Private dog-friendly airlines | Animal Wellness Magazine

See how dog-first aviation services are redefining air travel with in-cabin seating, no cargo holds, and stress-free perks for every canine passenger.

When it comes to air travel, dog parents want safety and comfort for their four-legged friends. Thanks to the introduction of private dog-friendly airlines, canines of all sizes can fly stress-free with their families. Your dog can relax in your lap, lie by your feet, or even enjoy a seat of her own. No more cargo holds! Let’s take a look at what’s out there. 

How private aviation services are revolutionizing air travel for dogs

Private airlines that prioritize comfortable, humane, stress-free travel for dogs include Retriev Air and Bark Air. They allow animals to have a “pet-first” experience with no cargo holds, no carriers, and no size restrictions. 

• Retriev Air was launched in May 2025. It operates in a similar fashion to a train or bus, with passengers paying for each “leg” of their journey. For example, a flight from LA to Denver is a “one leg” flight; LA to Chicago is “two legs”. 

The company’s jets fly out of additional major US cities, including New York, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, and others. 

At each stop along the way, you have an opportunity to walk your dog and get some refreshments. Smaller terminals help reduce the anxiety and overstimulation dogs can experience at big airports. 

The crew spaces animals apart during boarding, and boards you from back to front of the aircraft. This helps prevent your dog from getting stressed and over-excited by the close proximity of other dogs. 

Passengers pay by the seat to give themselves and their animals as much room as they need. Dogs under 40 pounds can sit on your lap or by your feet. You must book a separate seat for larger dogs You must leash or harness your dog to the seat for taxiing, takeoff and landing, and during turbulence. 

Retriev Air offers in-flight treats and water for your dog, as well as complimentary drinks and snacks for you. All in-flight crew have been trained in proper animal handling.

As a bonus, the airline puts a focus on social impact. It partners with several animal rescue organizations, such as the Sato Project, to help fly adopted animals to their new forever homes.

• Bark Air, another private airline for dogs, launched in the spring of 2024. It currently serves New York City, Los Angeles and San Francisco. The airline also offers international flights to London, Paris, Madrid and Lisbon. They plan to begin New York to Florida flights soon. 

The company partners with US air carriers that that take sole responsibility for operating the aircraft. That way, Bark Air can concentrate on prioritizing your dog’s safety, comfort and happiness. You can design your own route or charter a short hop to connect with one of their scheduled flights.

Perks include a “Just in Case Bag” containing calming treat aids, pee pads, poop bags, cleaning supplies and more. Also on offer is a “Dogs Fly First” flight prep with calming pheromones and music. You even have access to aids such as noise-cancelling earmuffs and calming jackets for your dog. 

During the in-cabin flight (no cargo hold or crate), the crew provides treats for your dog. These are served with water or bone broth. In-flight services also include an optional brush, refreshing wipe, and paw and nose balm. 

It’s important to note that both airlines require up-to-date rabies vaccines. Additionally, you will pay more for tickets than you would for a commercial airline. But knowing your dog can travel in the cabin with you, and will be pampered and well taken care of throughout the flight, is worth the extra cost. 

Private dog-friendly airlines point to a new era of hospitality where animals are no longer relegated to the cargo hold. Instead, they’re treated as honored guests, traveling in comfort and safety. 

As Retriev Air puts it: “Pets deserve to be part of every journey, regardless of their size. Every pet rides in the cabin, every family stays together, and every trip feels like freedom.”

Preparing your dog for air travel 

According to a 2024 GlobalVetLink survey, 78% of American animal parents now travel with their fur-babies. With Gen Z and Millennials leading the trend, demand for dog-friendly airline travel is expected to grow.

“Air travel can be stressful for pets, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be,” says veterinarian Dr. Nelva Bryant. “Whether a pet is flying commercially or on a private jet, their comfort and safety should always come first.”

Dr. Bryant became the first on-staff airline veterinarian for a major U.S. carrier, where she helps shape animal welfare policies for safe and humane transport.

“Pets should be healthy, properly identified with an ISO-compliant microchip, and well-prepared for the journey ahead,” she advises. For commercial flights, “crate acclimation is one of the most important steps you can take. Pets need time to become familiar and relaxed in their travel crate. It should feel like a safe space, not a strange box on travel day.” 

Dr. Bryant adds that for private jets, where dogs often travel outside their crates or carriers, a familiar blanket, mat, or harness helps them feel secure. “Above all, avoid sedation and focus on calm, positive experiences. Compassionate preparation is what makes every journey safer and more humane.”

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