Aer Lingus Pet Travel Policy: Requirements, Costs, and Rules
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If you are planning a trip with your four-legged best friend, you probably have a million questions. Can they sit with me? How much does it cost? Is it safe? When it comes to the Aer Lingus Pet Policy, the rules are a bit different than some other airlines, but once you understand the rhythm, it is a very manageable process.
Contact Flights Counsel at +1 (877) 337-0761 for quick help with flight bookings, ticket changes,Pet Policy, cancellations, and travel support today
Whether you are moving across the Atlantic or just popping over to the UK for a holiday, here is everything you need to know about flying with pets on Aer Lingus in 2026.
The Basics: Can My Pet Fly in the Cabin?
One of the most important things to know right away is that Aer Lingus does not allow pets in the passenger cabin on any flight.
For all other household pets (cats, dogs, and sometimes rabbits), the journey happens in the aircraft hold. While it might sound scary to have your pet in "cargo," Aer Lingus uses temperature-controlled, pressurized compartments designed specifically for live animals. Most pets actually settle down and sleep once it gets dark and quiet down there!
How to Book: It’s Not Like Booking a Suitcase
You cannot simply add a pet to your booking on the website like you would a checked bag. The process depends entirely on where you are going.
1. Flights Within Europe (Ireland & UK)
If you are flying between Ireland and the UK or within Europe, your pet must be booked through a freight forwarder.
2. Transatlantic Flights (USA & Canada)
If you are flying from North America to Ireland, you can often book your pet as excess baggage.
Note: Pets are generally not accepted as excess baggage on flights to or from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle; these must go through IAG Cargo.
Pro Tip: Always book your pet at least 30 days in advance. Space for animals is strictly limited, and it’s first-come, first-served!
Costs: What Will You Pay?
The price of taking your pet along isn't a flat fee—it depends on the weight of your pet and the size of the crate.
Regional/European Flights: Expect to pay anywhere from €60 to €160 if booked through cargo agents.
Transatlantic Flights: Fees usually range between €150 and €250 ($160–$275) per leg of the journey when booked as excess baggage.
Cargo Shipments: If your pet is very large (over 64kg including the crate), the price will be calculated based on "volumetric weight," which can be significantly higher.
Rules and Requirements for a Smooth Trip
Aer Lingus is very strict about safety, and they will refuse to board a pet if the requirements aren't met perfectly.
1. Age and Health
Your pet must be at least 15 weeks old.
You must provide a health certificate from a vet issued within 10 days of travel.
For EU travel, a Pet Passport with up-to-date rabies vaccinations is mandatory.
2. Breed Restrictions (The "No-Fly" List)
For the safety of the animals, Aer Lingus does not fly snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds in the hold.
Dogs: Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, Mastiffs, and Shih Tzus.
Cats: Persian and Exotic Shorthairs.
Dangerous Breeds: Pitbulls, Rottweilers, and Akitas are also generally restricted.
Contact Flights Counsel at +1 (877) 337-0761 for quick help with flight bookings, ticket changes,Pet Policy, cancellations, and travel support today
3. The Crate (Their Home in the Sky)
Your crate must be IATA-approved.
It must be sturdy (plastic or metal, no wooden crates).
The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
It must have a fixed water bowl that can be filled from the outside.
The floor must be leak-proof and covered with absorbent material (like a puppy pad).
Helpful Tips for Pet Parents
Skip the Sedation: Most vets and the airline recommend not sedating your pet. It can affect their ability to regulate body temperature and heart rate at high altitudes.
The Scent of Home: Place a t-shirt you’ve recently worn inside the crate.
Your scent will help keep them calm during the flight. Check the Weather: If the temperature at your departure or arrival airport is over 27°C (80°F) or under -7°C (20°F), the airline may cancel the pet's travel for their safety.
The A321neo LR Factor: If your flight is on an Airbus A321neo LR aircraft, be aware that these planes do not have ventilated holds, so pets cannot fly on these specific aircraft.
Always double-check your plane type!
Final Checklist
Before you head to the airport, make sure you have:
Confirmed your pet's reservation with IAG Cargo or Aer Lingus.
An IATA-compliant crate with plenty of ventilation.
The original Pet Passport and Vet Health Certificate.
A sturdy leash (but remember, the leash stays outside or on top of the crate during the flight).
Traveling with a pet requires a bit of extra homework, but seeing your furry friend wagging their tail at the arrivals hall in Dublin makes it all worth it.
Contact Flights Counsel at +1 (877) 337-0761 for quick help with flight bookings, ticket changes,Pet Policy, cancellations, and travel support today
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