Air travel with pets has become increasingly important as more people consider their furry friend’s part of the family. When relocating to another country, going on an extended trip, or even moving for work, many passengers want to bring their pets along rather than leave them behind. As one of the world’s leading airlines, Singapore Airlines is often chosen for such journeys due to its reputation for safety, service excellence, and reliability.
However, traveling with pets requires careful planning, and each airline has strict rules to ensure the comfort of animals, passengers, and crew. Singapore Airlines has a comprehensive pet travel policy designed to provide a safe and smooth experience. This article explains Singapore Airlines’ pet travel rules in detail, including eligibility, modes of travel, restrictions, fees, and tips for making the process stress-free.
An Overview of Singapore Airlines’ Pet Travel Policy
Singapore Airlines does allow pets to travel, but with specific conditions and regulations. Unlike some carriers that permit small pets inside the cabin, Singapore Airlines does not allow animals to travel in the passenger cabin. Instead, all pets must travel as either checked baggage or cargo, depending on their size, breed, and destination requirements.
The policy covers common domestic animals such as dogs and cats, with certain restrictions. Animals such as birds, reptiles, rodents, and insects are not accepted as baggage but may sometimes be transported via specialized cargo arrangements.
This approach ensures that pets travel in a controlled environment with adequate safety, ventilation, and care. While some passengers may initially feel concerned about not being able to carry their pet in the cabin, Singapore Airlines emphasizes that its animal-handling procedures meet international aviation and animal welfare standards.
Modes of Pet Travel with Singapore Airlines
There are two main ways pets can travel with Singapore Airlines:
- Pets as Checked Baggage
- Pets may travel in the cargo hold of the same aircraft as their owner.
- This option is available for dogs and cats that meet size and breed requirements.
- The pet must be placed in an airline-approved travel crate that ensures ventilation, comfort, and safety.
- The cargo hold used for live animals is temperature-controlled and pressurized, similar to the cabin environment.
- Pets as Cargo (Through Singapore Airlines Cargo)
- Larger animals or those traveling without their owners must be shipped as cargo.
- The airline’s cargo division follows specialized procedures for live animals, in line with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations.
- Cargo travel may also be mandatory for certain destinations due to local animal import regulations.
Both options require advance booking and approval, as the airline must ensure adequate space and compliance with regulations before confirming.
Eligibility Requirements for Pet Travel
Not every animal qualifies to travel with Singapore Airlines. The airline follows strict eligibility criteria based on type, age, breed, and health.
Accepted Animals
- Dogs and cats are the primary animals accepted.
- Certain other species may be considered through the cargo division, but this is subject to approval.
Age Requirements
- Pets must be at least 12 weeks old to travel.
- Some destinations require pets to be at least 16 weeks old due to vaccination rules.
Breed Restrictions
For safety and health reasons, Singapore Airlines restricts certain breeds:
- Snub-nosed Breeds
- Breeds such as bulldogs, pugs, Persian cats, and Shih Tzus are more prone to respiratory issues.
- Due to higher risks, many of these breeds are not accepted, especially on long-haul flights.
- Aggressive Dog Breeds
- Certain aggressive or restricted breeds, depending on international regulations, may not be allowed. Examples include pit bull-type dogs and other restricted breeds in specific countries.
Health Requirements
- Pets must be healthy, free from contagious diseases, and certified fit to travel.
- A veterinarian must issue a health certificate within a specified timeframe before departure (usually within 10 days).
- Vaccination records, including rabies vaccination, must be up to date.
Travel Crates and Carrier Guidelines
One of the most critical aspects of traveling with pets is the carrier. Singapore Airlines strictly follows the IATA Live Animals Regulations for crates.
General Crate Requirements
- The crate must be strong, secure, and escape-proof.
- Adequate ventilation on at least three sides is required.
- The pet must be able to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably.
- Water and food containers must be attached inside the crate and accessible from outside without opening the door.
- The crate should have absorbent material or bedding.
Crate Size
- Crates must be appropriately sized based on the animal’s dimensions.
- Undersized crates are not accepted for safety and welfare reasons.
Labeling
- Crates must be labeled with “Live Animals” stickers.
- Owner’s contact details must be clearly visible.
Documentation and Paperwork
Traveling with pets involves significant documentation, and failing to comply can result in denial of boarding or quarantine issues.
Required Documents
- Veterinary Health Certificate
- Issued by a licensed veterinarian, certifying that the pet is healthy to fly.
- Vaccination Records
- Proof of up-to-date vaccinations, including rabies.
- Import and Export Permits
- Depending on the country of origin and destination, official permits may be required.
- Microchip Certification
- Many countries require pets to be microchipped for identification.
- Other Country-Specific Documents
- For example, some nations require blood tests, quarantine arrangements, or additional vaccinations.
It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure all documents comply with the regulations of both departure and arrival countries.
Fees and Charges
Pet travel with Singapore Airlines is not included in the free baggage allowance. Fees are calculated separately.
- Charges depend on the size and weight of the animal plus crate.
- Pets as checked baggage are charged as excess baggage.
- For cargo travel, charges are based on cargo rates.
- Fees vary by route and destination, so passengers should obtain a quotation when booking.
Restrictions Based on Destinations
Not all destinations allow pets to travel as checked baggage. In some countries, pets can only be imported as cargo due to strict customs and quarantine regulations.
For example:
- Australia and New Zealand require pets to be shipped as cargo only.
- The United Kingdom has strict rules under its Pet Travel Scheme, requiring pets to enter via approved cargo channels.
Passengers must check entry requirements for their destination well in advance.
Quarantine Rules
Some destinations enforce mandatory quarantine for incoming pets, regardless of health certification. Singapore itself has quarantine requirements for pets entering the country.
- The duration of quarantine varies, usually from a few days to several weeks.
- Owners must book quarantine facilities in advance.
- Quarantine fees are payable by the passenger.
Preparing Your Pet for Travel
Pet travel is stressful for animals, so preparation is key. Singapore Airlines provides guidance on helping pets adjust to the journey.
Tips for Preparation
- Familiarize Your Pet with the Crate
- Introduce the crate weeks before travel to reduce anxiety.
- Vet Visit
- Schedule a full check-up and ensure all vaccinations are current.
- Feeding Before Flight
- Avoid feeding your pet heavily right before the flight to prevent discomfort.
- Small amounts of water are fine.
- Exercise
- Give your pet plenty of exercise before check-in to reduce stress.
- Avoid Sedation
- Sedation is generally not recommended as it can affect pets’ breathing and response during flight.
The Check-In Process for Pets
Pets traveling as checked baggage must be checked in at the airport along with the passenger.
- Arrive early, as the check-in process for pets takes extra time.
- Pets and crates are inspected for compliance with regulations.
- Airport staff ensure crates are properly labeled and secure.
- Pets are then transported to the cargo hold in temperature-controlled conditions.
For pets traveling as cargo, check-in occurs at the cargo terminal, usually several hours before departure.
Onboard and Arrival Procedures
During the flight, pets travel in a climate-controlled area of the cargo hold. While passengers cannot access pets mid-flight, trained staff monitor handling throughout the process.
Upon arrival:
- Pets as checked baggage can usually be collected at the oversized baggage claim area.
- Pets traveling as cargo must be collected at the cargo terminal.
- Customs, immigration, and quarantine checks are carried out before pets are released.
Advantages of Traveling with Pets on Singapore Airlines
- Safety and Care
- The airline complies with international animal transport standards.
- Temperature-Controlled Holds
- Pets travel in conditions similar to the passenger cabin.
- Dedicated Cargo Services
- Specialized handling through Singapore Airlines Cargo ensures pets are prioritized.
- Wide Global Network
- With flights to over 130 destinations, Singapore Airlines provides connectivity for relocating pets internationally.
- Trusted Reputation
- Singapore Airlines is known worldwide for professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the benefits, pet owners must also be aware of challenges:
- Pets cannot travel in the cabin, which may be a concern for owners who prefer keeping animals close.
- Breed restrictions limit travel for certain pets.
- High costs, including cargo charges, quarantine fees, and veterinary expenses, can add up.
- Strict documentation requirements require careful planning.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Book Early – Space for pets is limited, so request bookings months in advance.
- Confirm Destination Rules – Research quarantine laws, import permits, and vaccination requirements.
- Use the Right Crate – Invest in an IATA-approved crate.
- Label Everything Clearly – Include emergency contact details and feeding instructions.
- Stay Calm – Pets can sense anxiety, so remain composed to keep them relaxed.
- Consider Professional Pet Relocation Services – Many owners choose specialized companies that handle all paperwork, transport, and quarantine arrangements.
Conclusion
Singapore Airlines’ pet travel policy is designed with safety, compliance, and animal welfare in mind. While the airline does not allow pets in the cabin, it provides reliable options for transporting dogs and cats as checked baggage or cargo. With strict requirements for documentation, health, and crates, the airline ensures that pets are transported securely and humanely in line with global standards.
For pet owners, the key to success lies in early planning, understanding destination requirements, and preparing pets well for the journey. Though the process may seem complex, traveling with pets on Singapore Airlines is entirely manageable with the right preparation. For many families, this policy offers peace of mind, knowing that their beloved animals can travel safely across the globe with one of the world’s most trusted airlines.