Pet Policies at Airports and Lounges in India: What You Need to Know
In India, airport and lounge policies regarding pets are generally focused on ensuring safety and comfort for both the animals and passengers. These policies can vary from airport to airport and lounge to lounge, but here is an overview of the general guidelines:
1. Pets at Indian Airports
Pets are allowed at most major Indian airports, but there are specific rules for their entry, especially inside the terminal or lounges.
Entry to Airports:
- Airlines’ Policies: Airlines typically have specific rules for transporting pets. For domestic flights, pets are generally allowed in the cabin (under specific weight limits) or as cargo in the hold, depending on the airline’s policy.
- Carrier Requirement: Pets must be kept in an airline-approved carrier or crate while inside the airport terminal. The carrier must meet certain dimensions and ventilation standards, and the pet must remain inside it at all times.
- Health Documentation: Passengers traveling with pets need to ensure they have the necessary health certificates, including vaccination records. These are generally required for the pet to be allowed entry into the airport terminal or onto the flight.
- Security Checks: Pets are usually subjected to security screening, which may involve carrying the pet in its carrier through a security scanner or undergoing a manual inspection by security personnel.
Pet Relief Areas:
- Designated Pet Areas: Some airports in India have designated pet relief areas outside the terminal for pets to relieve themselves before boarding. However, such areas may not be available at every airport.
2. Airport Lounge Policies for Pets in India
Most airport lounges in India do not allow pets inside the lounge area due to health and safety regulations, but there are exceptions or guidelines that may allow pets to be accommodated in certain situations:
General Lounge Rules:
- Pets Not Allowed Inside Lounges: Typically, airport lounges in India, such as those operated by Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or specific airline lounges, do not permit pets inside the lounge, including service animals. Passengers with pets will need to find an alternative waiting area in the terminal.
- Service Animals: Some lounges do allow service animals, such as guide dogs for visually impaired passengers, to accompany them inside the lounge. This is typically allowed based on international regulations.
- Pet Travel Lounge: Some airports (like Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi) may have a Pet Travel Lounge or a designated area for pet handling and comfort. These lounges are not the same as traditional passenger lounges, but they offer space where pets can rest before their flight.
Exceptions:
- Certain luxury or specialized lounges at select airports may make exceptions or offer special arrangements for pets, especially if the passenger is traveling in a premium class with special requirements.
3. Guidelines for Traveling with Pets in Indian Airports and Lounges
If you’re traveling with a pet, here are a few general tips and guidelines to make the journey smoother:
- Check Airline Pet Policies: Before traveling, ensure that your airline allows pets on board and confirm their specific guidelines regarding pet carriers, booking, and any additional fees.
- Book Pet-Friendly Lounges in Advance: If your pet is a service animal, ensure the lounge you’re visiting has provisions to accommodate them.
- Ensure Proper Documentation: Have all the required health and vaccination certificates ready. This is important when traveling by air and for entry into terminals or other areas of the airport.
- Prepare the Pet for Travel: Keep your pet comfortable during the journey by ensuring that their carrier has proper ventilation and is large enough for them to move around. Also, pack some familiar items (like a blanket) for comfort.
4. Pet-Friendly Airports in India
Some of the airports in India have pet-friendly facilities, such as pet relief areas or dedicated pet lounges. Notable ones include:
- Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi): Known for offering a Pet Travel Lounge where pets can relax before boarding.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai): Offers a designated pet check-in area and provisions for pet transport.
Final Thoughts
- Pets in Terminals: Most airports allow pets to enter but only in carriers. However, pets are generally not allowed inside lounges unless they are service animals.
- Service Animals: Passengers traveling with service animals (such as guide dogs) will generally be allowed to bring them into lounges and other facilities.
- Dedicated Pet Facilities: Some major airports offer specific facilities, such as pet relief areas or lounges, especially for passengers traveling with animals.
It is always recommended to check with the specific airport or lounge ahead of your travel to confirm their pet policies and any necessary arrangements.
Information by © The Fin Cafe
