Traveling with a pet can be a challenge, and it’s important to know what to expect to ensure a smooth trip. Japan Airlines has specific rules for traveling with pets that are crucial for a stress-free journey. While pets are not allowed in the passenger cabin, certified service animals like guide dogs can travel with you at no extra charge. Pets, including dogs and cats, can be transported as checked baggage on both domestic and international flights.
However, Japan Airlines limits the number of pets on each flight, so it's essential to plan and book ahead. To make sure your pet’s journey is comfortable and safe, familiarize yourself with the Japan Airlines Pet Policy before you fly.
What is Japan Airlines Pet Policy?
As per this policy, passengers are allowed to carry pets such as marmots, squirrels, rabbits, small cats, dogs, ferrets, and more. However, please ensure your pet, such as a dog or cat, is not older than eight weeks. Due to limited space, it's crucial to make arrangements for your pet in advance. Additionally, Japan Airlines is very strict about keeping pets in the cabin, but you can carry them as checked baggage or place them in the cargo hold.
Japan Airlines Pets in the Cabin
Can you bring pets into the cabin on Japan Airlines?
Japan Airlines doesn’t allow pets in the passenger cabin. However, if you have a Certified Service Animal (like a guide dog), it can travel with you for free in the cabin if you need it for assistance.
Here’s what you need to do if traveling with a service animal:
Notify Japan Airlines in advance that you will be traveling with a service animal.
Show proof that your dog has received special training with a certification.
Keep your dog at your feet during the flight.
Use a cape or vest to identify your dog as a service animal.
Carry a muzzle and use it if needed.
Only give your dog water during the flight.
Japan Airlines Pet Policy—Pets as Checked Baggage
There are specific rules for pets traveling as checked baggage in the cargo hold, both internationally and domestically. Let’s take a closer look at these rules.
International Flight Pet Rules
For international flights, pets must be transported as checked baggage. Your pet will be safely placed in the plane's cargo hold before departure. Upon reaching your final destination, you will retrieve your pet at the baggage claim area.
Note that if your pet carrier weighs up to 32 kg, it is acceptable for transport. However, if it exceeds this weight, your pet will be transported in the plane's cargo area. Additionally, if your baggage weight exceeds 20 kg, extra charges will apply.
Domestic Flight Pet Rules
For domestic flights, Japan Airlines applies the same weight limits as for international travel. You can bring along pets like cats and dogs (excluding bulldogs and French bulldogs), as well as turtles, insects, and goldfish.
Here’s what you need to remember when traveling with pets:
Verify the import and export regulations.
Get a letter of consent ready.
Complete the check-in process.
Collect your pet at the baggage claim when you arrive.
Japan Airlines Pet Fees—Pets as Checked Baggage
International Flights
For international flights, the fee for pets traveling as checked baggage usually ranges:
About USD/CAD 400 (¥40,000) per crate per flight between Japan and destinations like India, Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, North America, Central/South America, and Oceania.
Around USD/CAD 250 (¥25,000) per crate per flight between Japan and places like Guam, Oceania, and Asia.
Domestic flights within Japan with international conditions typically cost around USD/CAD 50 (¥5,000) per crate per flight.
Domestic Flights
For flights within Japan, the pet fee ranges from ¥3,000 to ¥6,000 per crate per flight, depending on your route.
Japan Airlines Pet Cargo: International Flights
Japan Airlines allows pets like cats, dogs (except French Bulldogs and Bulldogs), small seed-eating birds, insects, ferrets, hamsters, rabbits, squirrels, chinchillas, and marmots on international flights. Your pet needs to be at least 8 weeks old to travel.
Pet Documents: The required documents vary by destination, but you generally need:
Live Animals Shipping Declaration
Quarantine Certification
Rabies Vaccination Certificate
Pet Crate Requirements: Your pet’s crate should be well-ventilated and spacious enough. It must be IATA-approved and include food and water storage. For small pets like rodents or hamsters, use a sturdy crate as they have strong teeth. Japan Airlines allows only one pet per crate. The crate should be leak proof, escape-proof, and lockable. Avoid cages made entirely of wire or welded mesh; opt for materials like fiberglass, wood, or plastic for strength.
Pet Health Tips for Traveling
Before booking your flight, it’s essential to talk to your vet if your pet has any health issues. This includes problems like difficulty breathing, trouble regulating their body temperature, loss of appetite, or earlier stress from dark or confined spaces during flights. Ensuring your pet is healthy and comfortable during the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions On Japan Airlines Pet Policy
Is Japan Airlines pet-friendly?
Yes, Japan Airlines is pet-friendly, but their policy varies depending on the type of flight and the pet’s size.
Does Japan Airlines allow pets?
Yes, it does allow pets in the cabin or in the cargo hold.
How Do I Get a Pet Passport for Travel from the USA to Japan?
As per Japan Airlines Pet Policy, to get a pet passport for traveling from the USA to Japan, follow these steps:
Visit Your Vet: Ensure your pet is healthy and vaccinations, especially rabies, are up-to-date.
Obtain a Health Certificate: Your vet will issue an International Health Certificate confirming your pet’s health.
Microchip Your Pet: Ensure your pet has an ISO-compliant microchip.
Check Quarantine Requirements: Be aware of possible quarantine upon arrival in Japan.
Always verify with the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service for the latest requirements.
Can Emotional Support Animals Fly On Japan Airlines?
Yes, according to the Japan Airlines Pet Policy, the emotional support animals can travel in the Japan Airlines. However, they can only travel in the cargo hold with a proper controlled environment.
+1-866-410-8128
