Turkish Airlines Pet Policy For Beginners

What this Turkish Airlines’ Pet Policy About

Turkish Airlines is renowned for its pet-friendly approach, accommodating various animals both in the cabin and in the cargo hold. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Types of Pets Allowed

• In the Cabin: Cats, dogs, and small songbirds (such as parakeets and canaries) are permitted in the aircraft cabin. These animals must be transported in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
• In the Cargo Hold: Larger pets that cannot fit under the seat are transported in the aircraft’s cargo hold. This area is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.

2. Booking Your Pet’s Travel

• Reservations: It’s essential to inform Turkish Airlines about your pet at the time of booking. You can add your pet to your reservation through the airline’s website or mobile app using your reservation code (PNR).
• Pet Fees: The cost of transporting your pet varies based on the route and the size of the animal. Before traveling, you can calculate the pet transportation fee on Turkish Airlines’ website to avoid any surprises.

3. Carrier Requirements

• In the Cabin: The carrier must not exceed 23 cm in height, 30 cm in width, and 40 cm in length. The total weight of the pet and carrier combined should not exceed 8 kg. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• In the Cargo Hold: Carriers should not exceed 75 cm in height, 75 cm in width, and 125 cm in length. The total weight of the pet and carrier combined should not exceed 50 kg. The carrier must be sturdy, well-ventilated, and secure, with a leak-proof bottom.
  Turkish Airlines

4. Health and Documentation

• Vaccinations: Ensure your pet is up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations. Some destinations may have specific vaccination requirements, so it’s crucial to check the regulations of your destination country.
• Health Certificate: A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian is typically required, stating that your pet is fit to travel. This certificate should be obtained within a specific timeframe before departure, often within 7 days.
• Microchip: While not always mandatory, microchipping your pet is highly recommended for identification purposes.

Shop These Essentials Now:

• > High-quality carrier with extra padding
• >  Soft-sided carriers
• > Microchip for identification.
• > Vest for easy identification.
• > A light meal
• > Designated harness
• > Sanitizing wipes

5. At the Airport

• Check-In: When traveling with a pet, you cannot check in online. Proceed to the special pet check-in counter at the airport. Turkish Airlines provides dedicated pet check-in counters, especially at major airports like Istanbul Airport.
• Security Screening: Your pet and carrier will undergo security screening. It’s advisable to arrive at the airport well in advance to accommodate this process.

6. In-Flight Experience

• Cabin Environment: The cabin is pressurized and temperature-controlled, ensuring a comfortable environment for your pet.
• During the Flight: Pets must remain in their carriers under the seat in front of you throughout the flight. It’s advisable to check with the cabin crew if you can briefly open the carrier to comfort your pet, as policies may vary.

7. Arrival and Post-Flight

• Pet Relief Areas: Major airports, including Istanbul Airport, offer pet relief areas equipped with facilities for your pet’s needs. These areas are typically located just outside security.
  Siberian Reinhardt
• Customs and Immigration: Upon arrival, proceed to the designated area for passengers traveling with pets. Ensure you have all necessary documentation ready for inspection.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Journey

1. Pre-Flight Preparation: Acclimate your pet to the carrier well in advance of the trip. Place familiar items inside, such as a favorite blanket or toy, to reduce stress.
2. Hydration: Ensure your pet has access to water during the journey. Some carriers come with attachable water dispensers.
3. Exercise: Before the flight, provide your pet with ample exercise to help them relax during the journey.
4. Calmness: Maintain a calm demeanor, as pets can sense their owner’s emotions. A relaxed owner often leads to a relaxed pet.
5. Documentation: Keep all necessary documents, including health certificates and vaccination records, easily accessible.
6. Arrival Time: Arrive at the airport early to accommodate the check-in process and any additional procedures for traveling with pets.
7. Post-Flight Care: After arrival, take your pet to the designated relief area to allow them to relieve themselves and stretch their legs.

Shop These Essentials Now:

• > High-quality carrier with extra padding
• >  Soft-sided carriers
• > Microchip for identification.
• > Vest for easy identification.
• > A light meal
• > Designated harness
• > Sanitizing wipes

Personal Experience: Flying with My Cat

Traveling with my cat on Turkish Airlines was a positive experience. The check-in process was straightforward, and the staff was very friendly and accommodating. My cat was placed in her carrier under the seat in front of me, and though she was a bit nervous initially, the overall atmosphere on board was calm, which helped her feel more comfortable as the flight went on. From my own personal experience, I found that having her accustomed to the carrier before the flight made all the difference. She didn’t fuss too much, and I was able to enjoy the flight, knowing she was safe and secure in the cabin with me.

The Right Carrier for Your Pet

One of the key factors in ensuring a smooth flight experience with Turkish Airlines is selecting the right carrier for your pet. From my own personal experience, I found that using a soft-sided carrier allowed for a little more flexibility when it came to squeezing it under the seat in front of me. While hard-sided carriers can be sturdier and offer better protection, soft-sided ones often have more forgiving dimensions for fitting under the seat.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the carrier types:

• Soft-Sided Carriers: These carriers are flexible and can expand slightly to make your pet more comfortable. They’re also lightweight and often more portable. However, make sure the one you choose complies with Turkish Airlines’ requirements for cabin dimensions.
• Hard-Sided Carriers: These carriers are sturdier and provide more protection, which is ideal for larger pets. However, they are bulkier, and sometimes it can be harder to fit them under the seat. If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, this type is often the better choice.

Make sure the carrier is well-ventilated, large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, and that it has secure closures to prevent your pet from escaping.

 Turkish Airlines’ Pet Travel Fees

Turkish Airlines charges a pet transportation fee, and the amount depends on the route and the size of the pet. While the fees can vary, as of my last experience, the general fee for pets traveling in the cabin ranged from approximately €50 to €200, depending on the destination. For pets traveling in the cargo hold, the fee could be higher due to the added space and resources required for their transport. It’s always a good idea to check the Turkish Airlines website or contact customer service for the most accurate pricing.

Preparing for Your Pet’s Health and Safety

Another important aspect of traveling with your pet is ensuring their health and safety during the journey. From my own personal experience, I learned that the better prepared you are in this area, the smoother the trip will be. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Health Certificates: As mentioned earlier, you will need a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. This document should include proof of vaccinations and confirmation that your pet is fit to travel. Make sure to obtain the certificate within the required timeframe (typically within 7 days of your flight), and keep a copy handy for airport check-in and customs.
• Vaccinations: Depending on your destination, some countries may require proof of specific vaccinations (e.g., rabies) before allowing your pet entry. Turkish Airlines requires pets to have up-to-date vaccinations, so it’s important to check the specific vaccination requirements for both your departure and arrival countries. This will ensure that your pet won’t face any delays or complications at customs.
• Microchip: I highly recommend having your pet microchipped, even if it isn’t required for the flight. It provides an extra layer of identification in case your pet gets lost during travel or upon arrival.
• Pre-Flight Health Check: Take your pet to the vet for a general health check-up a few days before your flight. This will help ensure they are fit to fly and can help address any potential health concerns that might arise.

What to Expect During the Flight

During the flight itself, your pet will need to remain in their carrier for the duration of the trip. As mentioned earlier, Turkish Airlines’ cabin environment is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure your pet’s comfort. If your pet is nervous or anxious, I found that talking to them in a calm, soothing voice can help. You can also keep your pet’s favorite blanket or toy in their carrier to comfort them.

Here are a few tips that I found helpful:

• Frequent Checks (If Allowed): While you’re not allowed to remove your pet from the carrier during the flight, you can occasionally check on them, especially if the flight is long. However, make sure to follow any guidelines set by the crew, as policies may vary.
• Comfortable Temperature: Turkish Airlines ensures that the cabin temperature is comfortable for both pets and passengers. However, make sure you dress your pet appropriately for the flight, especially if your destination has a significant temperature difference.
• Calm Before Takeoff: The noise and motion of the plane can be unsettling for pets, so I recommend calming your pet before takeoff. Some pets might benefit from a mild sedative prescribed by the vet, but always consult your veterinarian before considering this option.

Arriving at Your Destination

Once you’ve landed, it’s time to pick up your pet and head out to explore your destination. From my own personal experience, I’ve found that airports with pet relief areas (such as Istanbul Airport) make the post-arrival process easier. These pet-friendly zones allow your pet to stretch their legs and relieve themselves after a long flight.

At the customs and immigration checkpoint, be prepared to show the necessary documentation, such as your pet’s health certificate and vaccination records. Depending on your destination, there may be additional regulations or inspections, so having all your paperwork in order will save you time and avoid stress.

Shop These Essentials Now:

• > High-quality carrier with extra padding
• >  Soft-sided carriers
• > Microchip for identification.
• > Vest for easy identification.
• > A light meal
• > Designated harness
• > Sanitizing wipes

Final Thoughts and Pro Tips for Traveling with Pets

Traveling with your pet on Turkish Airlines can be a pleasant and safe experience if you’re well-prepared. From my own personal experience, I’ve found that preparation is key. Understanding the airline’s policies, choosing the right carrier, getting your pet accustomed to the travel environment, and ensuring their health and safety will go a long way in making the journey smoother.

Here are some final pro tips:

1. Acclimate Your Pet to the Carrier: Start introducing your pet to the carrier weeks before the flight. Make the carrier a comfortable space for them with familiar blankets and toys.
2. Stay Calm and Relaxed: Pets can pick up on their owner’s anxiety, so keeping a calm demeanor will help your pet feel more at ease.
3. Check Pet-Friendly Amenities at Your Destination: Look up pet relief areas and veterinary services at your arrival airport to make your post-flight experience smoother.
4. Know Your Destination’s Pet Regulations: Some countries have strict pet entry requirements. Be sure to research them well in advance.
5. Prepare for Delays: Be prepared for possible delays, and make sure your pet is comfortable and has access to water during any extended waiting periods.

I hope you found this guide helpful! Traveling with pets can be a rewarding experience if done correctly. From my own personal experience, it’s all about preparation, patience, and ensuring that both you and your pet are comfortable every step of the way. I’d love to hear about your own experiences or any tips you might have for traveling with pets on Turkish Airlines! Leave a comment below and share your thoughts, I look forward to hearing from you!