Traveling with Pets on Commercial Flights in Thailand

Abstract

Traveling with pets on commercial flights in Thailand is gaining popularity, both domestically and internationally for pet owners who want to travel with their pets for relocation, tourism, or participation in special events. The pet owners involve navigating airline policies, government regulations, and logistical challenges. Domestic airlines in Thailand such as Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways have set specific regulations for pet transportation, including in-cabin, checked baggage, and cargo options, with restrictions based on pet size, breed, and health conditions (Thai Airways, n.d.). The Department of Livestock Development (DLD), Thailand, also enforces regulations on vaccinations, health certificates, and quarantine requirements for international pet travel (DLD, n.d.). This study examines these policies, common challenges faced by pet owners, and best practices for ensuring a smooth and safe journey. Understanding these regulations helps travelers make decisions and ensure pet welfare during air travel.         

The findings reveal that each commerccial airlines in Thailand have different policies regarding pet transportation, categorized into cabin travel and cargo hold transport. The availability and quality of pet-friendly services vary among airlines, with some offering in-cabin travel options for small pets and others relying on cargo hold transport, which may pose risks to the pet’s health and well-being. Pets traveling in the cabin must meet specific weight and size requirements and must be housed in standard-compliant carriers. Meanwhile, transporting pets in the cargo hold may affect their health due to stress and temperature fluctuations. Proper preparation, such as conducting pet health checks, obtaining necessary documentation, and selecting airlines that provide reliable pet transport services, is essential to ensure safety and convenience. Additionally, establishing clear national standards and guidelines can enhance traveler confidence and create business opportunities for Thailand’s aviation industry.