Published on
September 30, 2025
Russia’s national carrier, Aeroflot, has introduced a special check-in desk for pet passengers at Sheremetyevo Airport. The service, at Desk No. 349, is introduced to isolate pet travelers from general check-in, giving them a faster and easier process. Pet passengers on domestic flights can now have their pre-flight process done at one designated desk. This service is Aeroflot’s way of showing concern for catering to pet owners’ needs, so that both animals and their owners can have a comfortable, safe, and hassle-free travel experience.
Streamlining Travel for Pet Owners
The pet check-in desk at Sheremetyevo Airport handles all essential tasks for travelers flying with pets. Staff verify travel documents for both pets and passengers, ensure that pet carriers meet airline requirements, issue boarding passes, and register pets for the flight. Passengers also receive guidance and recommendations on preparing their pets for travel, helping to minimize stress and ensure a safe journey.
Expansion Plans: Future International Services
While the dedicated desk currently serves domestic travelers, Aeroflot plans to expand the service to international flights in the near future. This expansion will allow pet owners traveling abroad to access the same level of specialized support, further positioning Aeroflot as a leader in pet-friendly aviation.
The airline’s long-term vision is to create a consistent, high-quality experience for pets and their owners, whether traveling domestically or internationally, reinforcing customer trust in its services.
Recognized for Corporate Social Responsibility
Aeroflot’s dedication to animal welfare has been formally recognized. The airline recently received an award at the First All-Russian Award for Animal Protection and Ecology, winning in the “Corporate Social Responsibility: Business for the Benefit of Animals” category. This recognition highlights the airline’s efforts to combine commercial operations with ethical treatment of animals, setting a standard for other airlines in pet travel.
The award emphasizes Aeroflot’s commitment to responsible practices and its role in promoting animal protection while providing high-quality aviation services.
Specialized Training and Customer Service Excellence
To ensure pets receive the best care, Aeroflot has provided extensive training for customer care representatives, airport staff, and in-flight teams. Staff are educated on handling pets safely, managing stress, and providing comfort during flights. These efforts guarantee that passengers traveling with animals encounter a seamless and attentive service experience from check-in to boarding.
The airline also integrates feedback from passengers into its service improvements, demonstrating a responsive and customer-focused approach that continuously adapts to the evolving needs of pet owners.
Partnerships for Enhanced Animal Welfare
Aeroflot has partnered with the Umeed for Animals Foundation, a non-profit animal rehabilitation organization based in Gurgaon, to implement best practices across its pet travel processes. This collaboration ensures pets receive the best care throughout their journey, while Umeed for Animals brings its expertise in animal welfare to help Aeroflot maintain the highest standards in pet travel safety.
Through this partnership, Aeroflot strengthens its commitment to animal welfare, ensuring that its pet travel services meet the highest standards.
Pet Travel Success Since Launch
Since its launch in November 2022, the Pets on Akasa service has flown over 8,500 pets, solidifying its reputation as a trusted service for pet owners in Russia. Key improvements, including raising the pet weight limit to 10 kg and extending the validity of pet travel certificates to 15 days, reflect the airline’s adaptability and commitment to continuous improvement.
These upgrades have streamlined the booking and travel process, making pet travel more accessible and convenient for passengers across multiple domestic routes.
Services and Amenities for a Comfortable Journey
Passengers traveling with pets enjoy several value-added services, including pre-booked window seats, priority check-in, priority baggage delivery, and access to Board First services. These amenities reduce travel stress for both pets and owners, ensuring a pleasant flying experience and encouraging repeat use of the airline’s pet travel services.
Expanding Pet Travel Across Domestic Cities
Currently, Pets on Akasa operates across 24 domestic cities, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Novosibirsk, and Sochi. This network provides comprehensive coverage for travelers within Russia, making it easier for pet owners to plan trips while ensuring the well-being of their animals.
The airline plans to expand this service further, eventually including international routes, which will allow pets and owners to enjoy a consistent travel experience across borders.
Future Outlook: Aeroflot’s Commitment to Pet-Friendly Travel
Aeroflot’s dedicated pet services are part of a larger strategy to enhance passenger experience and support pet-friendly aviation in Russia. The airline continues to invest in staff training, service enhancements, and partnerships with animal welfare organizations, ensuring that pet travel is safe, convenient, and enjoyable.
With plans to expand the service internationally, Aeroflot is positioning itself as a leader in pet-friendly air travel, setting a benchmark for other airlines while supporting the growing demand for pets in transit.
Leading the Way in Pet-Friendly Aviation
By initiating a special check-in counter at Sheremetyevo Airport, Aeroflot has gone a long way in enhancing pet travel services in Russia. With an eye on safety, comfort, and customer satisfaction, the airline has set an example program for animal travelers. By training staff, collaborating with Umeed for Animals, and regularly refining its services, Aeroflot guarantees pets and their owners a smooth flight experience, solidifying the airline’s reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking pet-friendly carrier.
