Volaris Pet Policy | Traveling with Pets & Fees

Travelling with pets can feel stressful, especially if it’s your first time flying with your furry companion. Fortunately, Volaris provides a structured, clear pet policy to help ensure the safety, comfort, and smooth travel for both pets and their owners.

This detailed guide explains everything about the Volaris pet policy — including cabin travel, cargo transport, fees, documents, international rules, breed restrictions, and expert travel tips.

Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, this guide will help you prepare properly.

Volaris Pet Travel Policy

Volaris understands that pets are part of the family. That’s why the airline offers clear guidelines to help passengers travel safely and comfortably with their furry companions. Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, the Volaris pet travel policy is designed to protect both animals and passengers.

Pets Allowed on Volaris

Volaris allows passengers to travel with:

✔ Dogs
✔ Cats

At this time, other animals such as birds, reptiles, rodents, or exotic pets are not permitted on regular passenger flights.

Ways Pets Can Travel

Depending on your pet’s size and weight, Volaris offers two main travel options:

In the Cabin (For Small Pets)

Small dogs and cats can travel with you inside the aircraft cabin if they:

• Fit comfortably inside an airline-approved carrier
  
• Meet the airline’s weight limits (pet + carrier combined)
  
• Remain inside the carrier throughout the flight
  
• Have proper health documentation
  

The carrier must be well-ventilated, secure, and able to fit under the seat in front of you. Cabin travel helps reduce stress because your pet stays close to you during the flight.

As Checked / Cargo Pets (For Larger Animals)

If your pet exceeds cabin weight limits, they must travel in the aircraft’s designated cargo area. This space is:

• Temperature-controlled
  
• Pressurized
  
• Designed for safe animal transport
  

Cargo travel requires an IATA-approved hard kennel that allows your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

What the Airline Focuses On

The Volaris pet policy is structured around several important principles:

✔ Safety Standards – Ensuring pets travel securely in approved carriers or crates.
✔ Proper Documentation – Requiring vaccination records and health certificates.
✔ Temperature Control – Maintaining safe cabin and cargo conditions.
✔ Animal Comfort – Providing enough space and ventilation.
✔ Breed Safety Rules – Applying restrictions for certain high-risk breeds if necessary.
✔ Stress-Free Travel – Creating clear procedures so owners feel confident about flying with pets.

Traveling With Pets in the Cabin

If your pet is small enough to meet the airline’s size and weight requirements, you can bring them with you inside the aircraft cabin. This option allows your furry companion to stay under the seat in front of you throughout the flight, offering a safer and more comfortable experience for many pets.

Cabin travel is especially popular for short domestic flights and small-breed dogs or cats that feel more secure when close to their owner.

Cabin Requirements

To travel with your pet in the cabin, you must follow these rules:

• ✔ Only cats and dogs are allowed.
  
• ✔ Pet + carrier weight must meet airline limits (commonly up to 22 lbs combined on many routes).
  
• ✔ The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
  
• ✔ The carrier must be well-ventilated and leak-proof.
  
• ✔ Your pet must remain inside the carrier at all times during the flight.
  
• ✔ Soft-sided carriers are recommended because they fit more easily under seats.
  

The carrier should allow your pet to move slightly and lie comfortably, but it must still meet size restrictions.

Additional Requirements

• A valid health certificate may be required.
  
• Vaccination records must be up to date.
  
• Advance booking is necessary because only a limited number of pets are allowed per flight.
  
• Fees apply for cabin pet travel.
  

Why Cabin Travel Is Better

Many pet owners prefer cabin travel because:

✔ It reduces stress for pets.
✔ The cabin is temperature-controlled.
✔ You can see and monitor your pet during the flight.
✔ It avoids cargo handling and loading procedures.
✔ It provides peace of mind for nervous travelers.

Pets often feel calmer when they can hear and smell their owner nearby.

Volaris Pet Cargo / Checked Pet Policy

If your pet is too large to travel in the cabin, they must be transported through Volaris pet cargo services. This option is designed specifically for larger animals and follows strict safety and animal welfare standards.

Cargo travel is regulated and handled carefully to ensure pets are transported in a temperature-controlled and pressurized area of the aircraft. The airline follows international animal transport guidelines to reduce risk and maintain comfort during the journey.

Cargo Kennel Requirements

To travel as checked or cargo pet, you must use an approved hard-sided kennel that meets strict standards.

The crate must:

• ✔ Be hard-sided only (soft carriers are not allowed in cargo).
  
• ✔ Follow IATA (International Air Transport Association) kennel regulations.
  
• ✔ Allow the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without touching the top.
  
• ✔ Have a secure locking system to prevent accidental opening.
  
• ✔ Include properly attached food and water bowls accessible from outside.
  
• ✔ Have proper ventilation on multiple sides.
  

The kennel must also be strong enough to withstand movement during loading and unloading.

Safety Measures for Cargo Travel

Volaris ensures:

• Temperature-controlled cargo area
  
• Pressurized cabin space
  
• Proper loading supervision
  
• Secure handling procedures
  
• Compliance with animal safety standards
  

However, certain weather conditions or breed restrictions may apply for safety reasons.

Cargo Travel Is Ideal For:

✔ Medium-sized dogs
✔ Large dog breeds
✔ Pets exceeding cabin weight limits
✔ International relocations
✔ Long-distance moves

Cargo transport is commonly used for families relocating to another country or traveling with larger pets that cannot fit under a cabin seat.

Additional Requirements

For cargo pet travel, you may need:

• Health certificate from a licensed veterinarian
  
• Vaccination records
  
• Import/export permits (for international flights)
  
• Microchip documentation (depending on destination country)
  

Volaris International Pet Policy

Traveling internationally with a pet involves stricter regulations than domestic flights. Each country has its own animal import rules, and Volaris requires passengers to complete additional documentation before departure. Proper preparation is essential to avoid delays, denied boarding, or quarantine issues.

International pet travel focuses heavily on:

✔ Health verification
✔ Vaccination compliance
✔ Government approvals
✔ Import/export regulations
✔ Destination country requirements

In-Cabin International Pet Travel

Small pets may travel in the cabin on international routes if they meet airline and destination country rules.

Allowed if:

• ✔ Combined weight (pet + carrier) is within airline limits (commonly around 22 lbs).
  
• ✔ Carrier meets required size and ventilation standards.
  
• ✔ Valid vaccination records are up to date.
  
• ✔ A health certificate is issued by a licensed veterinarian within the required timeframe (often 7–10 days before travel).
  
• ✔ The destination country allows in-cabin pet entry.
  

Even if Volaris allows cabin travel, the final approval also depends on the arrival country’s import regulations.

International Cargo Travel

Larger pets must travel as cargo on international routes. This process involves additional paperwork and government clearance.

Required documents may include:

• ✔ Official health certificate from a licensed veterinarian
  
• ✔ Rabies vaccination proof (often mandatory)
  
• ✔ Import/export permits
  
• ✔ Microchip registration (depending on destination country)
  
• ✔ Government approval forms or veterinary endorsements
  

Some countries may also require:

• Rabies titer test
  
• Quarantine period
  
• Advance import authorization
  
• Specific breed restrictions

Country-Specific Requirements – Volaris Pet Travel

When flying internationally with your pet, it’s important to understand that every country has its own entry rules. Even if Volaris approves your pet for travel, the final decision depends on the regulations of the destination country.

Failing to meet country-specific requirements can result in:

• Denied entry
  
• Mandatory quarantine
  
• Return of the pet to the departure country
  
• Additional fines or penalties
  

Proper research and preparation are essential.

Common Country-Specific Requirements

Different countries may require one or more of the following:

Rabies Titer Test

Some destinations require a rabies antibody blood test to confirm vaccination effectiveness.

• Usually done weeks before travel
  
• Must be performed by an approved laboratory
  
• Required by certain rabies-controlled countries
  

Microchipping

Many countries require pets to have:

• ISO-compliant microchip
  
• Microchip implanted before rabies vaccination
  
• Microchip number listed on all health documents
  

Special Import Permits

Certain countries require advance government approval before arrival.

• Application may take days or weeks
  
• Approval letter must be presented upon entry
  

Quarantine Period

Some nations enforce quarantine rules, especially for pets arriving from high-risk rabies regions.

• Duration varies by country
  
• May require pre-booked quarantine facilities
  

Advance Health Clearance

A government-endorsed health certificate may be required within a specific timeframe (often 7–10 days before departure).

Always Verify Before Traveling

Before booking your flight, always check:

✔ Official Volaris pet travel guidelines
✔ The destination country’s government agriculture or veterinary website
✔ Your local licensed veterinarian
✔ Embassy or consulate information (if needed)

Volaris Pet Fees & Charges

Traveling with your pet on Volaris is simple — but understanding the fees and extra charges in advance helps you avoid surprises at the airport. The total cost depends on several factors, including travel type, route, and booking method.

What Determines the Volaris Pet Cost?

The final price for flying with a pet depends on:

1. Route Type

• Domestic Flights (Mexico routes) – Usually lower pet fees
  
• International Flights (U.S., Central America, etc.) – Higher due to additional regulations
  

2. Travel Option

• In-Cabin Pet Travel (small dogs & cats)
  
• Checked / Cargo Pet Travel (medium & large pets)
  

Cargo transport generally costs more because it requires special handling and temperature-controlled areas.

3. Payment Method

• Online booking (recommended) – Usually cheaper
  
• Airport payment – Higher fees may apply
  

4. Destination Country Regulations

Some countries require:

• Extra paperwork processing
  
• Health certificate verification
  
• Import permits
  
• Additional inspections
  

These requirements can increase the overall cost.

Typical Volaris Pet Fees

While fees may change based on route and season, common charges include:

Cabin Pet Fee

• Fixed service charge per flight segment
  
• Pet must stay in approved carrier under seat
  
• Non-refundable once confirmed
  

Cargo / Checked Pet Fee

• Higher fee due to regulated animal handling
  
• Based on kennel size and route
  
• Subject to space availability
  

Airport Service Surcharge

• Applies if pet service is added at the airport
  
• Can be significantly more expensive than pre-booking

Documents Needed to Fly With Pets on Volaris

Before traveling with your pet, having the correct paperwork is extremely important. Missing or incomplete documents can lead to denied boarding, travel delays, or even refusal of entry at your destination.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you may need:

Essential Pet Travel Documents

✔ Updated Vaccination Records

Your pet must have up-to-date vaccinations. Records should clearly show:

• Pet’s name and species
  
• Vaccine type
  
• Date administered
  
• Veterinarian’s signature and license number
  

Some destinations have specific vaccine timelines that must be followed.

✔ Health Certificate (Veterinary Certificate)

A health certificate is typically required and must be:

• Issued by a licensed veterinarian
  
• Dated within the required timeframe (often 5–10 days before travel)
  
• Confirming the pet is fit to fly
  

For international travel, this document may need government endorsement.

✔ Rabies Vaccination Proof

Rabies vaccination is mandatory for most destinations. Requirements may include:

• Minimum age of vaccination
  
• Waiting period after vaccination (often 21–30 days)
  
• Official rabies certificate with batch number
  

Failure to meet rabies requirements can result in quarantine or denied entry.

✔ Import / Export Permits (International Travel)

If flying internationally, you may also need:

• Animal import permit from destination country
  
• Export clearance from origin country
  
• Government veterinary authority approval
  

Each country has different rules, so checking official regulations in advance is critical.

✔ Microchip Documentation

Many countries require pets to be microchipped.
Important details:

• ISO-compliant microchip (in most cases)
  
• Microchip number must match all documents
  
• Implantation date must be recorded
  

Some destinations require the microchip to be implanted before rabies vaccination.

Restricted Pets & Breeds on Volaris

For safety and animal welfare reasons, Volaris does not allow certain animals to travel. These restrictions help reduce health risks, prevent in-flight emergencies, and comply with international aviation regulations.

Animals NOT Allowed on Volaris

The airline does NOT permit:

✘ Birds
✘ Rabbits
✘ Rodents (hamsters, guinea pigs, etc.)
✘ Reptiles (snakes, turtles, lizards)
✘ Exotic or wild animals

Only domestic dogs and cats are accepted under the official pet travel policy.

How to Add a Pet to a Volaris Flight (Step-by-Step)

Traveling with your furry friend on Volaris is straightforward if you follow the rules carefully. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to make the process smooth and stress-free for both you and your pet:

Review Pet Policy Rules

Before booking, read the Volaris pet travel policy thoroughly:

• Check weight limits (usually 22 lbs for cabin pets).
  
• Verify carrier requirements (soft-sided for cabin, hard-sided for cargo).
  
• Confirm documents required for domestic or international flights.
  
• Review breed restrictions for brachycephalic pets.
  

Book Your Own Ticket

Reserve your seat first. Pets cannot be added without a confirmed passenger booking.

Add Your Pet to the Reservation

You can add your pet during booking or after booking through:

• Volaris website – “Add Pet” option in Manage Booking
  
• Mobile app – select “Traveling with a Pet”
  
• Customer support – phone or email assistance
  

Confirm Pet Space Availability

Each flight has a limited number of pets allowed, both in cabin and cargo.

• Ensure your pet’s spot is secured to avoid last-minute denial.
  

Gather Required Documents

Prepare all necessary paperwork:

• Updated vaccination records
  
• Health certificate from a licensed veterinarian
  
• Rabies certificate
  
• Import/export permits (for international travel)
  
• Microchip documentation (if required)
  

Incomplete documents can delay travel or result in denied boarding.

Prepare an Approved Carrier or Crate

• Cabin pets: soft-sided, ventilated, leak-proof, fits under seat
  
• Cargo pets: hard-sided, secure locking system, food/water bowls attached
  
• Make sure the carrier meets IATA standards and airline size requirements
  

Arrive Early at the Airport

Arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure to complete all pet check-in procedures.

Complete Pet Check-In

• Present your pet, carrier, and all documents at the check-in counter
  
• Pay applicable pet fees if not pre-paid
  
• Ensure staff confirms your pet’s reservation
  

Keep Pet Secured During Boarding

• Cabin pets must stay inside the carrier under the seat
  
• Cargo pets must remain in secure crates until arrival
  
• Follow all airline staff instructions during boarding and takeoff
  

Pick Up Cargo Pets at Arrival Area

• After landing, retrieve cargo pets from the designated pet area
  
• Check for any documentation or health inspection requirements at international destinations
  
• Inspect your pet to ensure they arrived safely
  

Volaris Service Animals Policy

Certified service animals assisting passengers with disabilities may travel under special guidelines.

Requirements may include:

• Official certification documents
  
• Behavior standards
  
• Advance notice
  

Emotional support animals may not receive the same privileges as trained service animals.

Requirements for Pets on Board

To fly in the cabin:

Maximum combined weight is around 22 lbs
Airline-approved carrier
Health certificate
Clean and calm behaviour
Advance booking
Fee payment at check-in

Pets must remain inside the carrier at all times.

Benefits of Flying With Pets on Volaris

Flying with pets can be stressful, but Volaris offers several advantages that make the journey safer, easier, and more comfortable for both you and your furry companion.

Cabin Travel Option

Small pets can travel with you in the cabin, allowing you to:

• Keep an eye on them throughout the flight
  
• Reduce stress and anxiety for the animal
  
• Avoid cargo handling and long waiting periods
  

Temperature-Controlled Environment

Whether in the cabin or cargo, Volaris ensures temperature-controlled travel, protecting pets from extreme heat or cold.

Clear & Structured Rules

• Detailed guidelines for carriers, weight limits, and allowed species
  
• Helps passengers plan ahead and avoid last-minute surprises
  
• Rules are designed to prioritize pet safety, comfort, and wellbeing
  

Online Booking Convenience

• Pets can be added during booking or after via website, app, or customer service
  
• Pre-booking ensures spot reservation in cabin or cargo
  
• Avoids the stress of waiting until airport check-in
  

Lower Stress Compared to Some Airlines

• Cabin travel reduces exposure to loud cargo areas
  
• Close proximity allows pets to feel secure
  
• Structured guidance reduces anxiety for both pet and owner
  

Domestic Travel Requires Fewer Documents

• Simpler documentation requirements for flights within Mexico
  
• Only vaccination and health certificate typically required
  
• Easier and faster check-in process for cabin pets
  

Safe Cargo Environment

• Medium and large pets can travel safely in hard-sided crates
  
• Adheres to IATA kennel standards
  
• Food, water, and ventilation are properly arranged for long journeys
  
• Ideal for international relocations or pets exceeding cabin limits
  

Pet Travel Checklist Before Departure

Traveling with pets requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Use this checklist before your flight to make sure your furry friend is ready for takeoff:

Book Pet Space Early

• Reserve your pet’s spot in cabin or cargo during booking or immediately after.
  
• Cabin spots are limited per flight, so early booking is essential.
  

Confirm Documentation

• Ensure health certificate, vaccination records, and any import/export documents are valid.
  
• Double-check requirements for international flights or specific countries.
  

Microchip Your Pet

• Helps identify your pet in case they get lost.
  
• Some destinations require microchipping for international travel.
  

Practice Crate Training Weeks Before Travel

• Get your pet accustomed to staying in the carrier for long periods.
  
• Helps reduce anxiety during the flight.
  

Trim Nails Before Flight

• Prevent scratches inside the carrier.
  
• Ensures pet comfort and safety for you and airline staff.
  

Avoid Heavy Feeding Before Departure

• Reduces the risk of nausea or accidents during travel.
  
• Offer a light meal a few hours before check-in.
  

Attach ID Tag with Contact Number

• Ensure current phone number is on the collar or harness.
  
• Critical for quick identification if your pet is lost during travel.
  

Carry Leash for Airport Security

• Required to walk your pet safely during security checks and boarding.
  
• Helps keep your pet calm while navigating crowded areas.
  

Bring Small Blanket with Familiar Scent

• Provides comfort and reassurance in the unfamiliar environment of a plane.
  
• Can reduce stress and anxiety during the journey.
  

How to Reduce Pet Travel Stress

Flying can be stressful for pets, but with preparation and care, you can make the journey smooth and comfortable. Here are practical ways to reduce stress for your furry companion:

Stay Calm Yourself

• Pets pick up on your emotions, so staying relaxed helps them remain calm.
  
• Speak softly and handle them gently during check-in and boarding.
  

Use Vet-Approved Calming Aids

• Consider calming sprays, pheromone diffusers, or anxiety wraps if your vet approves.
  
• Avoid sedatives unless specifically prescribed, as they can affect breathing during flight.
  

Walk Your Pet Before Departure

• Let your dog relieve itself and get exercise before the flight.
  
• Helps reduce anxiety and restlessness in the carrier.
  

Hydration & Feeding

• Offer water, but avoid overfeeding immediately before departure.
  
• Small meals earlier in the day help prevent nausea and accidents.
  

Arrive Early at the Airport

• Give yourself and your pet plenty of time to check in and pass security without rushing.
  
• Reduces stress for both you and your animal companion.
  

Comfort Items

• Bring a familiar blanket, favorite toy, or treat inside the carrier.
  
• Helps your pet feel safe and at ease during the journey.
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Booking pet at airport last minute
Using incorrect crate size
Forgetting import permits
Ignoring weight limits
Incomplete vaccination records

Planning ahead prevents most issues.

Conclusion

Flying with pets can seem challenging, but Volaris has a clear and structured pet policy to make the experience safe, comfortable, and stress-free for both you and your furry companion. By understanding the rules, preparing proper documentation, and following carrier requirements, you can avoid last-minute issues at the airport and ensure a smooth journey.

Key takeaways:

• Know Pet Limits: Only cats and dogs are allowed. Cabin pets must meet size and weight limits, while larger pets travel in approved cargo crates.
• Prepare Documentation: Health certificates, vaccination records, rabies proof, and import/export permits (for international flights) are essential.
• Book Early: Reserve your pet’s spot in advance to avoid denied boarding or limited availability.
• Use Proper Carriers: Soft-sided carriers for cabin pets, IATA-approved hard crates for cargo pets.
• Reduce Stress: Familiar blankets, leash, ID tags, and proper pre-flight preparation help pets stay calm.
• International Travel Requires Extra Care: Check destination-specific regulations, microchip rules, and quarantine requirements.

By planning ahead, following Volaris guidelines, and preparing your pet properly, you can enjoy a smooth, safe, and enjoyable flight together. Flying with your furry friend becomes less stressful, ensuring a happy travel experience for both you and your pet.

FAQs – Volaris Airlines Pet Policy

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