Flying with Pets to and Within Japan: Airline Guide

Overview

Flying with pets to and within Japan requires understanding specific airline policies. Japanese domestic airlines handle pets differently from many international carriers — most require pets to travel in the cargo hold rather than the cabin.

International Flights to Japan

Cabin (In-Cabin) Policies Few airlines allow pets in the cabin on Japan routes. Those that do: - Typically limit to small dogs and cats under 8-10kg including carrier - Soft-sided carriers that fit under the seat - Additional fee: $100-400 depending on route

Cargo (Checked Luggage) Policies Most international carriers accept pets as checked luggage: - Hard-sided, airline-approved kennel required - Pet must be able to stand and turn around - Additional fee: $200-1,000+ depending on airline and route - Temperature restrictions may apply (extreme heat/cold)

Japanese Domestic Airlines

ANA (All Nippon Airways) - Pets travel in a **temperature-controlled cargo hold** (not cabin) - Dogs, cats, small birds, rabbits, hamsters, ferrets accepted - Carrier provided by ANA or bring your own (IATA-approved) - Fee: ¥6,600 per domestic flight segment - Summer restrictions: French bulldogs and short-nosed breeds may be refused June-September - Must check in at the ANA counter at least 60 minutes before departure

JAL (Japan Airlines) - Similar to ANA — pets in **cargo hold only** - Dogs, cats, small birds, rabbits, hamsters accepted - Fee: ¥3,300-6,600 depending on kennel size - Online pre-registration required - Short-nosed breeds accepted year-round (different from ANA)

Peach Aviation (LCC) - Does NOT accept pets

Jetstar Japan (LCC) - Does NOT accept pets

Skymark Airlines - Pets accepted in cargo hold - Fee: ¥5,000 per segment - Dogs and cats only

Important Breed Restrictions

Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds face higher risks during air travel: - ANA: Refuses French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs year-round; other short-nosed breeds refused June-September - JAL: Accepts all breeds year-round but requires a signed acknowledgment form - International carriers: Policies vary — always check before booking

Safety Tips

1. 1Visit your vet for a pre-flight health check within 7 days of travel
2. 2Don't sedate your pet (increases risk during pressure changes)
3. 3Freeze a water bowl so it melts slowly during the flight
4. 4Attach "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers to the carrier
5. 5Include an absorbent pad in the carrier
6. 6Fly early morning or late evening in summer to avoid heat
7. 7Book direct flights when possible to reduce stress
8. 8Arrive early — pet check-in takes longer than regular check-in