Virgin Australia has made aviation history today by allowing small dogs in leak-proof carry cases to fly with passengers on flights between Melbourne and the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.
Today’s launch is part of a trial to see how small dogs and cats interact with passengers.
Virgin said eligible pets such as small dogs and cats can travel for an introductory price of $149 per animal, per flight.
A spokesman said the trial starting today will run until January 30 next year when it will be gradually expanded to all eligible Virgin Australia domestic flights.
To celebrate today’s first Pets in Cabin flight (VA733 from Melbourne to the Gold Coast), Virgin chief Sir Richard Branson shared a special audio message over the aircraft PA.
Guests were also gifted 10,000 Velocity Frequent Flyer points – enough Points to redeem a one-way domestic flight on Virgin Australia.
Virgin Australia CEO Dave Emerson, said pets were part of the family and people liked to take them on holiday.
“Launching Australia’s first Pets in Cabin flights is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of,” Mr Emerson said.
“We’re excited to give Australians a new way to holiday.
“We’re very confident the Pets in Cabin trial will be a success. It’s an offering that’s worked effectively in the US and Europe for decades, and something Australian travellers have waited for, for years.
“Innovation has always been in Virgin Australia’s DNA. From being the first airline in Australia to offer online check-in and baggage tracking, to being the first airline in the world to reward guests for sitting in the middle seat (through our Middle Seat Lottery promotion), we’ve consistently led the way. That spirit of innovation, combined with our focus on our customers, is what sets us apart in the market,” he said.
Virgin’s pets check list
- Small dogs or cats only. Please note, cats will not initially be permitted on flights between Melbourne and the Gold Coast.
- Pet limit: A limit of four pets weighing under 8 kg(combined with the carrier) will be permitted on each eligible flight.
- Pets must travel in an approved soft-sided leak-proof carrier measuring no more than 44 cm (L) x 26 cm (W) x 28 cm (H).
- Absorbent mats must be placed inside the carrier when travelling. Suitable carriers are available for purchase from leading pet supply retailers.
- Pets must be secured in a pet carrier which must be stowed under the seat in front of the owner for the duration of the flight.
- Seating allocation: Guests travelling with pets will be seated in window seats in two designated rows only (seats 18A and 18F and 20A and 20F).
- Pets must be up to date with vaccinations prior to travel.
- Health and safety: Pets with existing health conditions, including those that are pregnant, are recovering from surgery or injury, are between 8-12 weeks of age, are over 12 years of age or are brachycephalic breed, must have a veterinary-issued certificate confirming the pet is fit to fly. Pets under eight weeks old are unable to travel.
Virgin said its aircraft are fitted with air filtration systems that remove 99 per cent of airborne particles including pet dander, providing peace of mind for guests with allergies.
Virgin says in accordance with food standards regulations, pets are not permitted in any food and beverage service areas, including Virgin Australia Lounges.
A spokesman said Virgin Australia will continue to offer pets to be transported as cargo on all eligible domestic services through approved pet carrier services.
Approved assistance animals will continue to be able to travel in the cabin of Virgin Australia aircraft at no cost.
