (also known as “checked baggage”), or freight (also called “Cargo”). You can research the airline’s pet policies and rates in full detail on their website, but we have pulled together all the key information for you below.
We say "almost all" pets since there are a few canine species that Air France does not allow under any circumstances. And there are special rules for some breeds of dogs and cats. (See section on Breed Restrictions below.)
In-cabin travel is permitted for cats and small dogs
If your pet and their carrier don’t weigh more than 8 kg (17 lb), they may join you in the passenger cabin. You’ll need prior permission from customer service. On intercontinental flights, however, pets are not permitted in Business Class. As a result, if you are seated in that area, your pet will be forced to travel in the hold.
You may bring only one pet with you in-cabin.
Age:
In order to board a plane, pets must be at least 10 weeks old and have all necessary immunizations. The minimal age is only 8 weeks within France and to several out-of-country places (or 15 weeks if your destination is French Guiana).
Carrier:
Pets must travel in an enclosed carrier that offers adequate ventilation and enough room for them to stand and lie down. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you – no larger than 46 x 28 x 24 cm (18 x 11 x 9 in). Air France does not permit hard-sided pet carriers in the cabin, so you must use a soft-sided bag style. You will be charged an “additional baggage” fee for your pet and his carrier.
Air France Pet Policy - Rules and restrictions
Go over this information before your vacation to make sure you're ready. Also, bear in mind that each airline has its unique set of restrictions, so familiarize yourself with them before scheduling a new trip.
● Dogs and cats weighing less than 8kg/17 pounds are allowed in the main cabin. In general, soft-sided in-cabin crates should fit under the plane seat in front of you.
● Dogs and cats weighing more than 8kg/17 lbs but less than 75 kg/165.3 lbs are allowed in the luggage hold. The ASPCA recommends https://www.washingtonpost.com/newssearch/?query=Air France Pet Policy, that cargo crates be spacious enough for your pet to sit, stand, and turn around in.
● Despite the fact that brachycephalic dogs and cats are not allowed in the main cabin or luggage hold, some may be transported via freight. Pugs, shih tzus, and Chihuahuas are brachycephalic dogs with a flat face and a shorter head and snout. They usually suffer from breathing difficulties, which flying exacerbates.
Check out this post for helpful suggestions on flying with your pet, from what to bring on your flight to how to prepare Air France Pet Policy, Air France In-Cabin Pet Policy, Air France Pet in Cargo Policy, Air France Checked Baggage Pet Policy, your pet for air travel.
Pet Travel Policies of Air France - Costs
Keep these extra costs in mind when traveling with pets.
In Cabin Pet:
● Metropolitan France Flights: €40
● €30 for flights within the Caribbean
● Flights in Europe or between Europe and North Africa or Israel: €55
● Flights between metropolitan France and Cayenne, Fort-de-France, Pointe-à-Pitre, Saint-Denis de la Réunion: €55
● Other flights: €125
Baggage hold pet:
● Metropolitan France Flights’ cost: €80
● Flights within the Caribbean: €75
● Flights in Europe or between Europe and North Africa or Israel: €100
● Flights between metropolitan France and Cayenne, Fort-de-France, Pointe-à-Pitre, Saint-Denis de la Réunion: €75
● Cost for other flights: €200