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Virgin Australia will expand its pets-in-cabins service as it prepares to mark its 1,000th pet carried.
The airline, which launched the service in October, has said it intends to continue offering the option, with plans to grow it to select flights to and from Adelaide and Launceston. It follows an announcement last month that the trial would be extended to the end of June.
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“This month marks a huge milestone for our Pets in Cabin services, with our 1,000th furry friend on track to take to the skies. The response to our Australian-first Pets in Cabin offering has far surpassed our expectations which shows the sheer demand for the offering,” said Virgin Australia chief marketing and customer operations officer Libby Minogue.
“For many Australians, pets are family, and being able to travel together removes a major barrier to taking a holiday or visiting loved ones. Our intention to continue offering Pets in Cabin services reflects how strongly the service has resonated with our customers.
“We are also continuing to work with our airport partners to expand the service to additional locations, including Adelaide and Launceston, meaning even more Australians will soon be able to enjoy flying with their four-legged family members.
“We will continue to review the service to ensure it operates safely and reliably for all guests.”
Virgin currently allows pets on flights between Melbourne and the Gold Coast, and between Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast.
According to veterninarian Katrina Warren, who has worked with Virgin on the trial, the expansion “shows just how much Australians value travelling with their pets and keeping them close”.
“Taking steps to broaden the service is a positive move for pet families, and it’s encouraging to see momentum building,” she said.
The only pets allowed on board Virgin flights are small dogs or cats in approved carriers, at an extra charge of $149. The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 8kg, and they must be stowed under the seats in front at 18A, 18F, 20A, and 20F.
Carriers must be soft-sided and leak-proof, and pets will not be allowed out during the flight. Owners should also make use of external animal relief areas before entering the airport.
Service animals will continue to be allowed on flights as normal, and guests may still arrange to have pets transported in the hold as cargo.
Virgin’s main rivals, Qantas and Jetstar, do not plan to follow suit and allow pets at this stage.
