For most of us, our pets are our family. Just as we wouldn’t leave any other member of our family home alone while we have a fabulous trip, we don’t want to leave our furry friends behind either.
In 2023, 68% of dog owners and 80% of cat owners took their pets on airplane trips. An increasing number took their pets via a chartered plane. Industry experts say the number of animals they’ve carried on private jets rose 86% in two years.
Jet charters offer a safe and comfortable way to travel with your pet. While dogs and cats often have to fly in the cargo hold or under seats on commercial flights, they can sit with the family on a chartered trip.
At Element Aviation, we know that pets are members of your family. We can personalize your flying experience, so your pet is not only with you but also comfortable throughout the entire flight.
Flying Private With Your Pet
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows airlines to make rules about pets on flights. That means every provider can have slightly different policies. However, the majority allow pets on private jets.
“Flying privately allows your pet to be right next to you and people they are familiar with and comfortable with, whereas on a commercial flight you can’t always sit next to people you know,” a private jet customer told CNN.
Flying Private vs. Commercial With Pets: A Comparison
Both commercial and private flights can help you arrive at your destination. However, the differences for your pet—and you—are extensive.
| topic | Private | commercial |
|---|---|---|
| Pet’s location | Free movement in the cabin | Crated in cargo or in a crate under the seat in front of the traveler |
| Number of pets allowed | Essentially unlimited | One per ticketed human for an in-cabin flight |
| Comfort and space | Unlimited | Limited space and movement |
| Stress and anxiety | Low, as the animal is with you at all times | High, as the pet is crated throughout the duration of the trip |
| Flexibility | High, with custom departure times and no layovers | Low, with fixed schedules and potential delays |
| Security and screening | Minimal | High, including hands-on TSA screening |
| Breed and size restrictions | Rare | Common |
| Travel time restrictions | Rare | Common, especially for flat-faced breeds riding in cargo |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Best for | Pet guardians who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and reduced stress | Budget-conscious travelers with small, relaxed, healthy pets |
Benefits of Flying Private With Your Jet
A private jet flight comes with many benefits for both you and your pet. If you’re planning a big trip, considering a jet charter could be a smart move. Here are some of the key benefits of this mode of travel:
Your Pet Stays in the Cabin With You
Most commercial flights require pets to travel in cargo. It’s uncomfortable, and sometimes, it’s a deadly way to fly. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics says 19 pets died in cargo trips in 2019 alone.
On a private flight, your pet stays right by your side throughout the journey. In most cases, your pet won’t even stay inside a crate. You’ll eliminate a huge source of stress for both you and your pet.
More Space & Comfort
American regulations require a pet crate to be just large enough for the animal to stand up and turn around. If you’re bringing your pet in the cabin, it has to fit under the seat in front of you. This isn’t very spacious or comfortable.
On a private flight, your pet can take up as much space as needed. Some aircraft allow for beds, crates, or designated pet areas. You can also just hold your pet instead.
Less Stress & Anxiety
Many pet owners feel deep anxiety when they say goodbye to their pets at the luggage check-in counters. The pet’s journey is filled with loud noises, strangers, and unusual temperatures.
In private flights, the pet is with you at all times. You can provide comfort during scary moments, and you will always know your pet is safe.
Flexible Travel Schedules
Private jet trips are designed with your schedule in mind. You can set departure times that fit your pet’s routine and avoid long layovers and airport wait times. You’ll also land at smaller airports and depart the aircraft quickly.
The result is a trip that’s faster and more comfortable for both you and your pet.
No Breed or Size Restrictions
Commercial airlines require cargo pets to fit in carriers that slide underneath human seats. All other pets go into cargo. And many airlines limit cargo travel during periods of very low or very high temperatures.
These restrictions simply don’t exist on a chartered trip. You can decide when your pet can fly, and they’ll be right by your side during the flight.
Easier Security & Check-In Process
Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) officials must inspect your pet and crate before allowing either on the flight. Nervous pets struggle with this step, and TSA agents can deny them the right to travel.
Private jets have a much more streamlined check-in process with fewer inspections required. Nervous pets may find this much easier to tolerate. Rather than allowing a stranger to pat them down and ruffle their bedding, they’ll be with humans they trust.
Custom In-Flight Experience
Chartered flights allow you to create an environment your pet will love. You can bring blankets, familiar toys, and tasty snacks. These comforts from home can make the flight a delight for your pet.
Some operators offer pet catering, grooming, and onboard veterinary assistance for furry friends. An adjustable cabin temperature also ensures that your pet stays comfortable.
More Direct Flight Options
Chartered jets access smaller airports for takeoff and landing. That means less time in the car looking for airport parking and driving in a rental once you arrive. You’ll also avoid long layovers and unneeded stops.
While your pets may love to go on trips with you, they may want to get to the destination quickly. The streamlined jet charter process makes that possible.
Better Health & Safety Conditions
Keeping your pet with you means protecting them from extreme temperature changes associated with cargo holds. Your pet also won’t run the risk of rough handling from stressed airport crews.
An in-cabin flight also allows you to monitor your pet throughout the flight. You can offer more water, increase the temperature, give them a snack, and otherwise pamper your pet as you fly.
Taking your pet on a commercial flight is a stressful experience for both you and your pet. The concern is amplified if you have a larger pet who must fly in the cargo hold. When you fly private, you don’t have to worry about being separated from your pet. You’re together the entire time.
How to Prepare Your Pet for a Private Jet Flight
While a private flight is typically safe, comfortable, and pleasant for pets, it’s also a little unusual. After all, few household pets fly thousands of miles in a few hours. It pays to help your pet prepare.
Follow these tips from the American Kennel Association:
- Visit the veterinarian. Ensure that your pet is up-to-date on vaccines and has the appropriate paperwork demanded by the destination airport. Get a copy of your pet’s vaccination record to bring with you.
- Pack properly. Bring your pet’s medications, food, and treats. A chew toy can also be a good addition to protect sensitive pet ears during takeoff and landing.
- Start training. Bring your pet to crowded places (like airport parking lots and bus stations) to help them feel comfortable with the new environment. If the setting isn’t brand new to them, they’ll manage the situation a little better.
It’s also smart to give your pet plenty of exercise before the flight, so they’re more likely to sleep while you’re in the air. Monitor your pet as you fly, and be prepared to offer snacks, bathroom breaks, and plenty of reassurance during the trip.
Regulations Regarding Animals on Private Jets
As we mentioned, the FAA allows airline operators to craft rules about pets on their aircraft. That means the guidelines provided by one company may not be the same as those you encounter somewhere else.
Start conversations about pets early with your private jet provider. Tell your operator that you’re bringing a pet, and find out about the experience the company offers.
Find out if your destination has pet rules about vaccines, quarantines, and microchipping. Your operator should help with this research.
We handle every detail of your travel, so you don’t have to worry about any of the hassles, and this includes every aspect of flying with your pet. We go above and beyond to ensure that both you and your pet are comfortable, safe, and supported for the entirety of your trip.
Ensure a Comfortable Flight for You & Your Pet With Element Aviation
At Element Aviation, we treat your pets like members of our family. We’ll design your trip with your pet’s health and comfort in mind.
All you have to do is relax. Contact us to find out how it works and how you can get started today.
Charter a Private Jet
Contact us today to book your next trip and discover the unmatched service and expertise that make Element Aviation your trusted partner in private aviation.
Fact Checked & Reviewed By:
Chris Blanchard has spent more than two decades in the private aviation industry. He began his career with an on-demand charter operator and played a critical role in transforming a small operation into one of the largest and most successful in the country. His experience and commitment to excellence make him a trusted innovator in the field of private aviation.
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Last modified 28 Mar 2025