ITA Airways

Service Animals (In-Cabin & Support)

ITA Airways allows passengers to travel with trained and recognized guide and service dogs as carry-on free of charge.

• For connecting flights, check the rules of the applicable airlines to ensure your dog is accepted on board.
• A training certificate on headed paper or duly stamped by the relevant dog center/institution must be submitted, certifying the dog as a service dog.
• Service dogs are not subject to quotas.
• Service must be requested at least 48 hours before flight departure and is confirmed after documentation review.

General travel requirements:

• The dog must be accustomed to obeying and behaving appropriately in public (no barking, growling, or attacking people or animals).
• Small dogs may travel without a pet carrier but must use a leash and muzzle if requested by the captain.
• Guide dogs must remain under the seat in front and wear their harness.
• On board, the dog must be under the passenger's direct control at all times and must not sit on seats or block emergency exits.

The dog is entitled to travel free of charge, even if traveling in the hold.

The passenger is liable for any damage or additional costs resulting from traveling with the dog.

In-Cabin Carrier Details

Travelling with pets as carry-on is subject to the following conditions:

• Animals must be kept inside an appropriate soft-sided, semi-rigid, or rigid carrier.
• The carrier must be properly ventilated and kept closed for the entire flight to prevent the pet from escaping, even partially.
• For safety reasons, pets must remain inside the carrier until disembarkation is complete.
• The total weight of the pet, carrier, and food must be up to 12 kg on flights within Italy and up to 10 kg on all other flights.
• The carrier dimensions must not exceed:
  • 24 cm in height
  • 40 cm in length
  • 30 cm in width (20 cm on international and intercontinental flights)
• If the carrier exceeds these dimensions, the pet may not be allowed onboard.
• The carrier must be well ventilated, waterproof, and resistant, allowing the pet to sit, turn, and lie down comfortably.
• The carrier may contain up to 5 animals of the same species, provided the total weight (animals, carrier, and food) stays within the limits above.

In Cargo Carrier Details

Travelling with pets in the hold is subject to the following conditions:

• The pet must travel in a rigid carrier made of fiberglass or rigid plastic.
• If the carrier has wheels, they must be removed; if retractable, secured with adhesive tape.
• Pet carriers must have:
  • A metal door with locking system featuring upper, central, and lower locks.
  • Side air vents made of metal, not plastic.
• Carrier size may vary depending on the aircraft.

Recommendations for your pet's comfort before and during the flight:

• Get your pet used to the carrier at least 5 days before the trip, placing it inside for about two hours at a time and rewarding it afterwards.
• Ensure your pet drinks regularly in small quantities before departure.
• Feed your pet up to 4 hours before the flight and provide enough food for the trip duration.
• Place a blanket, newspaper, or other absorbent material at the bottom of the carrier; straw is not allowed.
• Your pet should never wear a leash or muzzle inside the carrier; do not leave these accessories inside.
• Your pet must not be physically fatigued or injured; consult your veterinarian to confirm fitness for travel.
• Include at least one empty bowl secured and accessible inside the carrier, even when closed.

If these conditions are not met or if your pet disturbs other passengers, the captain may move it to the hold.

Travelling with pets is allowed on all aircraft, though maximum allowed size onboard may vary. Please inquire in advance with Assistance.