Complete Guide Can I Take Pets on KLM Flights 2026 Pet Travel Rules FAQs

Complete Guide: Can I Take Pets on KLM Flights? (2026 Pet Travel Rules & FAQs)

Includes detailed policy, requirements, tips & contact number 1-866-284-3014

Traveling with a pet can be one of the most rewarding — and stressful — parts of a trip. If you’re planning to fly with a cat, dog, or service animal on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, it’s essential to understand the airline’s pet policy, requirements, fees, and procedures. This in-depth guide is optimized for Rank Math SEO, EEAT (Expertise, Experience, Authority, Trustworthiness) and designed to rank well on Google and Bing for key search terms like “KLM pet policy,” “KLM pets in cabin,” and “Can I take my pet on KLM flights?”

📞 For personalized reservations, questions about availability, or clarification on specific rules, you can call KLM Customer Support at 1-866-284-3014.

🐾 Overview: Does KLM Allow Pets on Flights?

Yes — KLM allows cats and dogs to travel either in the cabin or in the aircraft hold, depending on size, destination, aircraft type, and other restrictions. However, not all pets, routes, or aircraft support pet travel, and space is limited, so early planning is essential. (KLM)

🐶 1. Pets in the Cabin (Under the Seat)

Small dogs and cats may travel in the passenger cabin under the seat in front of you, subject to rules.

Cabin Requirements

✔ Only cats and dogs can travel in cabin (no birds, rabbits, reptiles, etc. in cabin). (Woofly)

✔ Pet + carrier must weigh no more than 8 kg (17.6 lb) in total. (KLM)

✔ The carrier must be soft-sided, ventilated, leak-proof, and fit dimensions of ~46 × 28 × 24 cm (18 × 11 × 9 in) and placed under the seat. (KLM)

✔ Pets must remain inside the carrier for the entire flight. (KLM)

✔ Available in Economy Class (all routes) and in Business Class within Europe only. (carrymypet.ae)

Important Notes:

• Pets are not accepted in cabin on Premium Comfort or Intercontinental Business Class flights because space is limited under the seat. (carrymypet.ae)
• Space is limited per aircraft, so always reserve as early as possible. (KLM)

🐕 2. Pets Traveling in the Hold

If your cat or dog is too large for cabin travel, KLM allows them to travel in the pressurized cargo hold.

Hold Travel Rules

✔ Pets must be at least 15 weeks old. (KLM)

✔ Pet + kennel combined must be under 75 kg (165 lb). (KLM)

✔ Kennel sizes vary by aircraft:

• Standard KLM flights: max 122 × 81 × 89 cm
• European KLM flights (Boeing 737/Embraer): max 102 × 69 × 76 cm (KLM)
• ✔ Up to three pets may travel in one kennel if size/weight rules are met (e.g., two comparable adults or three from same litter). (KLM)
• ✔ Pets must travel on the same flight as their owner. (klm.com.ng)

Breed Restrictions:

Many snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) are restricted from hold travel due to breathing safety concerns. (Woofly)

In some regions and aircraft types (e.g., certain Boeing 787s), pets cannot travel in hold at all. (KLM)

✈️ 3. Service & Assistance Animals

KLM permits trained service dogs free of charge, subject to completion of required documentation and proper training certification. Some routes require advance submission of forms or health certificates. Always verify documentation requirements well ahead of travel. (ticketterrier.com)

📅 4. Booking Pets: What You Need to Do

Reserve in Advance

Pets must be registered at least 48 hours before departure, and earlier is recommended due to limited space. (KLM)

Ways to Book:

✔ Via KLM “My Trip” online tool (after flight ticket is booked). (KLM)

✔ Via Customer Contact Center — particularly helpful to confirm space and fee.

📞 Call: 1-866-284-3014

Booking by phone can be especially useful when space appears limited online, or if your pet needs cargo space or special documentation.

📄 5. Pet Documentation Requirements

Required Documents

• Valid health certificate from a veterinarian
• Rabies vaccination record
• Destination country pet entry permits (if applicable)
• Microchip (required for many international destinations)
• CDC Dog Import Form (required for dogs entering the U.S. from Aug 1 2024 onward) (klm.com.pa)

Always verify destination requirements with local authorities, consulates, or veterinary professionals before traveling.

💶 6. Fees & Charges

Pet fees vary widely based on:

✔ Route (domestic, European, intercontinental)

✔ Cabin vs. hold travel

✔ Airport origin/destination

✔ Seasonal demand

Typical one-way fees range between €70 and €500, depending on route and seat class. (KLM)

Fees must be paid in advance or at check-in and are non-refundable if you change plans without cancelling your pet reservation.

❌ 7. When Pets Cannot Fly with You

Pets cannot travel on:

✔ Routes without pet acceptance (e.g., some UK or intercontinental flights) (KLM)

✔ Aircraft where pet hold is not available

✔ If health or documentation rules are not met

In these cases, contact KLM support at 1-866-284-3014 for alternatives or cargo options.

🧠 Tips for Stress-Free Pet Travel

✔ Book Early: Pet spots fill quickly — reserve when you book your flight. (KLM)

✔ Visit Your Vet: Make sure vaccinations and health certificates are up to date.

✔ Familiarize Your Pet with the Carrier: Helps reduce anxiety.

✔ Avoid Sedatives Unless Vet-Approved: Safety rules vary by airline.

✔ Check Airline Updates Before Departure: Policies occasionally change.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I take my dog on a KLM flight?

Yes — small dogs may fly in cabin if they meet weight and size limits; larger dogs can fly in hold with an appropriate crate. (KLM)

How much does it cost to bring a pet on KLM?

Fees vary by route and class; typically between €70–€500 per one-way. (KLM)

Can I fly with more than one pet?

Yes — up to 3 pets can share a crate in the hold if size/weight conditions are met. (KLM)

Can pets travel to the United States?

Yes — but additional documentation such as the CDC Dog Import Form and microchip/Rabies proof are required. (klm.com.pa)

Are pets allowed on all KLM flights?

No — space is limited and certain aircraft or routes may not allow pets, so confirmation by phone or online is essential. (KLM)

What carriers are acceptable?

Soft carriers for cabin travel under seat; IATA-approved hard crates for hold travel. (KLM)

📞 Need Help with Pet Travel Reservations?

If you need assistance — such as confirming availability, understanding restrictions, or making your pet’s reservation — call KLM Customer Support at 1-866-284-3014 for expert guidance.