klm pet policy
KLM Airlines
pet policy

KLM Pet Policy - Complete Guide

The Airlines Pet Policy of KLM has certain rules and regulations for pet transportation and it varies depending on the destination and country the KLM flight is flying. On some aircraft of KLM, pets are restricted or limited, where they are flying. According to KLM pet policy, pets can fly in a cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo, depending upon the size of the pet and the destination it is flying.

The KLM pet policy also includes some special rules imposed on service animals or trained animals who are officially working. Moreover, imposed some rules on trained animals who are working in rescue teams or assisting disabled passengers.

KLM Pet Policy In Short Points

Below we have provided the in-short information about the KLM pet travel policy you can check for a complete overview.

Reservation and Pre-travel Requirements:

  • Make a reservation for your pet at least 48 hours prior to departure.
  • Obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
  • Check if your destination country requires any specific vaccinations or quarantine procedures.

Pet Carrier Specifications:

  • The pet carrier must be IATA-approved and escape-proof.
  • Dimensions for in-cabin carriers: 46 x 28 x 24 cm (18 x 11 x 9 inches)
  • Dimensions for hold carriers: Varies depending on the pet's size and species.
  • Ensure proper ventilation and a comfortable resting area inside the carrier.

Pet Eligibility and Restrictions:

  • Only cats and dogs are permitted as pets on KLM flights.
  • Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dog breeds may face restrictions due to respiratory concerns.
  • Emotional support animals (ESAs) are not accepted unless they meet airline regulations.

KLM Pet In Cabin Guidelines:

  • One cat or dog is allowed in the cabin per passenger.
  • The pet must remain inside the carrier throughout the flight, except for brief restroom breaks.
  • The carrier must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.

Hold Pet Travel Guidelines:

  • Up to three pets can travel in the hold per passenger.
  • Pets must be at least three months old to travel in the hold.
  • Pets traveling in the hold must be acclimated to their carrier beforehand.

Additional Considerations:

  • Inform the cabin crew if your pet is traveling with you.
  • Keep your pet's identification tags and contact information up-to-date.
  • Provide your pet with familiar toys or bedding to reduce anxiety during the journey.

Fee Structure:

  • Fees for pet travel vary depending on the pet's size, weight, and destination.
  • KLM Pet in cabin fees are typically higher than hold pet fees.
  • Fees are payable at the time of reservation.

Key Note: It is important to make your Pet Booking in advance by speaking to an agent at KLM customer service 1 (800) 618-0104. Your pet reservation should be done at least 48 hours before the flight departure. If you missed registering your pet for travel, then you might not be allowed to board with your pet.

KLM Pet in Cabin Policy

As per KLM in cabin pet policy, small cats and dogs can travel in economy class on all KLM flights. However, the airline also allows pets to travel in business class within Europe only. Here are some of the rules and restrictions that are imposed for pet travel, which include:

  • KLM Airlines accepts cats and dogs on the flight.
  • Pets must be at least 15 weeks old to travel in the cabin.
  • The airline only permits pets, when they are fully vaccinated.
  • KLM Pet Policy in Cabin states that the total weight of the pet and carrier should be less than 18 lbs.
  • KLM pet carrier dimensions should not exceed 46 (length) x 28 (width) x 24 (height) in centimeters.
  • Pets must be fully vaccinated against all required diseases.
  • The carrier should be designed in such a way that pets can stay back comfortably. They must be able to stand up and lie down comfortably.
  • One cat or dog is allowed per passenger in the cabin.
  • Service dogs are also allowed to travel in KLM on all flights.

KLM Pet Carrier Requirements For In-Cabin Travel

According to the pet policy of KLM, there is a specific carrier guideline under which the dimension of the carrier is mentioned. Pet owners must follow the guidelines to bring the accurate pet carrier as recommended by KLM cabin pet policy.

Here is a brief about the carrier guidelines:

  • The carrier size should not exceed 46cm x 28cm x 24cm (18 x 11 x 9 inches) (L x W x H).
  • The combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 8 kg (18 lbs).
  • The carrier must have proper ventilation and enough room for the pet to sit, stand, lie down, and turn around.
  • The total weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed more than 18lb/8kg.
  • The carrier must get fit under the seat.
  • Pet owners are not allowed to occupy the exit row seats

Restrictions For KLM Pet In Cabin Travel

Here are the restrictions for pets traveling in the cabin on KLM flights:

  • As per KLM pet policy international flights, pets are not allowed to travel in business class cabins on intercontinental routes. Due to inadequate under-seat space, KLM flights are unable to permit pets to fly.
  • Pet should be at least 70 days (10 weeks) old on the day of travel

KLM Pet Travel Policy - Pets in the Hold

The airline allows pets to travel as checked baggage in the hold. But before transporting your pets in the hold, you must go through some important things to keep in mind.

  • Pets and carriers the combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 165lb/75kg.
  • The pet traveling as checked baggage must be at least 70 days (10 weeks) old.
  • The carrier must comply with IATA rules.
  • Certain brachycephalic (short-nosed) dog breeds may be restricted due to respiratory concerns.
  • Pets must be in good health and physically fit for air travel.
  • As per KLM pet travel policy 2 comparable (in size) and compatible adult animals can share the same carrier, however, the weight of each animal should be up to 30 lb/14 kg.
  • The airline also enables passengers to carry 3 animals from the same litter with few conditions i.e. they must be less than 6 months old and each animal’s weight does not exceed 30 lb/14 kg.

KLM Pet Policy – Restrictions For Pet Traveling On Hold

Specific restrictions in place for KLM pets in hold to ensure the well-being and safety of both animals and passengers.

  • Pets are not allowed to feed food or water when traveling as checked baggage
  • Most of the snub-nosed breeds (such as Pekinese/Persian cats and boxers) are not considered as the right fit for checked baggage, however, they can travel as cargo.
  • Emotional support animals (ESAs) are not accepted in the hold.
  • Some of the dog breeds that can only travel in the aircraft include French and English bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston terriers.
  • There are a few aircraft under which pets cannot travel as checked baggage includes KLM’s Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft, Embraer 175 and 190 aircraft if the flights are 2 hours or more.
  • KLM does not recommend transporting pets in the hold during extreme weather conditions, especially during hot or cold temperatures.

KLM Pet Carrier Requirements for In-Hold

There is a shared guideline for carrier requirements when pets are traveling in the hold (as checked baggage). Here are some of the kennel requirements that pet owners must keep in mind while making the purchase of a pet carrier for KLM in-hold travels.

  • The pet carrier must be made of a rigid plastic or fiberglass shell. However, carriers made of other materials including wood, metal, or welded wire are not allowed by the airline.
  • Ensure the carrier has proper ventilation and a comfortable resting area inside the carrier
  • The wheels of the carrier must be taped or removed
  • The carrier’s part must be fastened together through the bolts, any other kinds of locks are not allowed.
  • The carrier must be lined with absorbent material to prevent accidents.
  • The pet carrier must have enough room for the pet to sit, stand, lie down, and turn around comfortably.
  • The pet carrier must have either 2 fixed food bowls or 1 fixed food bowl having 2 compartments: one for food and one for water.
  • KLM animal policy says to keep a label marked on the pet’s carrier, which includes the name of the pet and feeding instructions.

KLM Pet Cargo Policy

KLM Pet Cargo Policy also offers pets to travel as cargo, hence here are some major highlights of the pet cargo service. KLM pet policy allows more than 3 pets to travel together as cargo on KLM.

  • Only cats and dogs are permitted as pets in the cargo.
  • Pets must be fully vaccinated against all required diseases.
  • KLM flying with pets says that the total weight of the carrier and pet must not exceed more than 165lb/75kg.
  • Emotional support animals (ESAs) are not accepted in the cargo.
  • The maximum dimensions for pet carriers in the cargo vary depending on the pet's size and species. For general reference, the maximum dimensions are 122 x 81 x 89 cm (48 x 32 x 35 inches) on KLM flights and 102 x 69 x 76 cm (40 x 27 x 30 inches) on KLM Cityhopper flights operated with Embraer aircraft.
  • Pet and pet owners must travel in different flights
  • Pets must be traveling to a destination, where they are being transported as cargo.

Restrictions to KLM Pet Cargo Travel

KLM also have some restrictions for pets to travel as cargo:

  • No other animals can travel in KLM cargo except dogs and cats.
  • Pets should be fully vaccinated with documentation.
  • ESA (Emotional Support Animals) are not allowed in cargo.
  • Pet must be at least 3 months old to travel in cargo.
  • The pet should be healthy and fit to travel on flights.
  • Your pet should not be aggressive and harmful to agents.

It is important to note that these restrictions are subject to change without notice. Always check with KLM Airlines for the latest updates and requirements before making any travel plans with your pet.

KLM Pet Carrier Requirements To Travel In Cargo

To make your pet travel in cargo you must have to look into these requirements for the pet carrier:

  • Pet carriers must be IATA-approved and escape-proof.
  • Your dog should be able to move in a carrier like sit, stand, and lie down easily.
  • The carrier must have proper ventilation to allow fresh air to circulate inside.
  • The carrier must be lined with absorbent material to prevent accidents.
  • KLM pet carrier dimensions for cargo should not exceed 122 x 81 x 89 cm (48 x 32 x 35 inches).
  • Make sure the carrier is securely fastened to prevent movement during transport.

It is always advisable to check with KLM pet policy for the latest updates and requirements regarding pet carrier specifications before making any travel plans with your pet.

Health Certificates Required For KLM Pet Travel

The pet policy advises getting important travel documents and vaccinations in advance to travel on KLM flights.

  • Pet owners are required to carry original documents along with them.
  • It is important to mark a label on the carrier, which should include the name of the pet and feeding instructions.
  • Pets traveling to countries with a high risk of rabies, a valid rabies vaccination certificate will be required.
  • For pets traveling to certain countries outside the EU, an import permit may be required.
  • The carrier must have the tag stating the pet owner’s name, phone number, and address. It keeps the KLM staff well informed about the pet and pet owners.
  • Depending on the pet's species and destination country, additional documentation may be required, such as a certificate of origin or a certificate of freedom from certain diseases.

It is essential to check with the embassy or consulate of your destination country for the exact documentation requirements for your pet.

Important Travel Document Required

You may also need some other documents depending on the country you are traveling in. So it is always good to carry these important documents when flying with your pet on KLM flights.

  • Pet Passport (Depends upon the destination, a pet is traveling to)
  • Health certificates and vaccination certificates are required to understand that the pet is fit to travel in air.
  • Some countries also ask to show the import permit for pet transportation.
  • To know more about pet travel documents, you must get in touch with the embassy at 1 (800) 618-0104. The team will assist you. Or you can go through some of the official websites including
  • To/from/within the European Union: European Commission.
  • Between other countries: IATA
  • To the United Kingdom: Gov.UK

KLM Pet Fee

KKLM charges a fee for traveling with pets on their flights. The fee depends on various factors, including the size of the pet, the destination, and the type of flight. Here is a general overview of the KLM pet fee:

In-Cabin KLM Pet Travel Fee

If your pet is small enough to travel in the cabin with you, the fee will be charged per flight, per pet carrier. The fee for cabin travel on KLM is typically around 55-100 euros, depending on the destination.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the in-cabin fees:

  • Cats and small dogs (up to 8 kg/18 lbs): €60 (approximately $62)
  • Medium dogs (up to 14 kg/31 lbs): €120 (approximately $125)
  • Large dogs (up to 20 kg/44 lbs): €180 (approximately $187)

Cargo Travel Fee According To KLM Pet Policy

If your pet is too large to travel in the cabin and must be transported as cargo, the fee will depend on the size and weight of your pet and the destination. The fee for cargo travel can range from 75 to 400 EUR.

Here is the approximate breakdown of the fee:

  • Small pets (up to 15 kg/33 lbs): €150 (approximately $157)
  • Medium pets (up to 32 kg/70 lbs): €250 (approximately $262)
  • Large pets (up to 45 kg/100 lbs): €350 (approximately $368)

KLM Hold Pet Fee

Hold pet fees are typically lower than in-cabin pet fees. The exact amount of the pet fee varies depending on the pet's size, weight, and destination.

Here is a table of hold pet fees for different pet sizes and destinations:

  • Small pets (up to 15 kg/33 lbs): €100 (approximately $105)
  • Medium pets (up to 32 kg/70 lbs): €175 (approximately $183)
  • Large pets (up to 45 kg/100 lbs): €250 (approximately $262)

Pet parents must be aware that the fees mentioned above are subject to change and may vary depending on the specific flight and destination.

Additionally, KLM may have different fees for certain types of pets, such as service animals or emotional support animals. Therefore, it's always best to check with KLM for the latest and most accurate information on pet fees.

KLM Dog Policy For Service & ESA

KLM allows passengers to bring dogs on board their flights, under certain restrictions and requirements.

  • Dogs must be small enough to fit comfortably in a carrier that can be placed under the seat in front of you and the maximum weight of the dog and carrier combined should not exceed 8 kg.
  • The dog must be at least 10 weeks old and fully weaned.
  • You must have the necessary vaccinations and health certificates required by the country of origin, destination, and any countries they will transit through.
  • Passengers must contact KLM in advance to make arrangements for their dog and there may be additional fees for pet travel.
  • The pet carrier must meet certain requirements and must be placed under the seat in front of you for the entire flight.
  • The dog must remain inside the carrier at all times during the flight.

It is always recommended to check with KLM for the latest policies and requirements before booking a flight with your dog.

KLM pet policy enables customers to understand every minor detail about dog travel in a cabin and cargo. Right from their weight, and carrier, to the other restrictions, everything is mentioned in the KLM dog policy. Here is a small brief about the same,

Assistance Dogs KLM Travel

  • KLM allows dogs to travel assistance dogs free in the cabin
  • Pet handlers must notify KLM at least 48 hours before departure
  • Some of the countries have travel restrictions, so make sure to carry the valid passport and documents.

Guide Dogs KLM Travel

  • KLM dogs in cabin policy allows guide dogs to travel in a cabin free of charge
  • Guide dog handlers are requested to fill out an application and send it to KLM Cares. You must bring a copy of it to the airport.

Emotional Support Dogs

  • As per KLM emotional support animal policy, dogs can travel in a cabin i.e. free of cost
  • Emotional support dogs can travel in the cabin only on direct flights flying to/from the US.
  • Emotional support dogs below 4 months are not allowed to travel with KLM
  • The Dog handler is requested to download and fill out an application form signing and declaring the mental health of the dog.
  • Handlers are advised to submit both application forms along with a signed declaration to KLM Cares.
  • You must bring all the valid documents along with the copies of the application and declaration form to the airport
  • For more details get in touch with the KLM pet reservation at +1 (800) 618-0104.

Guidelines to KLM Pet Travel Booking

If you are planning to travel on KLM with your pet, you must contact customer service professionals in advance to make arrangements for your pet. The following steps will guide you through the KLM pet travel booking process:

  • Consult KLM: You can speak to an agent at KLM via Helpline Number or Email to make arrangements for your pet. You can find the contact information on the KLM official website.
  • Provide Pet Information: You will need to provide KLM with information about your pet, including its breed, size, weight, and age. You will also need to provide documentation of your pet's vaccinations and health certificates.
  • Book Your Flight: Once you have made arrangements for your pet, you can book your KLM flight. It is recommended to book your flight early, as only a limited number of pets are allowed on each flight.
  • Pay Pet Fees: There may be additional fees for KLM pet travel, which will depend on the destination and the size of your pet. You will be informed of the fees during the booking process.
  • Get Your Pet Ready for Travel: You will need to prepare your pet for travel by ensuring it is comfortable in its carrier, has enough food and water for the duration of the flight, and has any necessary medications.

There are times when KLM pet travel policy may change, and it is always best to check with the airline for the latest policies and requirements before booking a flight with your pet.

Complete Requirements Information on KLM Pet Policy

Category In Cabin In Hold As Cargo
Pets Allowed Cats, dogs Cats, dogs Cats, dogs
Number of Pets 1 per passenger Up to 3 per passenger No limit specified
Age Limit 15 weeks 10 weeks 3 months
Carrier Requirements Soft-sided Max dimensions: 46 x 28 x 24 cm Max weight (pet + carrier): 8 kg Hard-sided IATA compliant Size varies by pet IATA compliant Varies by pet size/species
Pet Size/Weight Limit Combined weight of pet + carrier up to 8 kg Up to 45 kg Up to 75 kg
Routes Allowed All routes All routes Cargo routes only
Cabin Class Allowance Economy only (Europe destinations - business) Hold only Cargo only
Notable Restrictions Brachycephalic breeds Import regulations Feeding/watering restrictions Certain breeds not allowed ESAs not allowed Pet and owner separated
Fees €55-100 per carrier per flight €100-250 based on pet size €150-400 based on pet size
Advance Booking Required? Yes, 48 hours Yes, 48 hours Yes
Proof of Health/Vaccinations Yes Yes Yes

KLM Pet Reservations Guidelines

Pet parents who are planning to travel with their pet on KLM, will need to make a reservation for their pet. You can do this by speaking to KLM customer service either by telephone or email.

When making your reservation, you will need to provide information about your pet, including its breed, size, weight, and age. You will also need to provide documentation of your pet's vaccinations and health certificates.

Once you have made arrangements for your pet's travel, you can book your flight with KLM either online or by contacting KLM customer service. Keep in mind that there is a limit on the number of pets that can be carried on each flight, so it's important to make your reservation as soon as possible.

There may be additional fees for pet travel on KLM, depending on the destination and the size of your pet. The fee for cabin travel on KLM is typically around 55-100 euros per flight, per pet carrier, while the fee for cargo travel can range from a few hundred euros to over a thousand euros.

As KLM's pet reservation policy may change, it's always best to check with the airline for the latest policies and requirements before booking a flight with your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Ans. Yes, KLM allows pets to travel in a cabin with their owners after fulfilling a few basic requirements such as weight, documentation, & carrier rules.

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Ans.To add a dog to your KLM booking just contact KLM's telephone reservations line available in your country.

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Ans. According to KLM official website (www.klm.com), you can take up to 3 pets in the hold. They can even travel in the same carriage if each of them is not more than 14 kg.

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Ans. To know about the major requirements of pet traveling you can go through the KLM pet policy. However, pets can travel in the cabin, as checked baggage (in the hold), or as cargo with certain rules and regulations. Passengers need to make a pet reservation at least 48 hours in advance, either online, or by phone, as KLM accepts only a few pets in the airline. As Check-in formalities may take a lot of time, it is advised to take time, so be there at the airport at least 3 hours in advance.

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Ans.

  • You must bring a health certificate signed by a veterinary doctor.
  • You must bring a mental health certificate if traveling with an emotional support dog.
  • Rabies vaccination must be done at least 30 days prior to the departure date.

To know more about it, you can check with the - To/from/within the European Union: European Commission, Between other countries: IATA, and To the United Kingdom: Gov.UK

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Ans. Yes, it’s been 90 years since KLM began flying with pets, and after merging with Air France in 2004, the pet traveling program has expanded more ground than ever.

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Ans. Well, according to the KLM pet policy, you are just not allowed to take your pet out of the carrier. However, pet owners can easily meet all travel requirements that KLM asks for.

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Ans. KLM does not allow pets to fly in the cabin, when the flight is flying for a long distance including the UK, Hong Kong, Dubai, or Australia.

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Ans. It can cost you between EUR 75 to EUR 400 per one-way, to bring their pets to travel from one place to another.

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Ans. Yes, you can book your dog travel with KLM online. However, you will need to contact KLM's Customer Contact Center to make arrangements for your pet's travel. KLM does not allow passengers to book pet travel online.

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Ans. To reserve a spot for your dog on a KLM flight, you will need to contact KLM Customer Contact Center. It is recommended that you do this as soon as possible, as KLM has limited space available for pet travel on each flight.

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Ans. If you need to make changes to KLM pet booking, you should contact the airline as soon as possible. Depending on the KLM pet policy rules, there may be fees associated with making changes to your pet travel booking. It is best to check with the airline directly to determine their policies regarding changes to KLM pet travel booking.

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Ans. Your pet carrier must typically be soft-sided and fit under the seat in front of you. It should have enough space for your pet to move freely and a ventilation window as well.

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