Air France Pet Travel Policy
AF • France • SkyTeam
Complete guide to flying with your pet on Air France. Cabin and cargo rules, crate requirements, breed restrictions, and required documents. Last verified: 2026.
⚠️ Snub-Nosed Breed Restrictions
Air France restricts brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds from cargo transport. Affected breeds include: Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Shih Tzu and others.
Snub-nosed breeds banned from cargo hold due to respiratory risks. Some may travel in cabin if under weight limit.
Cabin Travel
Note: Soft or rigid carrier that fits under seat. Pet must remain inside during entire flight.
Cargo / Hold Travel
Crate Requirements (IATA Compliant)
⚠️ Common Rejection Reasons
- • Crate too small - pet cannot stand upright
- • Missing corner bolts
- • Soft-sided carrier used for cargo
- • Expired health certificate
- • Brachycephalic breed in cargo
Breed Restrictions
Banned / Restricted Breeds
French law prohibits transport of Category 1 dangerous dogs
Snub-Nosed (Brachycephalic) Breeds
Snub-nosed breeds banned from cargo hold due to respiratory risks. Some may travel in cabin if under weight limit.
Don't Risk Rejection
Get your crate checked by AI before you get to the airport. Know in minutes if you'll pass Air France's inspection.
Documents Required
- EU Pet Passport (for EU travel)
- Rabies vaccination certificate (minimum 21 days before travel)
- Health certificate from veterinarian (within 10 days of travel)
- Microchip implantation proof
- Import permit for certain destinations
Official Policy
Always verify with Air France directly before travel.
Air France Pet PolicyLast verified: 2026
Flying with Your Pet on Air France
Air France (AF) is a French carrier and member of the SkyTeam alliance.The airline allows small pets to travel in the cabin under your seat, as well as offering cargo transport for larger animals.
Understanding Air France's Pet Policy
Air France's pet travel policy follows IATA (International Air Transport Association) Live Animals Regulations, with some airline-specific additions. All crates must be IATA-compliant with rigid construction, adequate ventilation, secure metal door, and proper labeling. Pets must have current health certificates and rabies vaccinations.
Brachycephalic Breed Restrictions
Like most major airlines, Air France restricts snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds from cargo transport. These breeds have compromised respiratory systems that make them vulnerable to heat stroke and breathing difficulties in the cargo hold environment. Affected breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and similar flat-faced dogs and cats. If you have a brachycephalic breed, you may only transport them in the cabin (if they meet weight requirements) or consider alternative transport methods.
How to Avoid Rejection at Check-In
The most common reasons for pet crate rejection at Air France check-in include: incorrect crate sizing, plastic clips instead of metal bolts, insufficient ventilation, missing or expired health certificates, and attempting to fly restricted breeds in cargo. Using our AI pre-check service can identify these issues before you arrive at the airport, giving you time to make corrections.
