Pets & Service Animals

The carriage of pets (such as cats and dogs) as baggage is subject to the International Air Transport Association Live Animals Regulations (IATA-LAR) Carriage is also subject to Customs and Health Department regulations of all countries from, to or through which the pets may be carried.

Health Requirements

• Ensure the travel crate complies with IATA Container Requirement #1.
• The crate should be spacious enough for the pet to move comfortably.
• Acclimate your pet to the crate over several weeks or months.
• Obtain a health certificate from a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
• For international travel, secure an international health certificate, also within 10 days of departure.

Know The Risks

• Health Certificate: Before traveling, obtaining a health certificate from a veterinarian is crucial. This certificate confirms that your pet is fit for travel and has received the necessary vaccinations.
• Veterinarian Consultation: Discussing the risks associated with air travel with your veterinarian can provide insights into how travel may affect your pet's health, considering its medical history and any existing conditions.
• Anxiety and Stress: Animals can experience anxiety and stress during travel due to changes in environment and routine. It's important to consider if your pet has anxiety disorders that could be exacerbated by travel.
• Age Considerations: Young and old animals may be more susceptible to the stresses of travel. Age should be a key factor when deciding whether to transport an animal by air.
• Breed Specific Risks: Some breeds, particularly brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats, are at higher risk during air travel due to respiratory issues. Discuss breed-specific risks with your veterinarian.
• Preparation and Acclimation: Gradually acclimating your pet to its travel crate and the sounds and sensations of travel can help reduce stress.
• Direct Flights and Climate Control: Whenever possible, choose direct flights and ensure that the cargo area is climate-controlled to minimize the duration and discomfort of travel for your pet.
• Monitoring and Identification: Ensure your pet has proper identification and that you have a way to monitor its status during transit, if possible.
• Aftercare Post-Travel: After travel, monitor your pet for any signs of distress or illness and provide a comfortable and quiet space for them to recover from the journey.

Tranquilizers and Sedatives

• Sedatives can lower blood pressure, leading to grogginess and potential hypothermia in cool cargo areas during flights.
• High altitudes may alter the effects of sedatives, with the risk of abnormal reactions and the need for veterinary care.
• Sedation can impair an animal's ability to balance and brace themselves, increasing the risk of injury.
• Crate training is recommended over sedation for air travel, as it can help pets feel secure and reduce anxiety without the risks associated with sedatives.
• Consultation with a veterinarian is crucial before considering any medication for pets during air travel to ensure their safety and well-being.

Pets in Cabin

Cats and dogs only are acceptable as cabin pets. A maximum of two (2) pets will be allowed in the cabin on any flight. Travelers must advise at the time of booking that they intend to travel with a pet to avoid exceeding the limit. Where there are no bookings, cabin pets will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. Pets must be a minimum of 8 weeks old. Pet carrier dimensions should not exceed 18” x 11” x 11”.

Pet must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down in a natural position in the carrier.

The cabin pet carrier is included in the maximum number of carry-on items allowed and the fee is $75 one way. The combined maximum weight of carrier and pet must not exceed 20 pounds and only one pet is allowed per pet carrier. Each passenger is only allowed one pet carrier.

Passengers are responsible to determine and comply with state entry requirements (travel to US, Turks & Caicos, Cuba) for their pets. Passengers traveling with pets will not be given seat assignments in emergency exit rows or rows with no forward under seat stowage. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of the passenger. The pet must remain in the carrier at all times.

We reserve the right to refuse acceptance of pets displaying aggressive behavior, illness, an offensive odor, require special attention during flight, or if the condition of the pet carrier is considered inadequate. Carriage as baggage is at owner’s risk.

We maintain the right to refuse acceptance of any animal that is exhibiting aggressive behavior.

Trained Service Animals

Service Eligibility

• Service animals must be fully trained to assist individuals with disabilities.
• They should have current vaccinations as per the relevant health guidelines.
• The animal must fit within the traveler's seating area without obstructing aisles or spaces of other passengers.
• Service animals should not exhibit aggressive or disruptive behavior during the journey.
• Emotional support animals are not considered service animals.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates the Service Animal Air Travel form to be completed for service animals on US bound flights.

• Passengers should submit the completed forms along with a service request to Bahamasair at least 48 hours prior to departure.

If assistance is needed with the forms, passengers are advised to bring a printed copy to the airport on the day of travel for help from an agent.

U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form.pdf

U.S. DOT Service Animal Relief Attestation Form.pdf