KLM Pet Travel Rules: Flying with Your Animal Companion

If you’re planning to travel with your pet, it’s essential to know the rules set by your airline. As one of the world’s major carriers, KLM has specific policies to ensure safe and comfortable journeys for both you and your four-legged companion. Below, we outline the key requirements for traveling with a pet in the cabin or as checked baggage—including crate specifications—so you can prepare for a smooth trip.

Traveling in Cabin: KLM’s Requirements and General Conditions

First, determine whether your pet can fly in the cabin. With KLM, only small dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin, subject to these conditions:

• The combined weight of the animal and its crate must not exceed 8 kg.

• The animal must be at least 10 weeks old.

• The travel crate must meet KLM’s approved standards—more details in the dedicated section below.

• Only one animal may occupy each crate.

• Space is limited; early reservation is strongly advised.

• You must notify KLM at least 48 hours before departure that you’ll be traveling with a pet.

Required Documents for Cabin Travel

Presenting the correct documentation is mandatory. Required paperwork includes:

• A pet passport (valid for travel within the European Union).

• A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.

• Proof of current rabies vaccination compliant with international and national regulations.

• Any additional documents mandated by your destination or transit countries.

Traveling as Checked Baggage: KLM’s Conditions

If your pet doesn’t qualify for the cabin, it may travel in the hold if you meet KLM’s requirements. Key points for hold travel include:

• A mandatory advance reservation is required to secure a spot for your animal.

• You must contact KLM to inform them of your hold travel plans and provide details such as your pet’s weight and crate size.

• Also consider any country-specific restrictions on import, transit, and necessary paperwork.

Required Documents for Hold Travel

Documentation needs for hold travel mirror cabin requirements. Be sure to prepare the following:

• A pet passport (required for EU travel).

• A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian, issued no more than 10 days before departure.

• Proof of current rabies vaccination meeting international and national standards—note that some destinations may require a rabies antibody titer test.

• Additional documents may be required by your destination or transit countries.

Crate Requirements: KLM’s Standards

Whether traveling in the cabin or the hold, your pet’s crate must comply with KLM’s safety and welfare guidelines. KLM’s crate rules include:

• Maximum dimensions for in-cabin crates: 46 cm L x 28 cm W x 24 cm H. The total combined dimension (L+W+H) must not exceed 76 cm.

• For hold travel, the crate must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations standards to ensure safety and comfort.

• The animal should be able to stand without touching the crate top, turn around, and lie down comfortably in their crate.

• The crate must have adequate ventilation, a leak-proof floor (e.g., absorbent lining), and a water bowl affixed to the door.

Special Note: Some aircraft types, such as certain Boeing 787 models or flights with long stopovers (over 3 hours), do not accept pets in the hold. Many flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds are also barred from the hold and must travel in the cabin or as freight.