Pet Travel: Crate Requirements For Air Transport

If you're planning to travel with your pet, it's important to know the requirements for their crate or carrier. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) sets the rules for pet crates, which are accepted by most airlines. These rules cover stocking density, construction, ventilation, animal health, food and water, and safety. Crates must be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, and they must be made of specific materials, such as rigid plastic, metal, or wood. When travelling with pets, it's crucial to plan ahead, ensure your pet's comfort and safety, and comply with the regulations of the country you're entering and leaving.

Crate construction requirements

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) determines the minimum container structure requirements for pets travelling in cargo. The crate must be constructed out of rigid plastic, metal or wood, with metal nuts and bolts. The inside of the crate must have nothing sharp or protruding that could injure the animal.

The crate must be well-ventilated, with a minimum of 16% of the surface area dedicated to ventilation. For domestic flights, ventilation is required on a minimum of three sides, and for international flights, this is a minimum of four sides. The ventilation holes must not be taped over or blocked.

The crate door must be secure, with a spring-loaded locking system, with pins extending at least 1.6 cm beyond the framework above and below the door. Cable ties are also recommended for extra security. The door must be made of heavy-duty plastic or welded metal, strong enough so that the animal cannot bend it, and nose and paw-proof.

The crate should be sturdy and not collapsible, with the upper and lower sections attached with metal hardware. The floor of the crate must be solid and leakproof.

The crate must be large enough for the animal to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. For brachycephalic breeds (snub-nosed), a larger crate is required.

Other requirements include:

• "Live Animal" stickers on the top and sides of the crate
• Forklift spacers for animals over 60kg
• Food and water bowls attached to the inside of the front door
• Contact information and the animal's name on the outside of the crate

Crate size requirements

When it comes to crate size requirements, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) determines the minimum container structure requirements. All airlines must comply with the IATA's minimum requirements, but individual airlines may add additional restrictions.

The crate must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The specific measurements will depend on the size of your pet. The crate should have a minimum of 2 inches of clearance above the top of your pet's head when standing in its natural position for US domestic travel, and 3 inches for international travel.

The formula for determining the approximate size of the crate is as follows:

• Animal measurements:
• A = length of the animal from the tip of the nose to the base/root of the tail.
• B = height from the ground to the elbow joint.
• C = width across the shoulders or the widest point (whichever is greater).
• D = height of the animal in its natural standing position from the top of the head or the ear tip to the floor (whichever is higher).

The minimum internal container dimensions for a single animal are:

• Container length = A + ½ B
• Container width = C x 2
• Container height = D + bedding

Snub-nosed breeds require a container that is 10% larger.

It's important to note that the measurements A, B, C, and D for determining the container dimensions must relate to the largest animal if you are travelling with more than one pet.

Additionally, the crate should be made of rigid plastic, metal, or wood, with metal nuts and bolts. The inside of the crate must have nothing sharp or protruding that could injure your pet. The floor of the crate should be leak-proof and solid, and the crate should have ventilation on at least three sides for domestic flights and four sides for international flights.

Crate ventilation requirements

When flying with pets, crates must meet specific ventilation requirements. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) sets the regulations for pet crates, which have been accepted by most airlines.

For domestic flights, crates must have ventilation on a minimum of three sides. For international flights, this is a minimum of four sides. The openings must be a maximum of 1" (2.5 cm) over the upper two-thirds of the opposite end for dogs, and 3/4" for cats. The ventilation openings must be spaced 4 inches (10 cm) apart from the centre of each opening. The total ventilated area must be at least 16% of the total surface area of the four sides.

Additional holes are permitted on the roof or sides, as long as they do not affect the strength of the crate. The ventilation holes must not be taped over or blocked in any way.

The crate must also have "Live Animal" stickers on the top and sides, in letters at least 1" tall.

Crate door requirements

When flying with pets, there are specific requirements that must be met for the crate door. The door must have a secure, spring-loaded locking system with pins extending at least 1.6 cm (5/8 in) beyond the framework above and below it. This ensures that the door is closed securely and your pet cannot escape. Many airlines also require cable ties at each corner of the door for added security.

The door must be constructed of heavy-duty plastic or welded/cast metal that is strong enough to withstand scratching and chewing by your pet. It is recommended to use metal for the door to ensure maximum security. The door should also be nose-and-paw-proof, meaning that your pet cannot injure themselves by sticking their nose or paws through the bars or mesh.

The crate door should also have food and water bowls attached to the inside, which can be refilled from the outside without opening the door. This ensures that your pet has access to food and water during their travel without compromising the security of the crate.

Additionally, the crate must have proper ventilation, with openings on at least three sides, including the door. This ensures adequate airflow for your pet's comfort and safety.

It is important to note that crates with doors on the top are not compliant with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations or airline requirements.

Crate identification requirements

• Clear and Secure Labels: The crate must be properly labelled with "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers on the top and sides, along with directional stickers. Additionally, include your pet's name and your contact information on the crate. This can be done by attaching a piece of paper with duct tape or sturdy tape.
• Health and Travel Documents: Tape the required health certificate and any other necessary documents to the top of the crate. These documents may include vaccination records, health declarations, and travel authorizations, depending on your destination.
• Feeding and Watering Instructions: As per IATA recommendations, include a Shipper's Declaration sticker on the top of the crate, indicating when your pet was last fed and given water. Additionally, provide feeding and watering instructions for a 24-hour period, securely attached to the crate.
• Collar and Leash: Attach your pet's collar and leash to the outside of the crate, preferably in a plastic bag. This ensures that your pet can be easily accessed and handled if needed.
• Pet Comfort Items: Include items that provide a familiar scent, such as an unwashed t-shirt or a pet pad. These items can help comfort your pet during the journey.

It is important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the airline and your destination, so always review the guidelines provided by the airline and the relevant regulatory bodies, such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and local authorities.

Frequently asked questions