How to Book a Flight on Pet Airways

If you have a pet that isn't small enough to fit in a carryon bag--you've probably never been thrilled with the idea of air travel--since the only other option is cargo. And of course, your beloved family member shouldn't be treated like a piece of luggage. Well, now there's an affordable solution so that your pets can fly on an airplane and not have to go second class: Pet Airways, the airline that allows all pets in the cabin (in a carrier, of course)--the only thing is--they don't allow you.

Here is how to book a flight on Pet Airways.

Instructions

    • 1

      Go to the Pet Airways website (see Resources below). If your pet needs to travel to or from New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, Denver or Los Angeles, you're in luck. They are planning to expand their itinerary, but those are the only destinations they fly to as of this writing.

    • 2

      Key in your pet's departure and arrival locations and check off round-trip or one-way. Then fill in the number of pets, the departure and return dates and your pet's name and breed. Then you will select the animal type (as of this writing they only fly dogs and cats, but will allow more types of pets including birds, reptiles and pigs at a later date). Lastly, you will need to fill in your pet's height and weight (they give you a choice of height and weight ranges). The fare is calculated based on the size of the carrier.

    • 3

      Hit search and see what is available. Just like with people airlines there are discount specials between particular cities, which are listed daily.

    • 4

      Your flight will come up. For an additional fee you'll have the chance to upgrade the size of your pet's carrier if you like. If the minimum size recommended for your pet is Large, for example, you can upgrade to Extra Large or Giant. Then decide if you want to upgrade the insurance coverage ($500 is automatically included in the fare).

    • 5

      Fill in any special handling instructions for your pet and click Check Out. Then you can click Log In if you are a MyPaws member (Pet Airways Discount Club) or just click Continue if not.

    • 6

      Your pet's itinerary and total price will come up. Fill in your credit card and personal information, then click Purchase and you're "pet-setter" will be on his or her way!