KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Pet Policy

A few words about KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Pet Policy

  • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines allows travelers to fly with small pets in the cabin and transport larger animals as cargo on KLM operated flights within Europe and intercontinentally. KLM has guidelines regarding carrier sizes, documents, fees and restrictions to ensure smooth pet travel.

Key Details of KLM's Pet Policy

  • KLM permits small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin in an approved carrier for a fee. Advance reservations are required as space is limited. Larger pets must travel as checked cargo in compliant kennels. Owners must comply with all origin and destination regulations and provide health certificates. Service animals fly free in the cabin with documentation. Pet relief areas are available at some KLM hub airports.

Transporting Small Pets in the Cabin with KLM

  • KLM allows small dogs and cats to fly in the main cabin in an approved soft-sided or hard-sided carrier that fits under the seat. Carriers must have accessible doors, proper ventilation and closures. Advance payment of the applicable cabin pet fee is required. Pets must remain in the carrier under the owner's seat for the entire flight without disturbing others. KLM limits cabin pets to 3 per flight in Economy, 5 in Business and 8 in first class. Certain snub-nosed breeds are prohibited in the cabin. Minimum pet age is 8 weeks and all standard vaccinations are required. Owners must comply with all destination entry requirements. Recommended in-cabin comforts include ID tag, water and absorbent lining.

Transporting Larger Pets as Cargo with KLM

  • Larger dogs, cats and most other common household pets must travel as accompanied cargo in KLM compliant kennels. Use an IATA-approved rigid plastic or fiberglass kennel properly secured and labeled indicating upright animal positioning. Allow enough room for pets to stand, turn and lie down. Reservations must be made at least 48 hours before flight. The fee varies based on route and kennel size. Pets are transported in pressurized climate-controlled holds. Allow time for exercise and relief between connections. Certain restrictions and weather conditions can prevent cargo pet transport.

Health Certificates and Documents Required

  • A veterinary health certificate is mandatory for all pets traveling as cargo with KLM and recommended for cabin pets. The certificate must be issued by a licensed vet within 10 days of travel and document up-to-date rabies and routine vaccinations. For destinations with specific entry requirements, the corresponding tests, immunizations and documents must be presented. Failure to produce required veterinary documentation upon request can result in denied transport.

Restrictions on Pets Traveling with KLM

  • Prohibited dog breeds are not allowed to fly as cargo or in-cabin pets with KLM, including Pit Bulls, Bull Terriers, Tosa Inus, and Canario Presa dogs. Snub-nosed dog and cat breeds cannot fly in the cabin. Pregnant, unweaned and ill pets may be denied transport. Pets under 12 weeks old are prohibited. KLM does not allow transport of animals intended for research, fighting or commercial purposes. Certain other restrictions may apply per local regulations.

Tips for Smooth Pet Travel with KLM

  • Review KLM's pet policy details fully to ensure compliance.
  • Use an airline approved carrier in good condition with proper interior bedding and labels.
  • Reserve well in advance as cabin and cargo pet spots are limited.
  • Affix ID tag inside carrier with your contact details.
  • Have backup carrier options in case your pet is too big for the cabin.
  • Obtain correct veterinary health certificates documenting vaccinations.
  • Carry all documents and certificates and have these ready at check-in.
  • Request priority kennel return for minimal pet waiting upon arrival.
  • For long journeys, pack food, water and comfort items in carrier.
  • Take non-stop flights where possible to lower risk of errors impacting pets.

KLM's Dog Policy

  • KLM has specific policies regarding transporting dogs as carry-on pets or accompanied cargo:
  • In-Cabin Dogs
  • Use an approved soft carrier that fits under seat. Interior absorbent lining recommended. Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old. Rabies vaccination required. Affix Live Animal sticker on carrier along with ID tag inside. Only permitted small dogs can fly in cabin.
  • Transporting Dogs as Cargo
  • Use an IATA-compliant rigid plastic kennel properly secured and labeled. Allow room for dog to stand, turn and lie down. Include bedding, food and water bowls inside. Request expedited kennel return upon arrival. Certain breeds prohibited as cargo.

KLM's Cat Policy

  • KLM has separate guidelines regarding transporting cats as cabin pets or as cargo:
  • In-Cabin Cats
  • Use a soft carrier that fits under seat with proper leak-proof lining and closures. Litter pan advisable. Cats must be at least 12 weeks old. Affix Live Animal stickers. Only domestic cats allowed in cabin.
  • Transporting Cats as Cargo
  • Use an IATA-compliant rigid plastic kennel secured and labeled appropriately. Include litter pan, bedding, bowls inside. Mark arrows indicating upright animal orientation. Request expedited kennel return upon arrival. Certain breeds prohibited.

Tips for Flying Pets Internationally with KLM

  • Key tips for smooth international KLM pet travel include:
  • Research entry requirements thoroughly for all countries on your itinerary in advance.
  • Obtain mandatory import permits, vaccinations, health certificates well before travel.
  • Certain destinations require quarantining pets on arrival - plan accordingly.
  • Clearly mark kennels with Live Animal and destination country placards and labels.
  • Have a backup carrier in case your pet exceeds in-cabin size limits.
  • For long flights, include ample interior carrier bedding and comforts.
  • Take direct international flights where possible to minimize disruptions.
  • Carry copies of all documents required during your journey.
  • Consider booking KLM's premium pet care program for personalized assistance.
  • Request pre-boarding and priority kennel return where available.
  • Avoid sedating pets as this poses significant health risks.
  • Attach collar ID tag with your contact details in case of errors.
  • Verify adequate climate conditions for pets at all destinations.
  • While flying internationally with pets via KLM involves more preparation, proper planning can ensure your furry friends travels comfortably and safely to destinations worldwide.

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