Traveling with pets has become increasingly common as more airlines adapt to the needs of pet parents. Avianca Airlines, one of Latin America’s most established carriers, offers clear options for passengers who wish to fly with their furry companions. Understanding the rules in advance can help you avoid last-minute stress, unexpected fees, or denied boarding. This detailed guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Avianca Pet Policy, including eligibility, cabin and cargo options, fees, documentation, and practical travel tips.
Whether you’re relocating, planning a vacation, or traveling for family reasons, preparing your pet correctly is just as important as booking your ticket. Many travelers reach out to a trusted flight help-center or airline support service to double-check requirements, especially for international routes. If you need real-time assistance, you can also call 1 (866) 558-3017 to clarify pet travel options and availability.
Overview of Avianca’s Pet Travel Rules
Avianca allows pets to travel either in the cabin or as checked baggage/cargo, depending on the animal’s size, weight, and route. The airline prioritizes safety, comfort, and compliance with international regulations.
Under the Avianca Pet Policy, pets must be healthy, properly vaccinated, and transported in airline-approved carriers. Advance reservations are required because Avianca limits the number of pets allowed per flight.
Passengers often consult a flight help-center when planning pet travel, especially during peak seasons, as availability can fill quickly.
Pets Allowed on Avianca Flights
Avianca generally permits:
Domestic cats and dogs
Service animals (subject to different rules)
Emotional support animals (policy may vary by route and regulation)
Other animals, such as birds or exotic pets, are usually not accepted on standard passenger flights. Always confirm before booking.
If you are unsure whether your pet qualifies, calling 1 (866) 558-3017 can help you verify acceptance and documentation requirements.
Traveling With Pets in the Cabin
Small cats and dogs may travel in the cabin if they meet weight and size restrictions. The pet must remain inside its carrier throughout the flight and be placed under the seat in front of you.
Cabin Requirements
Maximum combined weight (pet + carrier): usually around 10 kg (may vary by aircraft)
Soft-sided or hard-sided carrier approved for air travel
Carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and secure
Only one pet per passenger (with limited exceptions)
Under the Avianca Pet Policy, pets in the cabin count as carry-on items, meaning you may have reduced allowance for personal baggage.
Traveling With Pets as Checked Baggage or Cargo
Larger pets that exceed cabin limits may travel in the aircraft’s climate-controlled cargo hold. This option is commonly used for medium to large dogs.
Cargo Travel Rules
IATA-approved hard kennel required
Pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
Food and water containers must be attached inside the crate
Temperature restrictions may apply based on season and destination
Many travelers prefer contacting a flight help-center to confirm cargo availability and safety standards in advance. For detailed guidance, 1 (866) 558-3017 is often used by passengers planning cargo pet travel.
Documentation and Health Requirements
Before flying, pet owners must prepare all required documents. Missing paperwork is one of the most common reasons pets are denied boarding.
Typical requirements include:
Valid veterinary health certificate
Proof of up-to-date vaccinations (especially rabies)
Import/export permits for international travel
Microchip (mandatory for some countries)
Under theAvianca Airline Pet Policy, documentation must usually be issued within a specific timeframe before departure, often 10 days or less.
International Pet Travel on Avianca
International routes involve stricter regulations due to country-specific import laws. Some destinations may require quarantine or additional testing.
When flying internationally, travelers should verify:
Destination country pet import rules
Transit country regulations (if connecting flights are involved)
Breed restrictions, especially for brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs
Because international pet travel can be complex, many passengers rely on a flight help-center to cross-check requirements and avoid costly mistakes.
Fees for Traveling With Pets
Pet travel is subject to additional charges that vary by route, destination, and transport method (cabin or cargo).
Fees may depend on:
Domestic vs. international travel
Pet size and weight
Cabin or cargo placement
Since charges can change, travelers frequently call 1 (866) 558-3017 to confirm current pet travel costs before finalizing bookings.
Breed Restrictions and Limitations
Certain breeds may face restrictions due to health and safety concerns, particularly short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, or Persian cats.
Avianca may restrict or limit:
Specific dog and cat breeds
Travel during extreme weather conditions
Routes with long flight durations
These rules fall under the broader Avianca Pet Policy, designed to minimize risk during air travel.
Booking a Flight With Your Pet
Pet reservations cannot always be made online. In many cases, you must contact Avianca directly or work with a flight help-center to add a pet to your booking.
Booking Tips
Reserve pet space as early as possible
Confirm aircraft type and pet limits
Keep copies of all documents
Arrive early on the day of departure
For booking assistance, travelers commonly reach out via 1 (866) 558-3017 to avoid last-minute surprises.
Preparing Your Pet for the Flight
A comfortable pet is a calm traveler. Preparation goes beyond paperwork.
Helpful preparation steps include:
Acclimating your pet to the carrier before travel
Avoiding heavy meals right before departure
Exercising your pet prior to check-in
Labeling the carrier with contact information
Following these steps ensures a smoother experience under the Avianca Pet Policy.
Service Animals on Avianca
Service animals assisting passengers with disabilities are typically allowed to travel in the cabin free of charge, provided proper documentation is supplied.
Rules may differ from standard pet travel and often depend on international regulations. It’s recommended to confirm service animal requirements well in advance through a flight help-center or airline support.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many travelers encounter issues because of avoidable errors:
Booking without confirming pet availability
Using non-approved carriers
Missing documentation deadlines
Ignoring breed or temperature restrictions
Understanding the Avianca Airline Pet Policy thoroughly helps prevent these problems and ensures a stress-free journey.
FAQs About Avianca Pet Travel
1. Can I bring my pet in the cabin on Avianca flights?
Yes, small cats and dogs may travel in the cabin if they meet size and weight limits. The pet must remain inside an approved carrier placed under the seat. Availability is limited, so early booking is recommended.
2. How much does it cost to fly with a pet on Avianca?
Pet travel fees vary by route and whether the pet travels in the cabin or cargo. Prices can change seasonally, so it’s best to confirm current charges before booking.
3. Are pets allowed on international Avianca flights?
Yes, pets are allowed on many international routes, but additional documentation and country-specific rules apply. Always verify destination requirements in advance to avoid delays or denial.
4. Are there breed restrictions for pets on Avianca?
Certain breeds, especially short-nosed dogs and cats, may face restrictions due to health risks. These limitations depend on route, temperature, and aircraft type.
5. Do I need to call Avianca to add my pet to the reservation?
In most cases, yes. Pet space is limited and must be reserved separately. Many travelers use airline support or a flight help-center for faster confirmation.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pet on Avianca can be a smooth and positive experience when you understand the rules and prepare properly. From cabin travel for small pets to cargo options for larger animals, Avianca offers structured solutions designed with safety and comfort in mind. The key is early planning, proper documentation, and confirming details ahead of time.
The Avianca Pet Policy provides clear guidelines, but regulations can vary by route and destination. When in doubt, consulting a reliable help-center or speaking directly with airline support can save time and stress. For personalized assistance, many travelers choose to call 1 (866) 558-3017 and confirm their pet’s eligibility before departure.
By following the guidelines and preparing your pet carefully, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your companion is ready to travel safely by your side.