KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Pet Travel Policy
KL • Netherlands • SkyTeam
Complete guide to flying with your pet on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Cabin and cargo rules, crate requirements, breed restrictions, and required documents. Last verified: 2026.
⚠️ Snub-Nosed Breed Restrictions
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines restricts brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds from cargo transport. Affected breeds include: Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Shih Tzu and others.
Cargo restrictions apply. Cabin may be possible.
Cabin Travel
Cargo / Hold Travel
Crate Requirements (IATA Compliant)
⚠️ Common Rejection Reasons
Breed Restrictions
Banned / Restricted Breeds
Dutch dangerous dog regulations
Snub-Nosed (Brachycephalic) Breeds
Cargo restrictions apply. Cabin may be possible.
Don't Risk Rejection
Get your crate checked by AI before you get to the airport. Know in minutes if you'll pass KLM Royal Dutch Airlines's inspection.
Documents Required
- EU Pet Passport
- Rabies vaccination
- Health certificate
- Microchip proof
Official Policy
Always verify with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines directly before travel.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Pet PolicyLast verified: 2026
Flying with Your Pet on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL) is an international 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 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines's Pet Policy
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines'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, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines 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 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines 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.