Published in 2025 / Updated in 2026
Singapore Airlines is a cabin-free zone for pets. Unless your dog is a certified service animal, they will be traveling in the climate-controlled, pressurized cargo hold. Don’t worry, though—it’s the same air you’re breathing upstairs!
The “Who’s Who” of Travelers
SIA only accepts domesticated cats and dogs. If you have a prize-winning rabbit or a show-stopping parrot, you’ll need to look for a different carrier.
- The “Three-Month” Club: Your pet must be at least 3 months old to board.
- The “Anti-Sedation” Rule: SIA strictly prohibits sedating or tranquilizing pets. A sleepy pet is a risky pet at 35,000 feet!
- Pregnancy: If your pet is “expecting,” she’ll have to stay grounded.
In-Cabin Policy: Service Dogs Only
Only certified assistance dogs are allowed in the cabin.
- The Age Check: Service dogs must be at least 4 months old.
- The Notification: You must inform SIA at least 48 hours (but ideally 2 weeks) before your flight.
- Note: As of 2023, Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer permitted in the cabin and must travel as checked baggage.
🛑 The “No-Fly” List: Breed Restrictions
Singapore Airlines has a very strict policy regarding brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds. Because these cuties can have trouble breathing under stress, SIA does not accept them in the cargo hold or as checked baggage.
- Banned Dogs: Pugs, Bulldogs (all types), Boxers, Mastiffs, Shih Tzus, Akitas, Chow Chows, and Pit Bulls (including crosses).
- Banned Cats: British Shorthair, Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, Persian, and Scottish Fold.
The Paperwork “Checklist of Champions”
SIA is legendary for its bureaucracy. You must contact the airline at least two weeks prior to departure with your pet’s details (breed, age, weight, and crate dimensions).
What you’ll need at check-in:
- Export/Import Licenses: Valid for the duration of your trip.
- Veterinary Health Certificate: Issued within 7–10 days of travel.
- Rabies Vaccination Letter: Proof your pet is protected.
- SIA Indemnity Form: You’ll sign this at the airport, essentially saying, “I know my pet is flying, and I’m okay with the risks.”
- Microchip Number: This must be clearly listed on all vaccination records.
Costs & Crate Requirements
- Cost: Expect to pay between $150 and $225 USD per segment, depending on the weight and route. Your pet is treated as “excess baggage” and is not part of your free allowance.
- The 32kg Rule: If your pet + the crate weighs more than 32 kg (70 lbs), they cannot travel as checked baggage. You must book them through Singapore Airlines Cargo.
- The Crate: Must be IATA-compliant. Important: SIA requires metal nuts and bolts to secure the two halves of the crate. Plastic latches are a big “no-no.”
🚫 Flight Restrictions (The “No-Go” Routes)
- Boeing 737s: Pets are not allowed on any B737 flights because the cargo holds are not temperature-controlled.
- The Ultra-Long Hauls: Due to the extreme length of the flights, pets are prohibited on SQ21 (Newark to Singapore) and SQ23 (New York to Singapore).
- The NYC Alternative: If you’re coming from the Big Apple, book SQ25 (JFK to Singapore via Frankfurt)—your pet is welcome on this route!
💡 Expert Tips for 2026:
- The Connection Rule: SIA does not accept pets transferring from other airlines. Your entire journey must be on Singapore Airlines metal.
- The “Puppy Pile”: Up to two puppies/kittens from the same litter (under 6 months old and under 14kg each) can share a single crate.
- Doha Transit: If you are transiting through Singapore, your pet may be subject to a “stay” at the Changi Animal & Plant Quarantine (CAPQ) station—make sure your transit license is valid!
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