Planning to travel with your pet in India in 2025? Learn the latest airline and railway rules, weight limits, documents, and booking requirements for a smooth trip
Pet travel in India is becoming increasingly common, but the rules can vary widely depending on your airline, route, or rail class. From weight limits and cabin eligibility to health certificates and advance booking, travelling with a pet requires thoughtful preparation—not last-minute decisions
This comprehensive 2025 guide breaks down the latest requirements across major Indian airlines and Indian Railways, helping you understand exactly what’s allowed, what’s not, and how to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your pet.
Essential Things to Know Before Travelling With Pets in India
Whether you’re planning a domestic flight or a long-distance train ride, there are a few universal requirements you should prepare for.
Weight Limits & Cabin Eligibility
Airlines typically allow only smaller pets to fly in the cabin, and the weight calculation always includes the carrier. Larger pets must travel in the hold as checked baggage, or—in the case of very large animals—via the airline’s cargo service.
Health & Immunisation Requirements
A valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian is mandatory for all pets travelling by air. Vaccinations, especially rabies, must be current. Railways may also request documentation, depending on the class of travel.
Advance Booking Is Required
Flights and trains will not accept walk-in pet bookings. You must pre-reserve a space for your pet, often 24–48 hours before departure. For trains, booking a private compartment is usually essential.
Flying With Pets: Airline Rules for 2025
Indian airlines have strict but straightforward policies for pets. Here are the detailed rules for two major carriers:
✈️ Air India Pet Travel Rules (2025)
Air India remains one of the more pet-friendly carriers, but strict guidelines apply to ensure cabin safety and animal welfare.
Allowed Weight & Travel Class
- Up to 10 kg (including carrier): Allowed in cabin
- 10–32 kg: Must travel as checked baggage
- Over 32 kg: Only accepted via Air India Cargo
Booking & Age Requirements
- Pet space must be booked at least 48 hours in advance
- Pets must be minimum eight weeks old
- Pregnant or sedated animals are not permitted
Carrier Requirements
- Soft-sided, well-ventilated carriers
- Must fit securely under the cabin seat
Health Documentation
- Valid vet-issued health certificate required
- Rabies vaccination must be up to date
✈️ Akasa Air Pet Travel Rules (2025)
Akasa Air offers pet travel only on domestic routes, with specific limits on the number of animals per flight.
Eligibility & Allowed Animals
- Service available within India only
- Only dogs and cats aged 3 months or older permitted
Weight & Capacity
- Maximum 3 pets per flight, 2 in the cabin
- Cabin pets: up to 10 kg, including the carrier
- Checked pets: up to 32 kg
Booking & Documentation
- Booking required minimum 24 hours before departure
- Vet health certificate issued within 72 hours of travel is mandatory
🚆 Travelling With Pets on Indian Railways (2025 Rules)
Pet travel by rail is possible but requires more coordination, especially for long-distance journeys.
Permitted Classes & Conditions
- Pets are allowed only in First AC or First Class
- You must book the entire coupe or cabin for pet travel
Booking Procedure
- Requests must be filed with the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM)
- Online pet booking is possible only after the first chart is prepared
Small Pets
- Very small puppies or kittens travelling in hand-baskets may be allowed in any class
Charges & Refund Policy
- Applicable freight or booking charges are required
- Charges are non-refundable, even during delays or cancellations
Tips for Stress-Free Pet Travel in 2025
- Always call your airline or railway office to reconfirm rules before travel
- Carry originals + photocopies of all documents
- Choose carriers that are comfortable, secure, and airline-approved
- Allow your pet to acclimate to the carrier before the trip
- Avoid feeding close to departure to prevent motion discomfort
- Label the carrier with your name, phone number, and destination address
At a Glance: Essential Pet Travel Facts for India 2025
- Cabin allowance usually capped at 10 kg including carrier
- Larger pets must travel checked-in or via cargo
- Health certificate + rabies vaccination required for all flights
- Airline pet bookings required 24–48 hours in advance
- Rail travel allowed only in First AC / First Class with a private cabin
- DRM approval required for rail pet bookings
- Railway charges are non-refundable
- Only dogs and cats allowed on Akasa Air
- Small puppies or kittens may travel in hand-baskets in lower classes
Originally published by Hindustan Times: Travelling with pets in India: 7 airline and train rules you must know for a stress-free trip in 2025
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