The Turkish Airlines Pet Policy allows passengers to travel with eligible pets on domestic and international flights, subject to the airline’s rules and destination regulations. Turkish Airlines accepts cats, dogs, and certain small pet birds for travel in the cabin or aircraft hold, depending on the animal’s size, weight, and breed. Passengers must meet carrier requirements, health documentation rules, and reservation procedures before departure. Since pet travel availability is limited on each flight, it’s recommended to book early. This guide explains everything you need to know about the Turkish Airlines pet policy, including cabin travel, cargo transportation, fees, restrictions, documentation, and helpful travel tips.
What Is the Turkish Airlines Pet Policy?
The Turkish Airlines Pet Policy outlines the rules for transporting pets safely while ensuring the comfort of both animals and passengers.
Eligible pets may travel:
- In the passenger cabin
- In the aircraft hold (AVIH)
- Through Turkish Cargo for larger animals
The travel option depends on:
- Pet species
- Combined weight of the pet and carrier
- Carrier dimensions
- Aircraft type
- Destination regulations
Advance approval is required because the number of pets permitted on each flight is limited.
Does Turkish Airlines Allow Pets?
Yes. Turkish Airlines allows certain household pets to travel on eligible flights.
Pets generally accepted include:
- Cats
- Dogs
- Small songbirds (such as budgerigars and canaries)
Animals outside these categories may require transportation through Turkish Cargo or may not be accepted, depending on airline and destination rules.
Which Pets Are Allowed?
Turkish Airlines generally accepts the following pets:
Cats
Healthy domestic cats may travel in the cabin or aircraft hold if they meet the airline’s requirements.
Dogs
Most domestic dogs may travel, provided they meet size, breed, and documentation requirements.
Small Birds
Only certain small pet birds, including:
- Budgerigars
- Canaries
may travel in the cabin under approved conditions.
Pets Allowed in the Cabin
Small pets may travel inside the passenger cabin.
To qualify:
- The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
- The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
- The pet must remain inside the carrier throughout the flight.
This option is generally the most comfortable for small animals because they stay with their owner during the journey.
Cabin Carrier Size Requirements
For pets traveling in the cabin, the carrier should not exceed:
- Height: 23 cm
- Width: 30 cm
- Length: 40 cm
The carrier should also be:
- Leak-proof
- Well ventilated
- Securely closed
- Comfortable for the pet to stand and turn around
Soft-sided carriers may be accepted if they meet the airline’s requirements.
Pets Traveling in the Aircraft Hold
Pets that exceed the cabin weight limit may travel in the aircraft hold (AVIH), provided they meet the airline’s requirements.
For hold transport:
- Combined weight of pet and carrier must not exceed 50 kg.
- The carrier must meet airline and IATA safety standards.
- The crate must provide adequate ventilation and space.
The aircraft hold used for animals is temperature-controlled and pressurized.
Carrier Size for Hold Travel
For pets traveling in the hold, the carrier generally must not exceed:
- Height: 75 cm
- Width: 75 cm
- Length: 125 cm
The crate should be:
- Durable
- Escape-proof
- Properly ventilated
- Labeled with the owner’s contact information
Turkish Airlines Pet Reservation Process
Passengers should reserve space for their pet as early as possible.
Generally, the process includes:
Step 1
Book your own flight.
Step 2
Contact Turkish Airlines to request pet transportation.
Step 3
Provide:
- Pet type
- Weight
- Carrier dimensions
- Route
Step 4
Receive confirmation that pet space is available.
Step 5
Prepare the required travel documents.
Step 6
Arrive at the airport early for check-in.
Because the number of pets allowed on each flight is limited, approval is not guaranteed until confirmed by the airline.
Turkish Airlines Pet Fees
Pet transportation is not included in the standard ticket price.
The amount depends on factors such as:
- Domestic or international travel
- Cabin or hold transportation
- Route
- Pet size
- Weight
Turkish Airlines provides an online pet fee calculator to estimate transportation charges before travel.
Turkish Airlines Pet Fee Calculator
Passengers can estimate transportation costs using the airline’s official pet fee calculator before booking.
The calculator considers:
- Departure airport
- Arrival airport
- Pet transportation method
Using the calculator helps travelers estimate costs in advance.
Documents Required for Pet Travel
Depending on the destination, passengers may need:
- Valid health certificate
- Vaccination records
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- Import permits
- Export permits
- Microchip documentation (where required)
Destination countries may have additional entry requirements.
Travelers should verify local regulations before departure.
Microchip Requirements
Many international destinations require pets to be identified with an ISO-compatible microchip before travel.
Passengers should confirm the entry requirements of their destination country well before departure.
Vaccination Requirements
Most international destinations require:
- Current rabies vaccination
- Age-appropriate vaccinations
- Health certification issued within the required timeframe
The exact requirements vary by country.
Service Animals
Turkish Airlines accepts eligible service animals in accordance with applicable regulations.
Passengers traveling with service animals should:
- Notify the airline in advance
- Provide any required documentation
- Review destination-specific entry rules
Service animals follow different rules from household pets.
Emotional Support Animals
Turkish Airlines does not automatically treat emotional support animals the same as trained service animals.
Passengers traveling with emotional support animals should verify the airline’s current requirements before booking, as regulations differ by destination and applicable law.
Breed Restrictions
Certain dog breeds may be subject to transportation restrictions because of safety or health concerns.
Additionally, some snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds may have special transportation requirements due to breathing sensitivity.
Passengers should verify breed eligibility before making travel arrangements.
Can Two Pets Travel Together?
Depending on the circumstances, Turkish Airlines may allow multiple pets under specific conditions.
However:
- Cabin limits apply.
- Pets must meet carrier requirements.
- Species compatibility rules apply.
- Flight capacity restrictions may limit availability.
The airline determines approval based on operational considerations.
Pet Policy for Domestic Flights
Passengers traveling within Türkiye can transport eligible pets under the airline’s domestic pet policy.
Requirements generally include:
- Advance reservation
- Approved carrier
- Applicable transportation fee
- Required health documentation
Pet Policy for International Flights
International pet travel involves additional requirements.
Passengers should verify:
- Import permits
- Export documentation
- Vaccination rules
- Quarantine regulations
- Country-specific restrictions
Some countries prohibit the entry of certain animals or breeds.
Airport Check-In Requirements
Passengers traveling with pets should arrive earlier than standard check-in times.
Bring:
- Booking confirmation
- Pet reservation approval
- Health documents
- Vaccination records
- Approved carrier
Early arrival allows sufficient time for document verification.
Pet Travel Rules
Before traveling, remember these important rules:
- Reserve pet space early.
- Keep pets inside the carrier during the flight.
- Ensure carriers meet airline size requirements.
- Bring all required health documents.
- Confirm destination regulations.
- Follow airline check-in instructions.
- Review breed restrictions before booking.
What Happens If Your Pet Does Not Meet the Requirements?
If a pet does not satisfy the airline’s transportation requirements, Turkish Airlines may refuse carriage.
Common reasons include:
- Oversized carrier
- Missing health documents
- Excess weight
- Restricted breed
- Inadequate crate
- Failure to obtain advance approval
Checking the requirements before travel can help avoid disruptions.
Tips for Traveling With Pets on Turkish Airlines
Planning ahead can make your journey more comfortable for both you and your pet.
Book Early
Pet space is limited and may fill quickly.
Choose the Correct Carrier
Use an airline-approved carrier that meets the published size limits.
Visit Your Veterinarian
Schedule a health examination before your trip.
Verify Destination Rules
Import requirements differ by country.
Keep Your Pet Comfortable
Place a familiar blanket or toy inside the carrier if permitted.
Arrive Early
Allow extra time for document checks and pet processing at the airport.
Common Reasons Pets Are Denied Boarding
A pet may not be accepted if:
- Documentation is incomplete.
- Carrier dimensions exceed the limits.
- Combined weight exceeds the permitted allowance.
- Advance approval was not obtained.
- The pet appears ill or distressed.
- Destination entry requirements are not satisfied.
Preparing in advance greatly reduces the risk of travel delays.
Final Thoughts
The Turkish Airlines Pet Policy provides safe and convenient travel options for passengers flying with cats, dogs, and certain small pet birds. Small pets weighing 8 kg (17.6 lbs) or less, including the carrier, may travel in the cabin, while larger animals can be transported in the aircraft hold if they meet the airline’s crate and weight requirements. Since pet travel is subject to limited availability, documentation requirements, and destination-specific regulations, passengers should reserve their pet’s space well in advance and carefully review all travel requirements before departure. Proper planning, accurate paperwork, and an airline-approved carrier will help ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey for both you and your pet.
Turkish Airlines Pet Policy FAQs
Can pets travel in the cabin under the Turkish Airlines Pet Policy?
Yes, Turkish Airlines allows eligible cats, dogs, and small birds to travel in the cabin.
What pets are allowed under the Turkish Airlines Pet Policy?
Turkish Airlines accepts cats, dogs, and certain small birds, subject to route and regulations.
How much does Turkish Airlines charge for pet travel?
Turkish Airlines pet fees vary based on destination, pet size, travel class, and route.
What is the cabin pet weight limit on Turkish Airlines?
Under the Turkish Airlines Pet Policy, pet and carrier weight limits may apply.
Can large dogs travel on Turkish Airlines flights?
Yes, larger dogs may travel in the aircraft hold, subject to Turkish Airlines requirements.
How do I add a pet to my Turkish Airlines reservation?
Contact Turkish Airlines before departure to request pet transportation and confirm availability.
Does Turkish Airlines require health certificates for pets?
Yes, Turkish Airlines may require vaccination records and health certificates for pet travel.
Can service dogs fly free under the Turkish Airlines Pet Policy?
Yes, trained service dogs may travel free, subject to Turkish Airlines documentation requirements.
Are pets allowed on international Turkish Airlines flights?
Yes, pets can travel internationally if they meet Turkish Airlines and destination country regulations.
What carrier requirements apply under the Turkish Airlines Pet Policy?
The carrier must be secure, ventilated, leak-proof, and comply with Turkish Airlines size restrictions.
Can I book pet travel online with Turkish Airlines?
Pet reservations usually require approval, so Turkish Airlines recommends contacting customer support directly.
When should I notify Turkish Airlines about traveling with a pet?
Notify Turkish Airlines as early as possible because pet space is limited on flights.
