Sydney, Australia – In a pioneering move set to redefine domestic air travel norms, Virgin Australia is considering allowing small pets to accompany their owners in the cabin on select flights. Outgoing Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka unveiled this prospective change on Thursday, expressing the airline’s aspiration to become the first in the country to introduce such an option.
While the initiative is contingent upon regulatory approval, Virgin aims to roll out these pet-friendly flights on specific domestic routes within the next 12 months. The proposed setup involves dedicated rows on these flights, exclusively reserved for passengers traveling with their small cats or dogs. However, only animals of diminutive size will be eligible for this privilege.
Pet owners opting for this service will be required to house their furry companions in a designated pet carrier, securely placed under the seat in front of them. Importantly, pets will not be permitted to roam freely or occupy laps throughout the duration of the flight.
Virgin Australia’s outgoing CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, stated, “Overwhelmingly, our guests tell us they want to travel with their pets, and we are now on a journey to make that a reality. It’s something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well.”
Approximately 70% of Australian households have pets, making this announcement highly significant for a large portion of the country. Hrdlicka emphasized the positive impact on pet-friendly accommodation providers, anticipating increased connectivity and convenience for travelers choosing to fly with their pets. This initiative is poised to create a new sector within the Australian travel economy, catering specifically to pet travel needs.
The proposed changes will not affect existing arrangements for approved service animals. Passengers with larger pets can still opt to transport them as cargo, maintaining the current protocol. The success of this endeavor relies on navigating the regulatory landscape, and Virgin Australia aims to pioneer a shift towards more inclusive and pet-friendly air travel experiences.
