Published in 2025 / Updated in 2026
Ready to say ¡Hola! to a Spanish adventure? If you’re flying with Air Europa in 2026, your pet can come along for the ride, but the rules are as specific as a perfect paella recipe. Whether you’re traveling with a sleek Siamese or a humble hamster, here is everything you need to know to navigate Air Europa’s pet policy like a seasoned jet-setter.
Air Europa is one of the more versatile airlines when it comes to pet species, but they have a strict “no business class” policy for pets on long-haul flights. Here is the 2026 breakdown.
1. In the Cabin (PETC): Small but Mighty
Air Europa is one of the few airlines that allows a wide variety of small guests in the cabin. On short and medium-haul flights, it’s a regular Noah’s Ark!
- Who’s Invited? Dogs, cats, small birds (except birds of prey), fish, aquarium turtles, and even hamsters, guinea pigs, and small rabbits.
- The Weight Limit: Your pet + their carrier must weigh no more than 10 kg (22 lbs) total.
- Note: The animal itself should typically be under 8 kg.
- Carrier Dimensions: Max size is 40 x 30 x 30 cm. It must be a soft, flexible, and ventilated bag.
- The Cost: * Domestic (Spain): ~€35.
- Europe/Canary Islands: ~€50.
- Long Haul: ~€175 (Only dogs and cats allowed; Business Class is a no-pet zone).
2. In the Hold (AVIH): For the Heavyweights
If your dog or cat is too big for the cabin, they’ll enjoy the climate-controlled hold.
- Who Can Go? Only cats and dogs. For any other species (like large birds or ferrets), you’ll need to contact Air Europa Cargo.
- Weight Limit: Up to 50 kg (110 lbs) including the kennel.
- Kennel Size: Maximum dimensions are 83 cm (H) x 121 cm (W) x 134 cm (L). It must be an IATA-approved rigid crate with a metal door.
- The Cost:
- Domestic: ~€90.
- International: ~€350.
3. The “Paws-port” Paperwork
Air Europa requires a full “credentials” check. You’ll need:
- EU Pet Passport: For travel within Europe, this is your golden ticket. It must show a microchip (implanted before the rabies jab!).
- Rabies Vaccination: Must be valid and administered at least 21 days before travel.
- Special Destination Rules: * UK Flights: Pets cannot fly in the cabin or as checked baggage to the UK; they must go via Air Europa Cargo.
- Finland, Ireland, Malta, & Norway: Dogs need an extra treatment for Echinococcus (tapeworm) between 24 and 120 hours before arrival.
🛑 4. Safety & Breed Restrictions
- The Age Rule: Pets must be at least 3 months old.
- Brachycephalic (Snub-Nosed) Breeds: * If they are under 8 kg (with carrier), they can fly in the cabin.
- If they exceed 8 kg, they are strictly prohibited from the hold for safety. This includes Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, and Persian cats.
- Potentially Dangerous Dogs: Breeds like Pit Bulls or Rottweilers must wear a muzzle and be in a reinforced, high-quality crate.
- Number of Pets: One passenger can travel with up to 5 pets total (distributed between cabin and hold). You can even fit 3 puppies/kittens in one cabin carrier if they are from the same litter and under 6 months old!
💡 Expert Tips for Air Europa Flights
- The Check-In Timer: You must arrive at the counter 2 hours before departure. There is a “Written Oath” for pet transport you’ll need to sign on the spot.
- Window Seats Only: In-cabin pets are usually assigned window seats to stay out of the way of the trolley (and feet!).
- Temperature Embargoes: Air Europa may restrict hold travel during extreme heat or cold. Always call ahead if you’re flying in August or January!
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