Why Airlines Reject Pet Crates: The Top 10 Reasons
Every day, pet owners arrive at airport check-in counters only to face the devastating news: their pet's crate has been rejected. The flight leaves in hours, and there's no quick fix. Understanding why airlines reject crates - and how to prevent it - can save you from this nightmare scenario.
Source: IATA Pet Container Requirements
1. Crate Too Small
A crate that doesn't meet IATA sizing requirements will not be accepted. Your pet must be able to:
Source: IATA Pet Container Requirements (https://www.iata.org/contentassets/b0016da92c86449f850fe9560827bbea/pet-container-requirements.pdf)
2. Plastic Clips Instead of Metal Bolts
Many crates come with plastic clips securing the top and bottom shell. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE FOR CARGO.
IATA requires the top and bottom halves of plastic containers to be bolted together. Plastic clips alone are not sufficient. Metal bolts are recommended in every hole.
SOLUTION: Replace or supplement the plastic clips with metal nuts and bolts through the existing holes.
Source: IATA Pet Container Requirements (https://www.iata.org/contentassets/b0016da92c86449f850fe9560827bbea/pet-container-requirements.pdf)
3. Soft-Sided Carrier for Cargo
Soft-sided carriers are ONLY acceptable for cabin travel. Using a fabric carrier for checked baggage/cargo will result in immediate rejection.
CARGO REQUIRES:
The container must protect the animal if other cargo shifts during turbulence.
4. Inadequate Ventilation
IATA requires ventilation openings on ALL FOUR sides of the container, with a total ventilated area of at least 16% of the surface of the four sides. Openings on the sides and back are placed over the upper two-thirds of the container.
CHECK FOR:
Source: IATA Pet Container Requirements (https://www.iata.org/contentassets/b0016da92c86449f850fe9560827bbea/pet-container-requirements.pdf)
5. Broken or Insecure Door
The door is the most critical security feature. Rejection triggers include:
TEST: Can you lift the crate by the door without it opening? If not, it's not secure enough.
6. No Food/Water Bowls
For flights over 4 hours (or any international flight), attached food and water bowls are REQUIRED.
Requirements:
Many airlines provide bowls at check-in, but don't count on it. Bring your own.
7. Missing Labels and Documentation
Required labels that MUST be on the crate:
Missing labels = delayed boarding while you scramble to find a pen.
8. Wheels Still Attached
If your crate has wheels, they MUST be removed or immobilized before check-in.
Why? Rolling crates can:
Remove wheels completely or secure them with heavy tape.
9. Absorbent Bedding Missing or Inadequate
The crate floor needs:
Bare plastic floors are rejected because:
10. Brachycephalic Breed in Cargo
Even with a perfect crate, if you're flying a snub-nosed breed in cargo, you'll be rejected.
BANNED FROM CARGO (Most Airlines):
These breeds have respiratory issues that make cargo holds dangerous. Cabin only.
Conclusion
Check your crate against the IATA requirements before you get to the airport: size formula, bolts, ventilation on four sides, door, bowls. PetFlyCheck is an independent service, not affiliated with IATA or any airline.
Check Your Crate Before You Fly
Enter your pet's measurements and upload 3 crate photos. We apply the IATA size formula and check what is visible: bolts, door, ventilation on four sides, bowls. Independent service, not affiliated with IATA or any airline.
Related Guides
IATA Pet Crate Requirements: The Full Checklist
IATA publishes the container requirements that airlines following IATA rules use for dogs and cats travelling in the hold. Here is every rule in plain English, with the official source.
IATA crate size calculator for dogs and cats
Airlines that follow IATA rules require a crate big enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down naturally. IATA sets this out as a simple formula based on four measurements of your pet. Enter them below to see the minimum inner dimensions your crate needs. It's free, and nothing is sent to us unless you choose to continue to a full check. PetFlyCheck is independent and not affiliated with IATA.
Metal Bolts vs Plastic Clips: Why Your Crate Will Be Rejected
You bought an expensive 'airline approved' crate. You measured your pet correctly. You have all the documents. But for cargo, IATA requires the two halves of a plastic crate to be bolted together: plastic clips alone are not sufficient.