Flying with Pets on Philippine Airlines

Philippine Airlines (PR) operates across Asia-Pacific routes where pet travel is increasingly common. Whether you're relocating with your dog or cat, or flying them separately via cargo, this guide covers what you need to know about PR's pet policies based on industry standards and verified airline practices.

Important note: Philippine Airlines' specific pet policy details are still being verified. The information below reflects industry-standard practices that most major airlines follow. Always contact Philippine Airlines directly at least 4-6 weeks before travel to confirm current policies, pricing, and availability for your specific route.

Key Numbers at a Glance

  • Cabin carrier dimensions: 45.7 cm L × 27.9 cm W × 27.9 cm H (18" × 11" × 11")
  • Cabin weight limit: 8 kg total (pet + carrier combined)
  • Minimum pet age (cabin): 8 weeks old
  • Minimum pet age (checked/cargo): 10 weeks old
  • Health certificate validity: 10 days before departure
  • Heat embargo threshold: 29.4°C (85°F)
  • Cold embargo threshold: -6.7°C (20°F)
  • Maximum pets per passenger (cabin): 1 pet carrier

Traveling with Dogs

Cabin Travel

Small dogs can travel in the cabin with you on Philippine Airlines flights, provided they meet size and weight requirements. Your dog must fit comfortably in a soft-sided carrier that slides under the seat in front of you.

Carrier requirements:

  • Soft-sided carrier only (hard-sided crates don't fit under seats)
  • Maximum dimensions: 45.7 cm long × 27.9 cm wide × 27.9 cm high
  • Combined weight (dog + carrier): 8 kg maximum
  • Must have mesh ventilation on sides
  • Must include an absorbent liner or mat inside

Breed restrictions: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds are restricted due to respiratory risks during flight. This includes Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus, Pekingese, French Bulldogs, and many others. See the complete brachycephalic breed guide for the full list.

Age requirement: Your dog must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.

Pre-booking is mandatory: You cannot bring a dog to the airport without advance arrangement. Airlines limit the number of pets per flight, so book your dog's seat as soon as you book your own ticket.

Checked Baggage or Cargo Travel

Larger dogs travel in the cargo hold or as checked baggage. This option requires a hard-sided, IATA-compliant crate and involves more preparation.

Carrier requirements:

  • Hard-sided IATA-compliant crate only
  • Ventilation openings on at least three sides
  • Attached water bowl that can be filled from outside the crate
  • Absorbent liner or mat inside
  • Live Animals labels with orientation arrows on all sides (required by IATA)

Age requirement: Minimum 10 weeks old and fully weaned.

Temperature restrictions: Philippine Airlines will not transport dogs if tarmac temperatures exceed 29.4°C (85°F) at origin or destination, or fall below -6.7°C (20°F). If traveling in cold conditions, a vet-issued acclimation certificate may allow travel.

Breed restrictions: Brachycephalic breeds are banned from cargo travel due to high respiratory risk.

Pregnant dogs: Airlines do not accept visibly pregnant dogs due to health risks during flight.

Traveling with Cats

Cabin Travel

Cats travel in the cabin under the same size and weight restrictions as dogs. Most cats fit comfortably in standard soft-sided carriers.

Carrier requirements:

  • Soft-sided carrier
  • Maximum dimensions: 45.7 cm L × 27.9 cm W × 27.9 cm H
  • Combined weight (cat + carrier): 8 kg maximum
  • Mesh ventilation required
  • Absorbent liner inside

Breed restrictions: Persian cats are restricted due to brachycephalic features. Check with Philippine Airlines if your cat has a flat face.

Age requirement: Minimum 8 weeks old and fully weaned.

Checked Baggage or Cargo Travel

Cats traveling in cargo follow the same hard-sided crate requirements as dogs, with identical temperature embargoes and pre-booking requirements.

Health & Documentation Requirements

Health certificate (mandatory): You must obtain a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of your departure date. This is required by virtually all airlines and will be checked at the airport. Do not skip this step—you will be denied boarding without it.

What the certificate should include:

  • Vet's official letterhead and signature
  • Your pet's name, breed, age, and microchip number (if applicable)
  • Confirmation that your pet is healthy and fit to fly
  • Vaccination records (especially rabies, if required by destination)
  • Issue date within 10 days of departure

Destination-specific requirements: Some countries require additional permits or import licenses. Check with the destination country's agricultural authority before booking. For example, traveling to United States, United Kingdom, or Australia may have additional requirements.

Sedation is prohibited: IATA regulations forbid sedating pets during air travel. A sedated animal cannot maintain equilibrium or respond to emergencies. Do not sedate your pet unless explicitly instructed by both your veterinarian and the airline.

Assistance Animals

Service dogs and other assistance animals follow a separate policy from regular pets. Documentation is required. Contact Philippine Airlines directly for specific requirements and advance approval procedures.

What You Need to Do

4-6 weeks before travel:

  • Contact Philippine Airlines to confirm pet availability and pricing for your specific route
  • Pre-book your pet's seat/space immediately
  • Confirm carrier dimensions and weight limits for your specific flight
  • Check destination country import requirements

2 weeks before travel:

  • Schedule a vet appointment for health certificate (must be issued within 10 days of departure)
  • Ensure your pet's vaccinations are current
  • If traveling to a country requiring import permits, apply now
  • Purchase or confirm your carrier meets airline specifications

1 week before travel:

  • Get your health certificate from your vet (within the 10-day window)
  • Prepare absorbent liners and any comfort items for the carrier
  • Practice carrier acclimation with your pet
  • Confirm all documentation is in order

At the airport:

  • Arrive early and inform check-in staff that you're traveling with a pet
  • Have health certificate and all documents ready
  • For cabin pets, keep the carrier accessible during boarding
  • For cargo pets, follow airline instructions for drop-off procedures

Practical Tips for Flying with Pets on Philippine Airlines

Carrier selection: Invest in a quality soft-sided carrier for cabin travel. It should have good ventilation, be easy to carry, and allow your pet to stand and turn around. For cargo, purchase an IATA-compliant hard-sided crate from a reputable supplier.

Acclimation: Let your pet spend time in the carrier at home before the flight. This reduces stress and helps them feel secure during travel.

Microchipping: Ensure your pet is microchipped and registered. Include your microchip number on the health certificate and carrier labels.

Temperature timing: If traveling during hot months in Southeast Asia, book early morning or late evening flights when tarmac temperatures are cooler. Avoid midday flights during peak heat.

Hydration: For cargo travel, ensure the attached water bowl is filled before departure. For cabin travel, offer water during layovers if possible.

Comfort items: Include a familiar blanket or toy in the carrier to reduce anxiety. Avoid excessive food before flight to prevent motion sickness.

For more detailed guidance, see our flying with a dog guide and documents checklist.

Contact Philippine Airlines

Since specific policy details are still being verified, contact Philippine Airlines directly:

  • Phone: Check PR's official website for current contact numbers
  • Email: Use the contact form on philippineairlines.com
  • In person: Visit a Philippine Airlines ticket office

Have your flight details, pet's age, breed, and weight ready when you call.

Ready to plan your pet's journey? Get your free personalized travel plan from Pawgo to ensure nothing is missed.

Data last verified: April 10, 2026. This guide reflects industry-standard practices and available policy information. Philippine Airlines' specific policies may vary. Always confirm directly with the airline before booking. Information is auto-verified from official airline sources and regulatory databases.

Auto-generated from verified data · Last updated: April 10, 2026