Turkish Airlines Pet Travel Policy
TK • Turkey • Star Alliance
Complete guide to flying with your pet on Turkish Airlines. Cabin and cargo rules, crate requirements, breed restrictions, and required documents. Last verified: 2026.
⚠️ Snub-Nosed Breed Restrictions
Turkish Airlines restricts brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds from cargo transport. Affected breeds include: All brachycephalic breeds.
Cargo restrictions apply year-round
Cabin Travel
Cargo / Hold Travel
Crate Requirements (IATA Compliant)
⚠️ Common Rejection Reasons
- • Crate ventilation insufficient
- • Missing documents
- • Weight exceeded
Breed Restrictions
Banned / Restricted Breeds
Turkish regulations
Snub-Nosed (Brachycephalic) Breeds
Cargo restrictions apply year-round
Don't Risk Rejection
Get your crate checked by AI before you get to the airport. Know in minutes if you'll pass Turkish Airlines's inspection.
Documents Required
- Veterinary health certificate
- Rabies vaccination
- Pet passport or equivalent
Official Policy
Always verify with Turkish Airlines directly before travel.
Turkish Airlines Pet PolicyLast verified: 2026
Flying with Your Pet on Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines (TK) is an international carrier and member of the Star Alliance alliance.The airline allows small pets to travel in the cabin under your seat, as well as offering cargo transport for larger animals.
Understanding Turkish Airlines's Pet Policy
Turkish 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, Turkish 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 Turkish 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.