Pet Policy
Rules and restrictions
Be sure to review this information before your trip and plan accordingly. And remember that all airlines have different restrictions, so review each airline’s rules before you book a new trip.
- Domestic policy: Pets are accepted on the following flights: Atlanta, Boston, JFK, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, Orlando, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington.
- International policy: Pets are accepted on the following flights: Antigua, Barbados, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, London (Gatwick and Heathrow), Manchester, St Lucia, Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne.
- Pets are not accepted on flights traveling from the UK to Hong Kong.
- Pets are not allowed in the main cabin. Pets allowed in baggage hold: cats and dogs.
- Brachycephalic breeds are not allowed in baggage hold. (Brachycephalic breeds are those with a shortened head and nose and flat faces such as pugs and Shih Tzus. They may have trouble breathing, which flying can exacerbate.)
Additional information about preparing pets for travel
- Check your pet in for their flight four hours before your departure time.
- Secure pet in a travel crate prior to check-in.
- For their own safety, pets must not be under sedation.
- Avoid feeding your pet within five hours of check-in, but do be sure to provide access to water. Airline staff will also check that your pet has enough water before take-off and landing.
Fees
See site for details.
About
Virgin Atlantic was established in 1984 as British Atlantic Airways, and its original intent was to fly between London and the Falkland Islands. After changing the name to Virgin Atlantic Airways, one of the owners, Randolph Fields (Alan Hellary was the other) sold his shares in the company after disagreements with Sir Richard Branson over the management of the company. This British airline’s head office is located in Crawley, United Kingdom.