Moving a pet from one place to another is often more stressful for the human than the animal. Whether you are moving to a new home in the Caribbean or sending a specialized shipment through Jungle Jet services, you want to know the rules. IBC Airways has built a reputation for handling cargo that other airlines won't touch, and that includes our four-legged friends. This guide breaks down how the process works without the confusing jargon. IBC Airways Pet Policy

The Basics of IBC Pets and Jungle Jet Services

IBC Airways doesn't operate like your standard commercial airline, where you hop on with a carry-on bag. They are a cargo-first carrier. This means your pet isn't sitting under a seat in a cramped cabin. Instead, they are handled as specialized cargo. The "Jungle Jet" service is a nickname often associated with their nimble fleet that reaches spots in the Bahamas, flying into smaller strips where big planes can't land.

Because these are cargo flights, the focus is on safety and timing. The planes are climate-controlled, which is the most important factor for any animal traveling in the hold. You aren't just putting a crate on a plane; you are booking a spot in a system designed for logistics and care.

Required Paperwork and Health Certificates

You cannot just show up at the hangar with a dog and hope for the best. Every country has its own set of "entry requirements." If you are flying between the US and the Bahamas or other Caribbean islands, the paperwork is the biggest hurdle. Most islands require a health certificate signed by a licensed vet within 10 days of the flight.

Some places also require an import permit. This is a piece of paper from the destination country’s government saying they expect your pet. Without this, the animal might be stuck in quarantine or even sent back on the next flight. Always check the specific rules for your destination at least a month before you plan to fly. Rabies vaccinations must be up to date, and you’ll need the records to prove it.

Choosing the Right Travel Crate

The crate is your pet’s "home" for the duration of the flight. IBC Airways follows IATA standards. This means the crate must be sturdy, well-ventilated, and large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally. If the ears of your dog touch the top of the crate while standing, the crate is too small. Cargo loaders will likely refuse to fly the animal for safety reasons if the fit is too tight.

• Material: Hard plastic or wood. Collapsible wire crates are not allowed.
• Fasteners: Metal bolts are preferred over plastic "snap" clips.
• Bedding: Use absorbent material like shredded paper or a thin blanket. Avoid bulky beds that could get caught in the door.
• Water: A clip-on water bowl is required. Pro tip: freeze the water in the bowl the night before so it doesn't spill during loading and melts slowly for the pet to drink.

Weather Restrictions and Safety

Airlines have to be careful about the heat. In the Caribbean and South Florida, temperatures can skyrocket on the tarmac. If the ground temperature is over 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29°C), many cargo carriers will stop animal shipments for the day. This is for the pet's protection. Brachycephalic breeds—the ones with "smushed" faces like Bulldogs or Pugs—have a harder time breathing in heat and might face stricter rules or total bans during summer months.

Checking the forecast is part of the job. If a flight is delayed because of heat, it's because the crew wants to make sure your pet doesn't overheat while the plane is waiting to take off. Safety always comes before the schedule.

The Booking Process for Jungle Jet

Since IBC is a cargo airline, you don't book through a travel site like Expedia. You need to contact their cargo office directly. They will ask for the weight of the pet plus the weight of the crate, along with the dimensions. The price is usually calculated based on the "volumetric weight"—basically how much space the crate takes up on the plane.

It is smart to book at least two weeks in advance. Space for live animals is limited because they can't be stacked like regular boxes. They need specific spots in the hold where air circulation is best. Once the booking is confirmed, you’ll get a waybill number. This is your tracking code.

Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures

When the day arrives, you’ll head to the cargo terminal, not the passenger terminal. Usually, you need to be there about 3 to 4 hours before the flight. This gives the staff time to check the paperwork, inspect the crate, and secure the animal. Don't feed your pet a huge meal right before the flight to avoid an upset stomach, but a little water is fine.

On the other end, pick-up happens at the cargo warehouse of the destination airport. You will have to clear customs. This might involve a small fee paid to the local agriculture department for the inspection of the animal. Have some cash on hand, as some island offices don't always take credit cards for these small fees.

Common Questions About IBC Pets

People often ask if they can put toys in the crate. It's better to keep it simple. A small familiar item is okay, but large toys can be a choking hazard or get messy. Another big question is about sedation. Most vets and airlines recommend against sedating pets. At high altitudes, sedatives can affect a pet's heart rate and breathing in unpredictable ways. It is much safer for them to be alert, even if they are a bit nervous.

If you are shipping a more exotic animal—like a bird or a lizard—through Jungle Jet services, the rules are even tighter. You’ll need CITES permits to prove the animal isn't part of an endangered species trade. For regular cats and dogs, it’s mostly about health and crates.

Final Tips for a Smooth Trip

Preparation makes the difference. Spend a few weeks getting your pet used to the crate at home. Put treats inside and let them sleep there. If they see the crate as a safe spot, they won't panic when the plane engines start. IBC Airways handles these logistics every day, but you are the expert on your own pet. Keep your phone handy on flight day in case the cargo team needs to reach you regarding weather changes or timing updates.

Shipping a pet via cargo sounds intimidating, but it is a standard part of island life. With the right crate, the right papers, and a bit of patience, your pet will be waiting for you at the destination, ready for their next adventure.