The first rule: the airline decides
Every airline sets its own pet policy: whether pets fly in the cabin or the hold, the maximum carrier dimensions and total weight it accepts, how many pets one passenger may bring, and which routes and aircraft are eligible. These rules change, and they differ between airlines on the same route. No carrier is "airline approved" in the abstract — a point Hellomoon is careful about: we do not claim airline certification for any product. The only reliable check is the airline's current published policy for the exact flight being booked.
Cabin vs hold
- In the cabin — small pets in a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat in front. Space under seats is tight and varies by aircraft, which is why cabin carrier dimensions are the most constrained.
- In the hold — larger pets travel in a rigid crate in the cargo area, under separate size, construction and booking rules.
What airlines generally require
While numbers differ, the recurring requirements are consistent: the pet must be able to stand, turn and lie naturally; the carrier must be secure, ventilated and leak-proof in design; and the booking must be made in advance, since cabin pet places are limited per flight. Advise customers to confirm dimensions, weight limits and fees with the airline before travelling — and to measure their carrier, not trust the label.
Stocking for travel demand
For retailers, the opportunity is a travel corner: cabin-sized soft carriers as the headline, with rigid options and sizes clearly labelled. The pet carriers family on this site — including cat carriers, dog carriers and the backpack carrier guide — is presented at category level; when you enquire, tell us if airline-oriented styles are your focus and we will confirm the relevant dimensions per item on quotation.
A closing caution
Rules for international flights add destination-country health and documentation requirements on top of airline policy. Always direct customers to both the airline and the destination authority before they travel.