Italy has introduced one of the most pet-friendly aviation changes in Europe. Under updated guidelines issued by the country’s civil aviation authority, ENAC, dogs that were previously forced to travel in aircraft cargo holds may now be allowed to fly in the passenger cabin. The change applies not only to small pets, but also to many medium and large dogs, marking a significant departure from long-standing airline practices.
Until now, in-cabin travel across most European airlines was limited to pets weighing around ten kilograms, including the carrier. Larger dogs were required to travel in pressurized cargo compartments, a practice that many owners and animal welfare groups have criticized for years.
What Exactly Has Changed
Under the new Italian guidelines, airlines are permitted to allow dogs of larger sizes to travel in the cabin, provided they are placed in special carriers that can be safely secured to a passenger seat. These carriers must meet safety requirements and ensure that the animal does not interfere with cabin operations or passenger comfort.
The key change is that weight alone is no longer the determining factor. Instead, the focus shifts to whether the dog can be transported securely, safely, and without risk. This effectively removes the rigid threshold that previously excluded most medium and large breeds from in-cabin travel.
The decision does not automatically force airlines to change their policies. Rather, it gives them regulatory permission to do so. Each airline operating in Italy may now update its own rules within the framework set by ENAC.
Why Italy Made the Change
The move reflects growing awareness of animal welfare concerns in air travel. Cargo hold transport, while regulated, can be stressful for animals due to noise, separation from owners, and temperature variations. For some breeds, especially older dogs or those with respiratory issues, cargo travel carries higher health risks.
Italian authorities also point to changing social attitudes. Pets are increasingly treated as family members rather than property, and travel rules are beginning to reflect that shift. Allowing dogs to remain with their owners during flights is seen as reducing stress for both animals and passengers.
What This Means for Airlines and Passengers
For airlines, the new rule opens the door to more flexible and potentially attractive services. Pet-friendly travel has become a competitive factor, especially for short- and medium-haul flights within Europe. Airlines that adopt the new option may appeal to a growing segment of travelers who previously avoided flying with their dogs altogether.
For passengers, the change offers new possibilities but also new responsibilities. Dogs must be well-behaved, accustomed to confined spaces, and able to remain calm during the flight. Special carriers will likely be required, and additional fees may apply. Airlines may also limit the number of animals allowed in the cabin per flight.
Not Free for All
It is important to note that this is not an unrestricted policy. Safety remains the priority. Airlines can still deny cabin access based on size, behavior, or operational constraints. Crew members retain authority to assess whether an animal can be accommodated safely.
The rule also does not override international aviation regulations or the policies of foreign carriers. Flights departing from or arriving in Italy may still be subject to different rules depending on the airline and destination country.
A New Era for Traveling with Dogs
For dog owners, the change represents more than a technical adjustment. It signals recognition that animals deserve safer and less stressful travel conditions. For the aviation industry, it highlights how customer expectations are shifting beyond speed and price toward comfort, ethics, and emotional considerations.
Whether other countries follow Italy’s example remains to be seen. But for now, Italy has taken a clear step toward making the skies more accessible for.