Flying with your pet on KLM Airlines is easy and straightforward. Whether your pet is flying in the cabin with you or traveling safely in the cargo hold, KLM makes sure they're well taken care of. As a pet owner, you know how important it is for your furry friend to be comfortable and safe during the trip.
If you're moving or going on a trip and want to bring your pet along, KLM can help you to make that happen. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about booking a flight for your pet with KLM. We’ll cover what you need to do, the documents required, and any rules or weight limits you should be aware of. With KLM, you can travel knowing your pet is in good hands. Let’s check out the KLM Pet Policy in detail.
KLM Pet In Cabin
When it comes to flying with pets, then the pet owners have to make sure they are carrying pets that don't come under breed restrictions. In short, only small dogs and cats are permitted on the planet with a weight not more than 8 kg along with the total carrier size.
Other animals who are larger in size cannot travel as carry-on, and therefore have to be sent in the cargo section. Passengers are allowed to fly with the owner in economy class only, and for business class if there is a flight to europe. For intercontinental routes, there is a restriction for keeping pets with you in the cabin while travelling on premium or business class.
The travel kennel needs to be roomy enough for your pet to move around comfortably, as they cannot be taken out during the flight. To fit under the seat in front of you, the kennel must not exceed 46 x 28 x 24 cm in size. Each passenger is allowed to bring only one cat or dog in the cabin.
KLM Pet In Cargo Hold
If you're traveling with more than three pets, KLM requires you to transport them as cargo. Here’s what you need to know:
Weight and Size: The total weight of your pets and their kennel must exceed 165 lbs (75 kg), and the kennel’s combined dimensions (Length + Width + Height) must be over 292 cm (115 in).
Separate Flight: Your pet will need to travel on a different flight from you.
Destination Rules: Your pet’s destination must only allow pets to be transported as cargo.
KLM Pet Charges and Pre-Departure Tips
Pet Charges:
Depending on where you’re flying, pet fees range from about $37 to $243 USD (30 to 200 EUR).
At Schiphol (Amsterdam) Airport, you’ll need to pay an extra $183 USD (150 EUR).
Before Departure Tips:
Acclimate Your Pet: Let your pet get used to their kennel at least 5 days before your flight.
Pre-Flight Prep: Avoid feeding or giving your pet water at least 2 hours before departure.
Exercise: Take your dog for a walk to help them relax.
Avoid Medication: Don’t tranquilize your pet without vet approval.
Checklist: Download, read, and complete the KLM Pet Checklist if your pet is traveling in the hold.
Early Arrival: Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight.
KLM Pet Policy for Transporting Pets in the Hold
General Guidelines:
Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 70 days (10 weeks) old.
Kennel Compliance: The kennel must follow IATA regulations (Sky and Vari brands are recommended).
Weight Limits: The total weight of the pet and kennel must not exceed 165 lbs (75 kg).
Number of Animals:
Two compatible adult animals can share one kennel if each weighs up to 30 lbs (14 kg).
Three animals from the same litter can share one kennel if they are under 6 months old and each weighs up to 30 lbs (14 kg).
Restrictions:
Food and Water: Pets in the hold will not receive food or water.
Snub-Nosed Breeds: Most snub-nosed breeds (e.g., Pekinese, Persian cats, boxers) cannot travel in the hold. They can fly in the cabin or as cargo.
Specific Breeds: French and English bulldogs, pugs, and Boston terriers can only travel in the cabin.
Aircraft Restrictions: In accordance with KLM Pet Policy, the pets are not accepted in the hold on KLM’s Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft or Embraer 175 and 190 aircraft (KLM Cityhopper flights) if the flight is 2 hours or longer.
Kennel Requirements:
Construction: The kennel must have a rigid plastic or fiberglass shell (wood, wire, or metal bar kennels are not allowed).
Wheels: Wheels must be taped or removed.
Locking System: The door must have a centralized locking system that secures both top and bottom locks.
Locking Pins: Pins and door hinges must extend at least 1.6 cm (5/8 in) beyond the kennel's edges.
Bolting: Kennel parts must be bolted together (other locking methods are not permitted).
Space and Comfort: The kennel must be large enough for the pet to stand, sit upright, lie down, and turn around comfortably.
Flooring: Use absorbent material like newspaper or a blanket, but not straw.
Food and Water: The kennel must have either 2 fixed food bowls or 1 bowl with separate compartments for food and water.
Labeling: The kennel must have a label with your pet’s name and feeding instructions.
Before Travel: Download, read, and complete the KLM Pet Checklist if your pet is traveling in the hold.
Conditions Under Which Your Pet Cannot Travel As Carry-On and Checked Baggage
KLM Airlines has specific conditions that may prevent your pet from being transported. Your pet cannot travel with KLM if:
Species Restriction: You wish to transport an animal other than a dog or a cat.
Weight Limit: The combined weight of your pet and kennel exceeds 75 kg.
Kennel Size: The kennel dimensions exceed 122 x 81 x 89 cm on regular KLM flights or 102 x 69 x 76 cm on KLM Cityhopper flights.
Separate Flights: Your pet is on a different flight from yours.
Destination Restrictions: Your pet is traveling to a country where only cargo transport is permitted for pets.
If any of these conditions apply, it's best to contact a specialized shipping agent for alternative arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions On KLM Pet Policy
How strict is KLM with pets?
As per KLM Pet Policy, the KLM airline requires passengers to follow the pet travel rules carefully, including specific guidelines on pet size, weight limits, kennel dimensions, and age. If your pet does not meet these criteria, they may not be allowed to travel. It’s important to carefully review and follow these rules to ensure a smooth journey for your furry friend.
Are pets allowed on KLM?
Yes, KLM allows pets to travel with them. Pets can either be carried in the cabin or transported in the cargo hold, depending on their size and weight. For cabin travel, pets must be small enough to fit in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you. Larger pets are transported in the cargo hold.
How much does KLM charge for dogs?
According to the KLM Pet Policy, the cost of transporting a dog with KLM varies by destination and can range from approximately USD 37 to USD 243 (EUR 30 to EUR 200). Additional fees may apply, especially at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, where an extra fee of around USD 183 (EUR 150) may be charged.
What size bag for pets on KLM?
For pets traveling in the cabin, the carrier must not exceed 46 x 28 x 24 cm (18 x 11 x 9 inches) and should fit under the seat in front of you. The combined weight of your pet and carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17 lbs).
Does KLM allow pets in the cabin?
Yes, KLM allows pets in the cabin, provided they meet the size and weight restrictions. Pets must be transported in a suitable carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Only one pet per passenger is permitted in the cabin section.
Can I bring my pet on a transatlantic flight with KLM?
Yes, you can bring your pet on a transatlantic flight with KLM. Pets can travel in the cabin or as cargo, depending on their size and weight.
+1-866-410-8128