Pet Air Travel: Can Pets Travel in the Cabin to the UK?

Name: Matt
Estimated Move Date: 15th November 2015
Reason: Personal
From: Mexico City, Mexico
To: London Heathrow, UK
Pet: Ishmael, Tabby cat, 6 years, 13lbs

Hi PetRelocation,

 

What is currently the cheapest way to transport a cat to the UK from Mexico City? British Airways cargo partner IAG quoted me US $2,200!! Do any airlines allow cats in the cabin or as baggage into the UK? My cat is too awesome to leave behind.

 

Thank you,

Matt
 

 

Hi Matt,

 

Thanks for your question! We definitely understand not wanting to leave your cat behind and we'd be happy to help with some information.

 

The UK is a fairly strict country when it comes to importing pets, and all pets must arrive via cargo. We often use British Airways because they have a solid pet safe program, however we do understand that this endeavor can be expensive.

 

You can refer to the official UK government website to find out more details about approved routes and UK pet import rules. You can also review our UK Pet Travel Spotlight for more tips and personal stories about traveling to the UK with pets. Again, there really isn't much wiggle room but these resources can help you find out how to adequately prepare and how to avoid quarantine upon arrival.

 

Other options include flying to another nearby country and then making your way to the UK, just know that this will also require careful planning to make sure you have the right paperwork, etc. Finally, here are a few ways to control the costs of pet travel if you're looking for additional money-saving ideas.

 

Hope this helps! Please let us know if we can be of additional assistance. Good luck!