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Airline Pet Policy Guide · 2026

Air Canada

✓ Cats in Cabin Airline

Pet Policy Overview

Air Canada offers both cabin and cargo pet travel options and stands out for its generous 10 kg cabin weight limit — 2 kg more than most European carriers. This makes it one of the better options for slightly larger cats that would exceed the standard 8 kg limit on Air France or Lufthansa. Air Canada's network provides excellent connectivity from North America to Europe, Asia, and South America through its major hubs at Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), and Vancouver (YVR).

Key Details

Pet Fee

From CAD $67 (domestic) / CAD $118+ (international)

Pro Tip

Air Canada charges relatively affordable fees compared to US and European competitors, with domestic one-way fares starting at CAD $67. The airline allows both hard-sided and soft-sided carriers in the cabin, with different maximum dimensions for each type. Soft-sided carriers can be up to 55×40×23 cm, which is quite generous and accommodates most standard pet travel bags. Book your pet by phone at least 24 hours before departure, as online pet booking is not available.

Restrictions

Brachycephalic breeds are accepted in the cabin but may face restrictions in cargo during extreme weather. Cats must be at least 8 weeks old domestically and 15 weeks for international travel. Pets are not allowed on flights to/from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, or other destinations with cargo-only import requirements. One pet per carrier, one carrier per passenger. Pets not allowed in Business or Signature Class.