Note:

All of the below is based on my own experiences of flying with my 3.5kg Toy Poodle Maui (https://www.instagram.com/maui_the_wowie?igsh=YjJvNjM4MWV1MWh5). I have taken 40+ flights with him in the cabin. I have flown Air India every time. I have flown with him in economy, premium economy, and business class cabins.

While the process is long and some airlines staff members aren’t fully aware of the process, I have never been denied boarding. I have flown out of airports in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Goa, and Ahmedabad.

Reference:

https://www.airindia.com/in/en/travel-information/first-time-flyers/carriage-of-pets.html

Buy before:

• [ ] Pet carrier with mesh sides; max dimensions 12” x 18”” x 18”
• [ ] Muzzle (make sure it fits and doesn’t slip off)
• [ ] Waterproof mat to place inside the pet carrier

Process before:

• [ ] Make sure that your pet + carrier is less than 7kg; that’s the limit for flying in cabin
• [ ] All vaccinations up to date
• [ ] Within 24 hours before your flight, go to a vet and get a “fit to fly certificate”
  • [ ] For example, if your flight is on 25th May 17:10, get the certificate between 24th May 17:10 and 25th May 17:10
  • [ ] The certificate should state that your vet is fully vaccinated, has been checked by the vet, and is fit for travel by flight - with your name, pet’s name, date and time of certificate, vet’s details
• [ ] No need to call / inform airline beforehand

On the day:

• [ ] Carry original vaccination records