AirBaltic Pet Policy: How to transport a pet in 2026

Published in 2025 / Updated in 2026

Exploring the Baltics or flying across Europe with your favorite co-pilot? If you’ve chosen airBaltic for your 2026 travels, you’re in luck. They are one of the most pet-friendly carriers in the sky, famously welcoming “brachycephalic” (snub-nosed) breeds that many other airlines turn away.

To help you navigate the “tail-end” of your travel planning, here is the expert-vetted, guide to the airBaltic Pet Policy for 2026.

airBaltic Pet Policy: The 2026 “Paws-port” to Success

Before you pack the squeaky toys, remember: You must inform airBaltic at the time of booking. Space for animals is strictly limited per flight, and it’s a “first-come, first-served” basis. Don’t let your pet be the one left on the tarmac!

Option 1: In the Cabin (PETC)

Think of this as “Economy Plus: Fur Edition.” If your pet is small enough to fit under the seat, they can travel right by your feet.

Who’s Invited? Small cats and dogs only.
The Weight Limit: Maximum 8 kg (17.6 lbs). This includes the weight of the carrier, so maybe skip the extra treats until you land in Riga!
Carrier Dimensions: Your “pet-suite” must not exceed 55 x 40 x 23 cm.
Bonus Rule: airBaltic allows two pets of the same species in one carrier (as long as they don’t exceed the 8 kg limit). Best friends fly together!
The Cost: Roughly €70 per direction within the EU.

Option 2: In the Cargo Hold (AVIH)

For the big barkers and fluffier travelers, the cargo hold is a pressurized, temperature-controlled “VIP Lounge.”

Who’s Invited? Dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds.
The Weight Limit: Up to 75 kg (165 lbs) total (pet + crate).
Amsterdam (AMS) Alert: Traveling to or from Amsterdam? There is a strict 39 kg limit for pets in the hold. Any heavier, and you’ll need to contact airBaltic Cargo.
Crate Dimensions: Maximum size is 84 x 142 x 84 cm.
The Cost: 1–32 kg: €110
- 33–75 kg: €220

The Documentation Checklist

airBaltic doesn’t just want to see your pet; they want to see their papers. To avoid a customs catastrophe, you’ll need:

EU Pet Passport: The gold standard for European travel.
Microchip: Must be ISO-compliant and implanted before the rabies shot.
Rabies Vaccination: Must be valid and administered at least 21 days prior to travel.
- Note: If it’s a booster given before the previous one expired, the 21-day wait is waived.
Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 15 weeks old (12 weeks for the vaccine + 3 weeks for the immunity to kick in).

🛑 The “No-Fly” Zones

Even the best airlines have boundaries. In 2026, the following rules apply for specific destinations:

United Kingdom, Ireland, Iceland, and UAE: airBaltic does not allow pets in the cabin or as checked baggage to these countries. They must travel via airBaltic Cargo due to local regulations.
Reptiles & Rodents: Sorry, your pet python or hamster will have to find another way to travel; they are generally not permitted in the passenger cabin.

💡 Expert Tips for airBaltic Travelers

The Snub-Nosed Win: Unlike many competitors, airBaltic typically allows brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) in the cabin. However, always consult your vet about the risks of high-altitude breathing for these breeds.
Check-In Early: If your pet is flying in the hold, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight to ensure all paperwork is verified.
Stay Hydrated: Attach a water bowl to the inside of the crate door for cargo travelers.

Official information airline airBaltic on transporting pets on airplanes