There are many different reasons for chartering a private aircraft to transport your pet instead of traveling by commercial airline.
SIZE LIMITATIONS - In today's world of shrinking airline seats, it is getting more and more difficult to take your pet in the cabin of the aircraft. If your best friend is over a certain weight 15-22 pounds more than 10 to 12 inches tall depending on the airline then it will probably have to fly in the cargo hold. This section of cargo is pressurized and temperature controlled to be nearly the same as in the cabin. You my be concerned about putting your precious pet in the cargo hold of a commercial airline.
SUMMER HEAT EMBARGO - during the summer when temperature exceeds 84 degrees on the runway most airlines will not accept a pet as checked baggage or air cargo. During the cold weather months many airlines require an Acclimation Certificate signed by your veterinarian certifying that your pet can adjust to the colder temperatures.
NUMBER OF PETS TRAVELING WITH YOU - all airlines have limits as to the number of pets in the cabin of the aircraft. Most airlines limit you to "one pet per passenger". If you have multiple pets or the pets are traveling unaccompanied then will need to travel as checked baggage or air cargo.
BREED - many airlines will not accept snub nose breeds such as bulldogs, pugs, and Shih-Tzu's in the cargo hold as they may develop breathing problems at high altitudes.
SPECIAL NEEDS - If your pet has special medical or psychological needs that require your attention during the duration of your trip then travel in the cargo hold may be stressful for them. Separation anxiety is a perfect example of this.
LENGTH OF FLIGHT - During long flights, owners may want to ensure that their pet is hydrated and comfortable. Flying on a private charter will allow the owner to give them that extra attention.
So what is a traveling pet owner supposed to do?
You might consider chartering your own aircraft, either alone or with a group that you assemble. Expensive? Yes, but your pet will travel in the seat right next to you, and you know that it will arrive safely and at the same time that you do.
Private charters can cost from few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars if you want to fly overseas. However, there are ways to cut the costs.
Charter companies often have to fly empty to pick up their passengers or perhaps they only have one or two people on a flight that would be willing to fly with you and your pet so that you can share in the cost. It's simply a matter of scheduling. Unlike an airline you cannot choose to fly on Tuesday morning at 8 AM; you will have to be flexible.
Consider a prop aircraft instead of a jet. It takes a little longer and maybe is not quite as grand, but it costs a lot less. A traveling pet owner recently told us about their charter from Florida to Costa Rica that they were able to negotiate for 00.00. Since there were two adults and two pets, they did not pay that much more than a commercial flight.
Consider traveling in a group. A pet friendly vacation with your friends who have pets and want to bring them along can lower the price for everyone.
It is very important to be very specific with the policies of the charter service when transporting your pet. Last minute surprises are not what you need when traveling with a pet.
Review the charter company's operating certificate, safety record, and insurance policies. Be sure to ask for references. When you get them, be sure and call to ask about the experience the traveler had with the company. Was their adequate space for their pet? Was the flight on time? Was the crew helpful and friendly? What are your responsibilities to safeguard your pet?
NOTE: Some rabies free countries do not allow pets to arrive in that country on a chartered aircraft unless the charter company has been pre-approved.
A bit of extra effort on your part can pay off in a big way when it comes to the safety and comfort of you and your pet. Consider private jet charter for less-stressful pet travel.
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