Can my dog move around during the flight?

Question

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes, but only at appropriate times and always with safety first. ## The simple rule Your dog can usually stand up, stretch, and reposition once the aircraft is at cruising altitude and the cabin conditions are stable. During taxi, take-off, landing, turbulence, and any time the seatbelt sign is on, your dog must remain secure next to their human in their assigned cabin set-up. ## When movement is usually allowed Movement is typically fine when all of the points below are true: - The aircraft is at cruising altitude - The seatbelt sign is off - The cabin conditions are smooth and stable - You have your dog on a short lead or tether - Your dog stays within your immediate area and does not block the aisle If a crew member asks you to settle your dog, please follow that instruction straight away. ## When your dog must stay secured Your dog must stay secured next to you during: - Boarding and taxi - Take-off and climb - Descent and landing - Any turbulence (even light turbulence) - Any time the seatbelt sign is on - Any time the crew requests it for cabin safety Turbulence can start without warning. For that reason, it helps to keep your dog calm and close even when conditions feel smooth. ## Best practices for a calm cabin experience ### Before the journey - Give your dog a good walk and a bathroom break close to departure time. - Keep meals light. Avoid a large meal right before departure. - Offer water in small amounts, and bring a familiar bowl. - Pack a familiar mat or blanket that helps your dog settle. ### On board - Set up a clear “settle spot” at your feet using the mat or blanket. - Keep a harness on, and use a short lead so your dog stays close to you. - Encourage resting rather than exploring. Most dogs relax best when they can see you and stay in one place. - Avoid greetings with other dogs unless both families clearly want that interaction and the cabin situation allows it. - Keep the aisle clear at all times. ### If your dog needs a short stretch - Wait until cruising altitude and a seatbelt-off period. - Stand up slowly and keep your dog close to your legs. - Allow one or two minutes to stretch and reposition, then guide your dog back to the settle spot. ### If your dog feels unsettled - Keep your voice calm and your movements slow. - Offer reassurance and guide your dog back to the settle spot. - If you think your dog needs extra support, let the crew know early so the cabin set-up can stay calm for everyone. ## Important note Safety instructions from the crew always take priority, and on-board procedures can vary by aircraft and operating standards. If you have questions about your dog’s cabin set-up for a specific journey, contact Assistance before departure so you know what to expect.