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Great news for pet parents in Italy! From May 12, 2025, travelling with your dog just got a whole lot easier, thanks to updated regulations from ENAC (Ente Nazionale per l’Aviazione Civile). Say goodbye to the old restrictions that often forced medium and large dogs into the cargo hold; now, your beloved companion can join you directly in the cabin!
What’s Changing with Italy’s Latest Pet Travel Rules?
These new guidelines from ENAC are set to revolutionise pet travel within and from Italy, offering greater flexibility and comfort for both owners and their furry pals. Here’s a breakdown of the key updates:
- Cabin Access for More Dogs: This is the big one! Regardless of their size, more dogs can now access the passenger cabin. No longer just limited to smaller breeds, even your medium or larger dogs can enjoy the flight right by your side.
- Relaxed Weight Limits: The combined weight of your dog and its carrier will be less of a hurdle. While airlines will still set their own limits, the ENAC regulation allows you to exceed previous restrictions, provided the total weight doesn’t surpass that of an average passenger with luggage, which is estimated around 84 kg. This is fantastic news for owners of bigger breeds!
- Secure and Suitable Carriers: Your dog’s safety during the flight is paramount. The carrier must be approved and suitable, ensuring your pet has enough space and comfort. It’s crucial that you securely fasten it using the aircraft’s seatbelts or other compatible restraint systems, and you position it so it doesn’t block emergency exits.
- Essential Documentation: Before you jet off, make sure you have all your pet’s health documentation in order. For travel within Italy, your dog’s health booklet should suffice. For European destinations, a valid pet passport is mandatory, and for non-EU countries, you may need specific international health certificates.
- Book Your Pet’s Spot in Advance: Airlines limit the number of spaces for pets on each flight (whether in the cabin or cargo hold). To avoid disappointment, we highly recommend booking your dog’s place well in advance by contacting your airline’s customer service directly.
Airline-Specific Policies: What You Need to Know for Flights from Italy
While these new ENAC regulations provide a general framework, it’s vital to remember that each airline may have its own specific rules. Always double-check with your chosen carrier before you book.
- ITA Airways: This Italian flag carrier allows pets in the cabin. Currently, the maximum permitted weight is 10 kg for domestic flights (excluding the carrier) and 8 kg for other flights (again, excluding the carrier). Carrier dimensions must not exceed 24 cm high, 40 cm long, and 30 cm wide (20 cm on international flights). ITA Airways also offers transport in climate-controlled and pressurised cargo holds for larger animals, with varying costs.
- Ryanair: This airline largely maintains its policy of not allowing pets on board, with the key exception of guide or assistance dogs on specific routes.
- Other Airlines: Italian and international carriers like Aeroitalia, Air Dolomiti, Lumiwings, and Neos do accept animals on board, but they each have their own specific rules regarding weight, carrier size, and fees. We strongly advise you to check their official websites for the most current details.
Top Tips for a Smooth Journey with Your Dog from Italy
To ensure a positive travel experience for both you and your canine companion, consider these helpful suggestions:
- Always Check Your Airline’s Rules: Never assume! Thoroughly review the specific policies of your airline regarding carrier size, maximum weight, required documents, and any other pertinent details.
- Prepare Your Dog for Travel: Gradually introduce your dog to its carrier in the days or weeks leading up to your trip. Pack essential items like foldable bowls, wipes, a familiar blanket, and, of course, all necessary health documents.
- Book Early: Spots for pets in the cabin (and cargo hold) are limited. Make sure to book your dog’s travel as soon as you confirm your own flight. For example, ITA Airways requires you to book your pet’s travel at least 48 hours in advance via their Customer Information Assistance Office.
- Guide and Assistance Dogs: Recognised guide and assistance dogs (for mobility, visual, auditory, cognitive, or psychiatric disabilities) benefit from special regulations, allowing them to travel in the cabin free of charge, regardless of their size or breed.
- Brachycephalic Breeds – A Note of Caution: If your dog is a brachycephalic breed (with a “snub nose,” like Bulldogs or Pugs), carefully consider the risks of cargo hold transport due to their sensitivity to stress and temperature changes. Many airlines advise against or even prohibit transporting these breeds in the cargo hold for their safety.
Refunds and Other Important Details
Should unforeseen circumstances arise, you may claim a refund for the pet transport service due to the illness or death of the animal itself, or in the case of illness or death of close relatives or other passengers on the same booking. You will need to present a valid veterinary or medical certificate.
The new ENAC 2025 regulations mark a significant step forward for animal welfare during transit and offer greater freedom for owners to bring their pets on holiday. With proper preparation and adherence to the rules, your next flight with your dog is set to be a calm and memorable experience!
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