If you are looking at booking a trip with Mexico’s flagship carrier, understanding the Aeromexico Airlines Pet Policy is the first step toward a smooth journey. Whether you have a tiny chihuahua destined for the cabin or a larger companion headed for the cargo hold, there are specific rules, weight limits, and paperwork requirements that you need to have in order long before you head to the airport.

Aeromexico is generally known for being quite welcoming to pets, but they do maintain strict standards to ensure the safety of all passengers—including the furry ones. This guide breaks down every detail you need to know for  travel, from carrier dimensions to seasonal restrictions.

Choosing the Right Way to Fly: Cabin vs. Checked Baggage

The very first thing to determine is where your pet will be spending the flight. This isn't just a matter of preference; it's strictly dictated by the size and weight of your animal.

Pets in the Cabin (PETC)

For many, having their pet right at their feet provides a huge sense of relief. Aeromexico allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin on flights that are six hours or less. This is a critical detail—if you are flying a long-haul route to Europe or South America that exceeds six hours, your pet will likely need to travel in the hold, even if they are small enough for the cabin.

• Weight Limit: Your pet and their carrier combined must not exceed 20 lbs (9 kg).

• Species: Only dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin.

• Age: Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old.

Pets as Checked Baggage (AVIH)

If your dog or cat is a bit too heavy for the 20-pound limit, they can travel as "checked baggage" in a pressurized, temperature-controlled area of the aircraft's hold. This service is available for dogs, cats, and even household birds.

• Weight Limit: The combined weight of the pet and the crate can be up to 99 lbs (45 kg).

• Age: Same as the cabin, pets must be at least 8 weeks old.

• Availability: The number of pets allowed in the hold varies by aircraft type (like the Boeing 737 or 787 Dreamliner), so booking early is essential.

Approved Pet Carriers and Crates

Aeromexico is very specific about the "house" your pet travels in. If your carrier doesn't meet these specs, the ground crew has the right to deny boarding.

For Cabin Travel

The carrier must be able to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.

• Maximum Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm).

• Material: You can use a soft-sided or hard-sided carrier. Soft-sided is usually recommended because it gives a little more "squeeze" room under the seat.

• Ventilation: It must have mesh or air holes on at least three sides.

• Interior: The bottom must be waterproof and lined with absorbent material (like a puppy pad).

For Checked Baggage (Cargo Hold)

Since your pet won't be under your supervision, the crate needs to be a fortress of safety.

• Construction: Must be rigid plastic or metal. Foldable or "pop-up" crates are strictly prohibited in the hold.

• Space: Your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.

• Security: The door must have a secure locking mechanism. Many travelers use zip-ties as an extra precaution, though you should check with the agent at check-in first.

Necessary Documentation and Health Requirements

You cannot simply show up with a pet; you need a "paper trail" that proves they are healthy and vaccinated. Requirements can vary depending on whether you are flying domestically within Mexico or internationally.

For All Flights

• Rabies Vaccination: You must provide an original certificate showing your pet was vaccinated against rabies. For most international travel, this must be done at least 30 days before the flight.

• Health Certificate: A certificate of good health issued by a licensed veterinarian. Usually, this needs to be dated within 5 to 10 days of your departure.

International Specifics (USA and Canada)

While Mexico has simplified some rules for pets arriving from the US and Canada, the airline still requires documentation. If you are flying into the United States, be aware of the CDC’s rules regarding dog imports, which were updated recently. You may need to fill out a CDC Dog Import Form online before your flight.

The OISA Inspection

If you are arriving in Mexico from another country, your pet will undergo a brief inspection by the Sagarpa-Senasica officials at the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA). They will check for signs of infectious diseases and external parasites (like ticks or fleas). If they find any, you may have to pay for a private vet to treat the animal before they are cleared to leave the airport.

Costs and Fees for

Traveling with a pet is an added expense and is not included in your standard baggage allowance. Under the Aeromexico Airlines Pet Policy, fees are charged per segment.

Note: "High Season" typically includes summer months, Christmas, New Year, and Easter (Semana Santa).

Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals

Aeromexico recognizes the importance of service animals for passengers with disabilities. However, policies for Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) have become more restrictive across the industry.

Service Dogs (SVAN)

• Cost: Free of charge.

• Requirements: Only dogs are accepted as service animals. They must be trained to perform a specific task.

• Documentation: You will need to provide the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form for flights to/from the USA.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAN)

Unlike many US-based carriers that no longer recognize ESAs, Aeromexico still permits them under specific conditions:

• Weight Limit: Maximum 26 lbs (12 kg).

• Documentation: A formal letter from a licensed mental health professional (on their letterhead) is required, stating that the animal is necessary for your health.

• Dimensions: They must not exceed 22 inches in length or 12 inches in height.

Restricted Breeds: What You Need to Know

Safety is a priority, and unfortunately, certain breeds are at a higher risk of respiratory distress during flight. Aeromexico has a strict policy regarding Brachycephalic (short-nosed) animals.

• Prohibited in the Hold: Breeds like Bulldogs (English and French), Pugs, Boxers, Pit Bulls, and Persian cats are not allowed to travel as checked baggage. The high temperatures and stress of the hold can be fatal for these breeds.

• Allowed in Cabin: Many of these breeds can still fly in the cabin, provided they meet the weight and size requirements, as the cabin is better regulated for temperature and airflow.

• Dangerous Breeds: Some breeds known for aggression, such as the Doberman or Rottweiler, may have additional restrictions or require reinforced crates.

Pro Tips for a Stress-Free Flight

Even with all the paperwork done, the day of travel can be hectic. Here are a few tips to make it easier for both you and your pet:

1. Book via Call Center: You cannot usually add a pet to your reservation through the website or app. You need to call Aeromexico directly. Since there are limits on how many pets can be on a single flight (often only 4 to 6), do this as soon as you buy your ticket.

2. Arrive Early: The check-in process for pets takes time. Plan to be at the airport at least 3 hours before an international flight.

3. The "No Food" Rule: Aeromexico technically prohibits feeding your pet during the flight to avoid motion sickness or choking. Give them a light meal a few hours before heading to the airport.

4. Scent of Home: Put a t-shirt you’ve worn inside the carrier. Your scent can be incredibly calming for a nervous dog or cat.

5. Window Seats: When flying with a pet in the cabin, you will typically be assigned a window seat. This keeps the carrier out of the way of the beverage cart and other passengers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy an extra seat for my dog?

No, under the current Aeromexico Airlines Pet Policy, pets are not allowed to occupy a passenger seat. They must remain in their carrier on the floor.

What happens if I have a layover in Mexico City?

If you have a connection, you are responsible for your pet during the layover. If the pet is in the hold, you may need to "claim" them and re-check them, depending on the length of the layover and the specific route. Always confirm this with the agent at your starting point.

Can my pet fly in Premier Class?

Yes, but with caveats. On the Embraer 190 aircraft, Premier Class only allows one pet per flight. On larger planes like the 787, there is more flexibility, but the carrier still must fit under the footrest area, which can sometimes be narrower in business class than in economy.

The Aeromexico Airlines Pet Policy is designed to be fair but firm. As long as you treat the "pet reservation" with the same level of detail as your own passport and visa, you shouldn't run into any major hurdles. Remember that at the end of the day, the airline crew wants your pet to arrive safely just as much as you do.