KLM Pet Travel Policy: Everything You Need

to Know

As pet owners, we always want to ensure that our furry companions are comfortable and safe, even when we have to travel by air. That's where KLM Royal Dutch Airlines come in, offering pet travel services to make sure our pets have a stress-free journey. In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information you need to know about KLM pet travel policy, including what pets are allowed, what the requirements are, and what fees are involved.

KLM Pet Travel Policy Overview

KLM Pet Travel Policy allows pet owners to travel with their furry companions in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on the pet's size and weight. KLM only accepts cats and dogs as pets, with some exceptions for birds and other small pets. Pets must meet specific requirements to travel, including having a pet passport and health certificate and being in an airline-approved crate.

Types of Pets Allowed

KLM only allows cats and dogs to travel as pets. However, there are some exceptions for other small pets and birds, which can travel as cargo. You must contact KLM's Cargo department to make arrangements for your pet's travel.

Pet Travel Requirements

Pet Passport and Health Certificate

Before your pet can travel with KLM, it must have a pet passport and a health certificate. The pet passport must contain the pet's identification, including a microchip number, and vaccination records. The health certificate must be issued by a licensed veterinarian, stating that the pet is in good health and fit to travel.

Age and Size Requirements

KLM has specific age and size requirements for pets traveling in the cabin or as checked baggage. For pets traveling in the cabin, they must be at least ten weeks old and weigh no more than 17.6 lbs (8 kg). Pets traveling as checked baggage must be at least sixteen weeks old and weigh no more than 165.3 lbs (75 kg).

Crate Requirements

Pets must travel in an airline-approved crate that meets KLM's requirements. The crate must be big enough for the pet to stand up, lie down, and turn around comfortably. It must also be wellventilated, leak-proof, and secure. KLM provides crates for pets traveling as checked baggage, but pet owners must bring their own crates for pets traveling in the cabin.

Fees for Pet Travel

KLM charges a fee for pet travel, which varies depending on the destination and the pet's size and weight. For pets traveling in the cabin, the fee ranges from €35 to €200, while pets traveling as checked baggage will be charged between €70 to €500.

Pet Travel Reservation Process

To reserve your pet's travel with KLM, you must contact the KLM Customer Contact Centre or your travel agent. You must provide all the necessary information, including your pet's breed, age, and weight, and the dimensions of the crate. KLM recommends making your pet's reservation as early as possible since there is a limit to the number of pets allowed on each flight.

Pet Travel Restrictions and Embargo Dates

KLM also imposes some embargo dates, during which pets cannot travel as checked baggage. This is due to operational restrictions or extreme weather conditions that could affect the pet's health and safety. These embargo dates vary depending on the destination and time of year, so it's essential to check with KLM before booking your pet's travel.

Pet Travel Tips

Here are some tips to make your pet's travel with KLM as comfortable and stress-free as possible:

 Prepare your pet for the journey by taking them on short car trips or crate training them beforehand.

 Ensure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations and has a valid pet passport and health certificate.

 Label your pet's crate with your name, contact information, and destination.

 Pack a small bag with food, treats, toys, and a leash in case of any delays or layovers.

 Arrive at the airport early and inform KLM staff that you are traveling with a pet.

 If your pet is traveling in the cabin, bring a small towel or blanket to place under their crate to absorb any accidents.

Conclusion

KLM's pet travel policy provides a safe and convenient way to travel with your pets. By following KLM's guidelines, you can ensure that your furry companion has a stress-free journey. Remember to prepare your pet for the journey, meet all the requirements, and make the necessary reservations early.