Moving your pet by air from Kenya involves a lot of planning — not just for health checks and paperwork, but also to choose the right airline. Whether you’re flying your cat or dog abroad or to a different city, knowing which carriers accept pets and under what conditions is crucial. Here are some of the top airlines used for pet transport from Kenya, along with their current 2025 pet‑travel policies.
1. Kenya Airways
- Policy: Pets are not allowed in the passenger cabin. According to Kenya Airways, live animals (except fully trained service or guide dogs) must travel as cargo. Kenya Airways+2Woofly+2
- Exceptions: Service dogs are accepted in the cabin, but they must be certified and documented. Kenya Airways+1
- Booking: For pet transport, you need to book via Kenya Airways Cargo. BringFido
- Notes: IATA-compliant crates and veterinary certificates are required, and cargo space is limited. Woofly
2. Qatar Airways
- Policy: According to their site, Qatar Airways accepts dogs, cats, and certain birds as checked baggage. qatarairways.com
- Restrictions: Some breeds are restricted, especially those susceptible to heat or respiratory issues. qatarairways.com
- Documentation: You’ll need a health certificate, vaccination record, and a suitable airline-approved kennel. qatarairways.com
- Important: Emotional support animals are not accepted in the cabin. qatarairways.com
3. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
- Policy: KLM (flights from Kenya) allows both in-cabin and cargo transport for dogs and cats, depending on size and route. klm.co.ke+1
- Weight Limits: For cabin travel, the pet plus carrier must not exceed 8 kg. klm.co.ke
- Special Cases: Some breeds (e.g., snub-nosed dogs or cats) may not be allowed in the hold. klm.co.ke
- Service Dogs: Trained service dogs can travel in-cabin with documentation. klm.co.ke
- Booking Tip: Make a pet reservation early, once you’ve booked your own ticket — space is limited.
4. Lufthansa
- Cabin Travel: Small dogs and cats (with container) are allowed in the cabin if they weigh ≤ 8 kg (pet + carrier). Lufthansa+1
- Cargo / Excess Baggage: For larger pets, Lufthansa allows transport in a climate-controlled cargo hold. Lufthansa+1
- Container Requirements: The crate must be IATA-approved, leak-proof, and secure. Lufthansa
- Booking & Fees: You need to register your pet in advance (≥ 72 hours before flight) for either cargo or cabin transport. Lufthansa
- Cost: There are veterinarian and handling fees for pet cargo. Lufthansa Cargo
Things to Consider When Choosing an Airline for Pet Travel
- Check Pet Policy Updates: Always verify the current pet policy on the airline’s website — rules change frequently.
- Health & Documentation: Make sure you have a recent vet certificate, vaccinations, and any required import/export permits.
- Crate Requirements: Use an IATA‑compliant kennel. Measure your pet + carrier weight carefully.
- Booking Timing: Book early. Cargo pet space fills up fast, and cabin spots for pets are very limited.
- Destination Regulations: The country you’re flying to may have its own pet import restrictions. Research these well in advance.
How Pet Pathways Logistics Can Help
At Pet Pathways Logistics, we support pet owners in managing:
- Airline coordination (help picking a pet‑friendly carrier airline)
- Documentation (vet checks, health certificates, IATA crate advice)
- Booking logistics (especially for cargo bookings)
- Safe packaging and pre-flight preparation
If you’re planning to fly your pet from Kenya, we can guide you through every step — so your pet travels safely, legally, and with care.
