Traveling with a furry companion can feel exciting and stressful at the same time. Knowing what to expect before reaching the airport makes a huge difference. The Volaris Airlines Pet Policy lays out clear rules for flying with pets, whether the plan is to bring a small dog or cat in the cabin or arrange cargo travel for a larger animal. From carrier sizes to fees and health paperwork, every detail matters.

This guide breaks everything down in a simple, practical way. No confusing airline jargon, just the essentials to help pet parents plan a smoother journey with Volaris.

Overview of the Volaris Airlines Pet Policy

Volaris allows certain pets to travel on its flights, mainly dogs and cats. The airline focuses on in-cabin pet travel for small animals that can fit comfortably in an approved carrier. Larger pets usually need to travel through cargo services arranged separately.

Key highlights of the Volaris Airlines Pet Policy include:

• Pets must be dogs or cats

• Only small pets are allowed in the cabin

• Advance reservation is required

• Fees apply per flight segment

• Health and vaccination documents are mandatory

Each route and destination can have slightly different rules, especially for international travel, so checking the most current requirements before booking is always wise.

Types of Pets Allowed on Volaris

Volaris keeps its pet program fairly simple. The airline accepts:

• Dogs

• Cats

Other animals, including birds, reptiles, rodents, and exotic pets, are not permitted on passenger flights. Service animals are handled under a different policy and follow separate rules.

Breed restrictions may apply, particularly for short-nosed (brachycephalic) dog and cat breeds. These breeds are more sensitive to temperature and pressure changes, so Volaris may limit or refuse transport for their safety.

In-Cabin Pet Travel Rules

Most travelers prefer to keep their pets close during the flight. Volaris allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin as long as they meet specific requirements.

Pet Size and Weight Limits

For in-cabin travel under the Volaris Airlines Pet Policy:

• The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs)

• The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier

If the pet is too large to meet these limits, cabin travel will not be approved.

Carrier Dimensions and Requirements

Carriers must fit under the seat in front of the traveler. Typical size guidelines include:

• Maximum length: around 44 cm (17 in)

• Maximum width: around 30 cm (12 in)

• Maximum height: around 19 cm (7.5 in)

Soft-sided carriers are strongly recommended since they are more flexible and easier to fit under seats. Hard-sided carriers are often not accepted for in-cabin travel.

Additional carrier rules:

• Proper ventilation on at least two sides

• Leak-proof bottom

• Secure zippers or fasteners

• Clean and odor-free condition

The pet must remain inside the carrier for the entire flight, including boarding and deplaning.

Cargo Travel for Larger Pets

Volaris does not operate a traditional live animal cargo service on all routes. Larger pets may need to travel through approved third-party cargo providers or specialized pet transport services.

Important points about cargo travel:

• Availability varies by destination

• Temperature restrictions may apply

• Breed limitations are more strict

• Additional paperwork is often required

Because cargo rules change frequently and depend heavily on local regulations, contacting Volaris directly or working with a professional pet relocation service is the safest option.

Fees for Traveling With Pets on Volaris

Fees are a major part of planning under the Volaris Airlines Pet Policy. Charges apply per flight segment, meaning each leg of a journey is billed separately.

Typical in-cabin pet fees:

• Domestic flights (Mexico): around USD 60–80 per segment

• International flights: around USD 100–120 per segment

Prices can change based on route, season, and booking method. Fees are usually paid at the airport or during booking, depending on availability.

These fees are non-refundable in most cases, even if travel plans change later.

How to Add a Pet to a Volaris Booking

Adding a pet to a reservation is not automatic. Space for in-cabin pets is limited, so early planning matters.

Steps to follow:

1. Book the passenger ticket first

2. Contact Volaris customer service or visit the official website

3. Request pet travel availability on the chosen flight

4. Pay the applicable pet fee

5. Receive confirmation for the pet reservation

Only a certain number of pets are allowed per flight, usually between 3 and 5 depending on aircraft type.

Required Documents for Pet Travel

Documentation is not optional when flying with pets. The Volaris Airlines Pet Policy requires travelers to present proper paperwork at check-in.

Health Certificate

A veterinary health certificate is required for most routes. It should:

• Be issued within 5 to 10 days of travel

• Confirm the pet is healthy and fit to fly

• Include vaccination details

Vaccination Records

Rabies vaccination is mandatory for dogs and cats. The record must show:

• Date of vaccination

• Expiration date

• Microchip number (if applicable)

Import and Export Permits

For international flights, additional permits may be required depending on the destination country. Some locations require:

• Microchipping

• Blood tests

• Quarantine documentation

• Government import approvals

Checking destination-specific rules well in advance avoids last-minute issues.

Check-In Process for Pets

Pet travelers cannot check in online. In-person check-in at the airport is required.

Recommended arrival time:

• At least 3 hours before domestic flights

• At least 4 hours before international flights

During check-in:

• Documents are reviewed

• Carrier dimensions are verified

• Pet weight is confirmed

• Fees are collected if not prepaid

If any requirement is not met, boarding may be denied.

Onboard Experience With a Pet

Once onboard, a few simple rules apply under the Volaris Airlines Pet Policy:

• The pet carrier must stay under the seat at all times

• Pets cannot be removed from carriers during the flight

• Feeding is not allowed onboard

• Water may be offered discreetly using a spill-proof container

Cabin crew may check the carrier placement for safety reasons.

Destination-Specific Pet Travel Rules

Every country has its own pet import rules. Even if Volaris allows the pet onboard, entry may be denied by border authorities if documents are incomplete.

Common destination requirements:

• Rabies titers for certain countries

• Parasite treatments

• Health inspections on arrival

• Mandatory waiting periods

Travelers should contact the destination country’s embassy or agriculture department for up-to-date regulations.

Breed Restrictions and Safety Rules

Volaris prioritizes animal safety, especially for breeds with breathing difficulties.

Commonly restricted breeds include:

• Bulldogs

• Pugs

• Persian cats

• Shih Tzus

• Boxers

These breeds may be refused travel during hot or cold seasons. Even when allowed, additional waivers or vet clearance may be required.

Traveling With Emotional Support and Service Animals

Service animals follow a separate policy and are not counted as regular pets. Emotional support animals may no longer receive special cabin privileges and may be treated as standard pets.

Service animal rules typically include:

• Advance notice

• Disability-related documentation

• Behavioral standards

• Harness or leash requirements

Policies for these animals can change due to regulations, so direct confirmation with Volaris is recommended.

Tips for a Smooth Pet Travel Experience

Flying with a pet does not have to feel overwhelming. A little preparation goes a long way.

Helpful tips:

• Book early to secure limited pet slots

• Choose flights with fewer connections

• Use a soft-sided, airline-approved carrier

• Label the carrier with contact information

• Avoid feeding pets right before departure

• Exercise pets before heading to the airport

Keeping pets calm and comfortable reduces stress for everyone involved.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many travelers run into trouble simply because of small oversights.

Common issues include:

• Bringing the wrong carrier size

• Forgetting health certificates

• Booking pet travel too late

• Underestimating check-in time

• Ignoring destination entry rules

Double-checking everything a day or two before departure can prevent major disruptions.

Volaris Airlines Pet Policy for Puppies and Kittens

Young pets have extra rules under the Volaris Airlines Pet Policy.

General age requirements:

• Pets must be at least 8 weeks old

• Some routes require pets to be 12 weeks or older

Vaccination schedules must be complete, and very young pets may face additional restrictions depending on destination laws.

Seasonal Restrictions and Weather Rules

Temperature plays a big role in pet safety. Volaris may impose seasonal restrictions during extreme heat or cold.

Key points:

• Certain routes may block pet travel during summer months

• Cargo transport is often limited during heat waves

• Early morning or late evening flights are safer for pets

Always check seasonal rules before confirming travel dates.

Connecting Flights and Layovers With Pets

Connecting flights add complexity. Each segment follows the same Volaris Airlines Pet Policy rules and fees.

Things to consider:

• Longer layovers increase stress for pets

• Document checks may be repeated

• Pet fees apply per segment

• Some airports have pet relief areas

Direct flights are always the easiest option when traveling with animals.

Refunds and Changes for Pet Reservations

Pet fees are usually non-refundable. If a flight changes or is canceled:

• Pet reservations may not automatically transfer

• New fees may apply

• Availability must be rechecked

Travel insurance that covers pet-related disruptions can be a smart investment.

Final Thoughts on the Volaris Airlines Pet Policy

The Volaris Airlines Pet Policy is designed to balance convenience with safety. Small dogs and cats can travel comfortably in the cabin when proper planning is done. From carrier size rules to documentation and fees, every detail plays a role in a successful trip.

Preparation makes all the difference. Booking early, gathering the right paperwork, and understanding route-specific rules help avoid surprises at the airport. With the right approach, flying with a pet on Volaris can feel manageable and even enjoyable.

Quick Summary: Volaris Airlines Pet Policy

• Pets allowed: Dogs and cats

• Cabin weight limit: 10 kg (pet + carrier)

• Carrier type: Soft-sided recommended

• Fees: USD 60–120 per segment

• Documents: Health certificate, vaccination records

• Booking: Advance reservation required

• Age limit: Minimum 8 weeks

• Seasonal rules: Heat and cold restrictions apply

Staying informed keeps both pets and travelers happier in the air.