• TAP Portugal allows travelers to fly with small pets like cats and dogs in the aircraft cabin on most routes. The airline also offers cargo service for transporting larger animals on select international flights. TAP Portugal has specific policies regarding pet carriers, reservations, documents, fees and restrictions that owners must review before booking any travel. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of TAP's rules and regulations for flying with pets.

Key Aspects of TAP Portugal's Pet Policy

• There are some important things passengers need to know about TAP Portugal's pet travel services and policies:

• Small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin on most TAP Portugal flights with advance reservations required. Certain snub-nosed breeds are prohibited due to health risks. Pets need to be at least 8 weeks old.

• Pets must travel in proper airline-approved hard or soft-sided carriers that allow them to stand up and turn around inside. Carriers must fit under the seat. Only 1 pet in 1 carrier per passenger is permitted, not exceeding 8 kg in weight including the carrier.

• TAP Portugal charges a pet fee of €50 each way for transporting a pet in the cabin on European flights. Higher fees apply for intercontinental flights and excess baggage.

• Pets must remain inside secured carriers for the entire flight duration without disturbing other passengers. Problematic pets exhibiting aggressive behavior or noisiness can be denied boarding.

• For larger pets traveling as cargo, proper kennels, advance reservations, health certificates and import permits mandated by destination countries are required.

TAP Portugal's Rules for In-Cabin Pets

• TAP Portugal has outlined the following rules regarding carriage of small pets in the cabin:

• Only domesticated dogs and cats that are accustomed to confinement are allowed in the cabin. Certain snub-nosed brachycephalic breeds are prohibited due to respiratory distress risks at higher altitudes.

• The pets need to be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned. Kittens or puppies under 8 weeks cannot be transported.

• The pets must travel in leak-proof, well-ventilated carriers approved by TAP Portugal. Carriers must allow the pet to sit, stand up, turn around comfortably inside. Sturdy handles are required.

• Only 1 pet is permitted per carrier, with total weight not exceeding 8 kg including the carrier. Exceeding weight limits will require cargo shipping.

• Pet carriers need to fit completely under the seat without blocking aisles or impinging on other's leg space. Hard-sided kennels should be as small as possible.

• Passengers need to declare carriage of pets at booking and make required reservations. Pet confirmations are mandatory.

Pet Fees Charged by TAP Portugal

• TAP Portugal charges fees for transporting animals in the aircraft cabin:

• The standard pet fee is €50 each way for flights within Europe in economy class. For business class, it is €70 each way.

• Higher charges apply for intercontinental flights to North America and Africa. The fee is €100 each way in economy and €120 in business class.

• No discounts apply on the mandatory pet fee. Additional excess baggage fees apply if the carrier exceeds size or weight limits.

• If owner's carry-on needs to be checked-in due to the pet carrier, regular checked baggage fees also apply.

• All pet charges need to be paid at the time of online booking or check-in.

Transporting Larger Pets in Cargo

• For transporting bigger dogs, cats or other larger animals exceeding cabin size limits, TAP Portugal offers accompanied cargo service:

• Booking needs to be done directly with TAP Portugal Cargo at least 48 hours before scheduled departure. Capacity is limited so advance planning is recommended.

• Pets must travel in proper IATA-compliant containers made of wood, metal or reinforced plastic with necessary interior bedding, food and water provisions. Containers must allow the pet to stand up and turn around.

• Mandatory documents include an import license and health certificate issued by a licensed vet attesting to the animal's fitness for travel. This must be obtained within 10 days of departure.

• Pets cleared for travel to destinations like the EU, Canada, and USA require a EU Health Certificate obtained within 10 days of arrival at destination.

• Owners are responsible for ensuring transit countries also permit import of the animal breed and meeting any specific requirements.

Key Restrictions in TAP Portugal's Pet Policy

• TAP Portugal imposes some important restrictions regarding pet travel:

• Snub-nosed brachycephalic dog/cat breeds are prohibited in cabin and cargo due to respiratory risks.

• Aggressive or dangerous animal breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Staffordshire Terriers are banned from traveling as cargo.

• Puppies and kittens under 8 weeks old and unweaned are not permitted to fly.

• Pregnant pets in the final trimester cannot be transported.

• There are number and weight limits for in-cabin pets depending on aircraft type.

• Pets showing signs of distress, aggression, illness or sedation can be denied boarding at TAP's discretion.

Tips for Smooth Pet Travel

• To ensure an easy journey for your pet when traveling TAP Portugal, consider these tips:

• Review all applicable pet policies thoroughly regarding permitted breeds, necessary documents, carrier requirements etc. before booking.

• Make advance reservations for in-cabin and cargo pets and obtain confirmations from the airline.

• Use an approved leak-proof carrier or container with adequate room, proper bedding, bowls and labeling. Have cleaning supplies on hand.

• Ensure your pet’s required paperwork and health certificates will remain valid for the entire journey duration including transit stops and destination entry.

• For cargo pets, provide detailed feeding and care instructions securely attached to the crate.

• Carry sufficient food, water, medications for entire trip including delays or stopovers.

• Have proof of ownership and all documents handy for presenting if requested at any point during the journey.

• Prepare your pet for a smooth airport and flight experience to minimize stress.

• By following TAP Portugal's pet policy, making proper arrangements, and taking all precautions, you can ensure a comfortable journey for pets by air.

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