Many pet lovers know very well that flying with pets can be a great challenge in today’s world of commercial aviation. In fact, the Humane Society of the United States recommends that you DO NOT transport your pet by commercial aircraft unless absolutely necessary. Why? There are a myriad of reasons, including the sad fact that there are countless documented incidents of beloved pets suffering through commercial air flights, getting sick, dehydrated, accidentally injured, even some otherwise healthy animals don’t even survive. on the fly.
However, so that travelers know that it is an alternative to flying commercial with their beloved pets. Plane rental is smarter when it comes to air travel with our four-legged friends! Here are some reasons why the small monetary investment in charter flights pays a big dividend in the health, happiness and safety of your pet and in your peace of mind.
Often when you fly a charter plane, you can travel with your pet in your arms or at your side on the plane. There are pet-friendly jet and charter companies all over the world, and you can find an aircraft that meets your travel needs easily and conveniently. You don’t need to be separated from your pet for a single moment, and you never have to worry about your pet getting on board, loading it into the cargo hold, getting lost or delayed if you have connecting flights or if your flight is canceled.
You may need to worry about pet carriers, if they are comfortable for your pet and approved by the airlines. If you are flying commercial and your pet is small enough, you may be allowed to bring it on board for an additional fee, depending on the rules of commercial airlines. However, they are not allowed to leave the airline, and there are anecdotal cases of travelers arriving with small pets to continue and being denied, as commercial airlines have limitations on the number of carry-on pets they allow per flight. If you are allowed to bring your pet, pets can get quite agitated in such a confined environment, and without being able to comfort them, it can be stressful for you!
Additionally, larger pets of a certain size may need to be checked into the cargo hold, which may or may not be climate controlled. With cold weather upon us, this could be dangerous, if not life threatening, for a pet confined to a carrier in an icy cargo hold. Even if you are traveling to a hot weather destination, the same caution is issued: the cargo hold can easily become excessively and dangerously hot. Your pet is trapped without food, water or any “comforts” while you have to worry about flight delays due to harsh winter weather conditions. The bottom line: commercial airlines technically consider your pet to be checked baggage. An aircraft rental company considers your pet to be a customer.
You can ensure that your pet stays comfortable, content, fed, and hydrated. Some aircraft rental companies offer their customers who travel with pets special treats, toys, and other small travel luxuries. Some FBOs even have pet-friendly accommodations for your waiting period before or after your flight. Give yourself the special Christmas gift of knowing your furry friend is safely traveling in your arms or by your side AND being pampered the way he deserves!
It really is smarter to fly Charter with your pets this Christmas season or at any time of the year. Join the Pet Jet Set and keep your pet safe and sound to enjoy the holidays with you and your family.
