Turkish Airlines allows cats, dogs, and small birds to travel either in the cabin or cargo hold, depending on their size and weight. Pets under 8 kg can fly in-cabin, while heavier pets travel as cargo Turkish Airlines Pet Policy. Approved carriers and valid health documents are required. Some breeds and young animals are restricted. Advance booking is necessary. Service dogs travel free, while emotional support animals follow specific rules. Fees vary based on pet size and flight route.
Flying with Pets on Turkish Airlines: Rules & Restrictions
For convenience, here is a well-organized table that summarizes Turkish Airlines Pet Policy and limitations:
Category | In-Cabin Pets | Checked Baggage Pets | Cargo Pets |
---|---|---|---|
Allowed Pets | Dogs, cats, small birds (max 8 kg total) | Dogs, cats, birds (8–50 kg total) | Dogs, cats, birds (over 50 kg) |
Carrier Size | Max 23x30x40 cm (9x12x16 in) | IATA-approved, ventilated, and secure | IATA-approved, airline-approved crate |
Weight Limit | Pet + carrier ≤ 8 kg (17.6 lbs) | Pet + carrier 8–50 kg (17.6–110 lbs) | No strict limit (subject to cargo rules) |
Fees | Varies by route (contact airline) | Varies by route (higher than cabin) | Priced per cargo shipment (contact TK Cargo) |
Age Requirements | Min. 10 weeks (domestic), 15 weeks (int’l) | Same as cabin | Same as cabin |
Health Documents | Vet health certificate (10-day validity), rabies vaccine, microchip (if required) | Same as cabin | Same as cabin + additional cargo forms |
Banned Breeds | Aggressive breeds (e.g., Pit Bulls); snub-nosed pets (e.g., Pugs, Persians) may require special approval | Same as cabin | Same as cabin |
Flight Restrictions | Not allowed on some routes (check in advance) | Not allowed in extreme temperatures | Subject to cargo availability |
Turkish Airlines Pet Ticket Prices
In-Cabin Pets
- Price Range: 50–50–200 USD (varies by route)
- Weight Limit: Pet + carrier ≤ 8 kg (17.6 lbs)
- Fee Examples:
- Europe flights: ~€75–€150
- USA/Canada flights: ~100–100–200
- Domestic Turkey flights: ~₺500–₺1000
Checked Baggage Pets
- Price Range: 100–100–400 USD (higher than in-cabin)
- Weight Limit: 8–50 kg (17.6–110 lbs)
- Fee Examples:
- Long-haul flights (e.g., Istanbul to NYC): ~300–300–400
- Middle East/Asia routes: ~150–150–300
Cargo Pets
- Price Range: 500–500–2000+ (depends on size/route)
- Weight Limit: Over 50 kg (110 lbs)
- Fee Factors:
- Destination (e.g., Australia has strict quarantine costs)
- Pet size (crate dimensions)
- Fuel surcharges
Additional Costs
- Health Certificate: 50–50–150 (vet fee)
- Import Permits: Varies by country (e.g., EU: ~€20–€100)
- Carrier/Crate: 30–30–150 (IATA-approved)
Turkish Airlines Pet Policy for Business Class
A comprehensive table that contrasts Turkish Airlines Pet Policy for Business Class and other cabins can be found here:
Category | Business Class | Economy Class | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
In-Cabin Pets Allowed | Yes (same rules apply) | Yes | Max 1 pet per passenger |
Pet Fee | Same as Economy* | Same as Business* | *Fees vary by route (see below) |
Weight Limit | ≤8 kg (17.6 lbs) pet + carrier | ≤8 kg (17.6 lbs) pet + carrier | Carrier max: 23x30x40 cm |
Checked Baggage Pets | Yes (8–50 kg) | Yes (8–50 kg) | Higher fees than in-cabin |
Priority Boarding | Yes (pets board with Business Class) | No (follows general boarding) | Earlier access to overhead bin space |
Seat Space for Carrier | Slightly more legroom | Standard legroom | Must fit under seat |
Pet Relief Areas | Access to airport lounges (varies) | Limited to general terminal areas | IST Airport has pet relief zones |
Document Requirements | Same as Economy (health cert, vaccines) | Same as Business | Strict int’l rules apply |
Turkish Airlines Pet Fee Calculator
This table provides anticipated pet fees for Turkish Airlines on well-traveled itineraries, including Business Class options:
Route Type | In-Cabin Pet Fee (≤8kg) | Checked Pet Fee (8–50kg) | Cargo Pet Fee (50kg+) | Business Class Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic (Turkey) | ₺800–₺1,200 | ₺1,500–₺2,500 | ₺3,000+ | Same fee as Economy |
Europe (e.g., London) | €100–€200 | €250–€400 | €600+ | Early boarding benefit |
USA (e.g., NYC) | 150–150–250 | 350–350–500 | 800–800–2,000 | Lounge access at IST* |
Middle East (e.g., Dubai) | 120–120–200 | 300–300–450 | $700+ | No price difference for Business |
Asia (e.g., Tokyo) | 180–180–300 | 400–400–600 | $1,000+ | Confirm quarantine rules |
Turkish Airlines Pet Vaccination Requirements International
✔ Mandatory for All Pets:
- Rabies vaccination (must be administered at least 21 days before travel but not older than 1 year).
- Microchip (ISO 11784/11785 compliant) for EU destinations.
✔ Additional Vaccines (destination-dependent):
- Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis.
- Cats: Feline Panleukopenia, Calicivirus, Rhinotracheitis.
- Birds: Avian Influenza (for certain countries).
✔ Documentation Rules:
- Health Certificate issued by a licensed vet within 10 days of travel.
- EU Pet Passport required for European routes.
- Import Permits for strict countries (e.g., Australia, Japan).
Turkish Airlines Pet Guidelines for International Travel
✓ Pre-Flight Requirements
- Allowed Pets: Dogs, cats, small birds (1 in-cabin, 2 if same species)
- Age: Min. 15 weeks (int’l) / 10 weeks (domestic)
- Vaccinations: Rabies (≥21 days before flight) + core vaccines
- Health Certificate: Issued by vet within 10 days & USDA-endorsed (if required)
- EU Travel: Microchip + EU Pet Passport
- UK/Australia: Additional treatments/quarantine
✓ Carrier Rules
- In-Cabin: ≤8kg, max 23x30x40cm soft carrier
- Checked/Cargo: IATA-approved hard kennel with labels
✓ Restrictions
- Banned Breeds: Pit Bulls, Tosas (varies by country)
- Snub-Nosed Pets: Bulldogs, Persians (need vet approval)
✓ At Airport
- Arrive 3+ hours early (cargo pets)
- Original documents required (no copies)
✓ After Landing
- Declare pet at customs
- Quarantine if required (e.g., Australia)
Official Source: Turkish Airlines Pet Policy
Emotional Support Dogs and International Travel – Turkish Airlines Pet Policy
- Not classified as service animals – Emotional support dogs follow standard pet travel rules.
- In-Cabin Travel: Must weigh under 8 kg (including carrier).
- Cargo Travel: Heavier dogs must be transported in the cargo hold.
- Documentation: Health certificates, vaccinations, and microchip identification may be required.
- Destination Rules: Some countries impose quarantine periods or breed restrictions.
- Reservations: Must be made at least six hours before departure.
Visit us: Turkish Airlines Wheelchair Assistance
Travel Restrictions for Pets
Different countries and airlines have strict pet travel regulations. Many require vaccinations, health certificates, and microchips. Some impose quarantine periods or ban certain breeds. Airlines set size and weight limits for in-cabin pets, while larger ones travel in cargo. Emotional support animals face restrictions, unlike service animals. Check destination-specific rules before traveling.
Pet Safety
- Here are some key tips for pet safety during travel:
- Ensure your pet is healthy and fit for travel; consult a vet if needed.
- Use a well-ventilated, secure carrier that meets airline requirements.
- Keep your pet hydrated but avoid overfeeding before the journey.
- Label the carrier with your contact information and “Live Animal” stickers.
- Familiarize your pet with the carrier before the trip to reduce stress.
- Avoid sedatives unless prescribed by a vet, as they can affect breathing.
- Monitor temperature and ventilation during the journey.
Conclusion
When traveling with pets, research and preparation are key. Airlines and countries have different rules and restrictions, including pet size, breed bans, health documentation, and quarantine requirements. Choosing a safe, comfortable carrier, keeping your pet calm and hydrated, and checking airline policies in advance ensure a smooth journey. Always prioritize your pet’s well-being and safety while traveling
FAQs on Turkish Airlines Pet Policy
In-cabin: Small dogs, cats, and birds (subject to restrictions).
Checked baggage/cargo: Larger dogs, cats, and other pets (based on breed and size)
Yes, aggressive breeds (e.g., Pit Bulls, Staffordshire Terriers) and snub-nosed breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Persians) may face restrictions due to health risks.
Weight: Pet + carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
Carrier dimensions: Max 23 x 30 x 40 cm (9 x 12 x 16 in), soft-sided only.
Only small dogs, cats, and birds meeting size/weight limits are allowed in the cabin.
Valid health certificate (issued within 10 days of travel).
Vaccination records (rabies required for most destinations).
Import/export permits (if applicable).
Yes, pets may not be accepted if temperatures at departure/arrival exceed 84°F (29°C) or fall below 20°F (-7°C).