SWISS Air Pet Policy - Flights Counsel

Traveling with pets requires careful planning, especially when flying internationally. The SWISS Air Pet Policy allows passengers to travel with cats and dogs on most routes, provided all safety, size, and documentation requirements are met. Pets may travel either in the cabin or in the aircraft hold depending on their size, weight, and breed.

This page explains SWISS International Air Lines’ pet travel rules, fees, carrier requirements, and important restrictions to help ensure a smooth journey.

Does SWISS Air Allow Pets on Flights?

Yes, SWISS International Air Lines permits cats and dogs only on its flights. Other animals are not accepted. Emotional support animals are treated as pets and must follow standard pet travel rules.

Pets can travel:

In the aircraft cabin (small pets only)
In the aircraft hold (medium and large pets)

Acceptance depends on aircraft type, route, weather conditions, and availability.

SWISS Air Pet Policy for In-Cabin Travel

Small cats and dogs may travel in the cabin when all requirements are met.

In-Cabin Weight Limit

Maximum combined weight of pet and carrier: 8 kg (17.6 lbs)

Approved Carrier Size

Maximum dimensions: 43 x 31 x 23 cm (17 x 12 x 9 inches)
Soft-sided carriers are recommended
Carrier must fit fully under the seat in front of the passenger
The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably

Cabin Travel Rules

One pet per passenger
Pets must remain inside the carrier for the entire flight
Pets are not allowed on seats or laps
Exit-row seating is not permitted

The pet carrier counts as carry-on baggage.

SWISS Air Pet Policy for Pets Traveling in the Aircraft Hold

Pets that exceed the in-cabin weight limit must travel in the aircraft hold, which is pressurized and temperature-controlled.

Weight Limits

Maximum combined weight (pet and crate): up to 75 kg (165 lbs) on most routes
Heavier animals may require special cargo arrangements

Crate Requirements

All crates must comply with IATA Live Animal Regulations:

Hard-shell construction
Ventilation on at least three sides
Secure locking mechanism
Leak-proof base
Sufficient space for the pet to stand upright and turn around

Soft or collapsible crates are not accepted in the hold.

Breed Restrictions Under the SWISS Air Pet Policy

SWISS places restrictions on certain brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds due to health risks, particularly for hold transport.

Affected breeds may include:

French Bulldogs
English Bulldogs
Pugs
Boston Terriers
Persian cats
Exotic Shorthair cats

Some short-nosed breeds may be accepted in the cabin if they meet size and weight requirements. Acceptance depends on route, season, and temperature conditions.

Seasonal and Weather-Related Restrictions

Pet transport may be temporarily restricted during periods of extreme heat or cold. These restrictions:

Vary by route and aircraft type
Are based on weather conditions, not fixed dates
Most commonly affect short-nosed breeds

Passengers should reconfirm pet acceptance close to departure.

SWISS Air Pet Travel Fees

Pet travel fees are charged separately and vary by route.

In-Cabin Pet Fees

Short-haul and European routes: CHF 60–100
Long-haul and intercontinental routes: CHF 100–150

Pets Traveling in the Aircraft Hold

Typically CHF 150–300 or more, depending on weight and destination

Fees are charged per flight segment.

How to Book a Flight With a Pet on SWISS

Pets cannot be added through online booking.

Booking Steps

Book the passenger ticket first
Contact SWISS customer service or an authorized travel agent
Provide pet details:
- Species and breed
- Weight (including carrier)
- Carrier or crate dimensions

Cabin space for pets is limited and subject to availability.

Required Documents for Pet Travel

Documentation requirements depend on the destination country and may include:

Pet passport (for EU travel)
Rabies vaccination certificate
Microchip documentation
Veterinary health certificate
Import permits where required

All documents must be valid at the time of travel.

Connecting Flights and Partner Airlines

SWISS is part of the Lufthansa Group. When traveling on itineraries that include partner airlines:

The most restrictive pet policy applies
Some mixed-carrier itineraries may not allow pets

Each flight segment must be checked individually.

Airport Check-In and Security Procedures

Passengers traveling with pets must check in at the airport counter.

At the airport:

Carriers and crates are inspected
Documents are verified
Pets are removed from carriers during security screening

Passengers should arrive early to allow sufficient time for inspections.

During the Flight

In-cabin pets must remain under the seat in their carriers
Pets traveling in the hold are placed in climate-controlled compartments
Sedation is not recommended unless approved by a veterinarian

Is SWISS Air a Good Airline for Flying With Pets?

The SWISS Air Pet Policy emphasizes safety, structure, and compliance with international standards. While flexibility is limited, SWISS is considered a reliable option for pet travel when all requirements are met.