Airline Temperature Restrictions for Cargo Transport

Home » Information » Pet Travel by Air » Airline Temperature Restrictions for Cargo Transport

Flying live animals, whether pets or livestock, requires careful consideration, particularly during periods of extreme temperatures. Temperature fluctuations can significantly impact the health and safety of animals during air travel. Because your pet’s safety is the primary concern, airline temperature restrictions are imposed on all live animals flying in the cargo hold. Understanding the challenges and precautions associated with flying animals during high or low temperatures is crucial for pet owners.

Airline Temperature Restrictions Pets Flying in the Cargo Hold

All commercial airlines impose temperature restrictions for pets flying in the cargo hold. Generally, if the temperature anywhere along the route (origination airport, layover airport or destination airport) is above 85° F (29° C), the airline will refuse to fly your pet in the cargo hold. This temperature is lower (75-80° F) for brachycephalic (snub- or flat-nosed) breeds.

Alternately, if the temperature anywhere along the route is below 45° F, the airline’s temperature restriction will also apply. Exception: pets who reside in and are accustomed to cold temperatures with thicker coats can contact their airline to see if they will accept an acclimation certificate. This document must be completed by a licensed veterinarian who will attest that your dog or cat is capable of withstanding lower temperatures.

When temperatures fall below 20°F, pets may not be checked, even with a statement of low temperature acclimation.

When is your pet at risk when flying during periods of extreme temperatures?

Did you know that the risks for your pet when flying in the cargo hold during periods of higher or lower temperatures are not when airborne? Your pet is most exposed to risk during these times:

when being held in a cargo facility without heating or air conditioning
on the baggage dock waiting to be loaded,
on the tarmac waiting to be boarded (live animals are boarded last),
when the plane is taxiing to the departure runway
when the plane is waiting for takeoff.

As the cargo hold is low to the ground, it can heat up or cool down pretty fast.

During the months of May through September, your airline may not allow you to transport your pet in the cargo department.
The reason for this restriction is that the heat on the tarmac can heat up the cargo hold quickly. Additionally, many airlines do not have air-conditioned holding areas for pets.

Many airports in areas historically seeing high temperatures in the summer such as Texas and Arizona will be banned by many airlines for all summer months.

Risks to your pet when flying in the cargo hold during periods of high temperatures

Heat Stress: High temperatures can lead to heat stress in animals, especially those with limited ability to regulate their body temperature, such as brachycephalic breeds (e.g., bulldogs, pugs) or animals with thick coats.
Dehydration: Increased temperatures can accelerate dehydration, posing a risk to animals’ health, particularly if they are not provided with adequate water during travel.
Respiratory Issues: Heat can exacerbate respiratory issues in animals, leading to difficulty breathing and discomfort during the flight.
Overheating in Cargo Holds: Animals traveling in cargo holds may be exposed to even higher temperatures than those in the passenger cabin (see above), further increasing the risk of heat-related complications.

Precautions to take when flying your pet in the cargo hold during periods of high temperatures

Choose Optimal Travel Times: Whenever possible, schedule flights during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to minimize exposure to high temperatures. This may hamper your schedule, but it will decrease the possibility of issues related to temperature.
Choose a different airport: Rent a car and drive to another airport where temperatures are cooler. You might have to drive 100 miles or more on departure or arrival to reach the airport, but this can be a solution.
Provide Adequate Ventilation: Ensure that your pet’s crates are well-ventilated to allow for proper airflow and heat dissipation. Brachycephalic pets need to fly in a crate that is one size larger than would ordinarily be required.
Hydration: Offer your pet access to water before and during the flight to prevent dehydration. Consider including frozen water bottles or crate water bowls for longer journeys. Find the largest water bowl available.
Monitor Weather Conditions: Stay informed about weather forecasts along the travel route and at the destination to anticipate potential temperature fluctuations and plan accordingly.

Risks to your pet when flying in the cargo hold during periods of low temperatures

Hypothermia: Cold temperatures can predispose animals to hypothermia, particularly if they are exposed to drafts or insufficient insulation during the flight.
Frostbite: Exposed areas of the body, such as ears, tails, and paws, are susceptible to frostbite in low temperatures, especially if your pet is not adequately protected.
Temperature Variability: Fluctuations in temperature between the cargo hold and the destination environment can pose challenges for acclimatization. This is especially important for animals traveling to significantly colder climates.

Precautions to take when flying your pet in the cargo hold during periods of low temperatures

Choose Optimal Travel Times: – Schedule departure and arrival times during mid-day when temperatures are warmer.
Provide Insulation: Ensure that transportation crates or containers are lined with insulating materials, such as blankets or bedding, to help retain heat and protect animals from cold temperatures. Provide a good pet pad. Know that airlines do not allow pets in crates to be clothed.
Minimize Exposure: Keep layovers short or, better yet, fly direct routes to avoid ground handling. Ask your airline whether their holding areas are heated.
Monitor Animals Closely: Keep a close eye on your pet’s behavior and physical condition when arriving, particularly in response to changing temperature conditions.

Flying live animals during periods of high or low temperatures requires careful planning to ensure your pet’s safety. Have discussions with the airlines regarding their temperature restrictions and also your veterinarian. They both can provide valuable guidance and support in navigating the complexities of flying live animals in various environmental conditions.

Have a comment about temperature restrictions for cargo pet travel? Post it below and be published! You can also reach out by posting to our Blog, X (Twitter), Facebook, or Email or follow our activities on Instagram and TikTok.