EL AL Airlines Pet Policy +1-877419-4448

Traveling with pets is more popular than ever, and airlines around the world are adapting to meet the growing demand. If you’re flying with EL AL Airlines, understanding their pet travel rules is essential to ensuring a smooth journey for you and your animal companion. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the EL AL Airlines Pet Policy, including 2025 updates, travel options, pet restrictions, documentation, fees, and useful tips. Whether you’re heading to or from Israel, this guide is your go-to resource for navigating EL AL’s pet policies with confidence.

Introduction to EL AL Airlines Pet Policy outlines how and under what conditions animals may be transported on EL AL flights. Pets can travel in the cabin, in the cargo hold, or as manifest cargo depending on their weight, size, and destination. EL AL’s policy aligns with global aviation standards while ensuring pet safety and passenger comfort. In this article, we’ll explore each of these options in detail, provide updated information for 2025, and help you choose the best solution for your pet’s needs.

1. Pet Travel Options on EL AL Airlines EL AL provides three primary methods for transporting pets:

a. In-Cabin Pet Travel This is the most convenient method for small animals. Pets can travel in the cabin with their owner if they meet specific size and weight requirements.

In-Cabin Guidelines: Maximum weight (pet + carrier): 8–9 kg (approximately 20 lbs)

Carrier: Must fit under the seat and be leak-proof, soft-sided, and ventilated

Permitted animals: Cats, small dogs, and certain birds

Limit: One pet per passenger

Important: Pets must remain inside their carrier throughout the entire flight. Some routes (e.g., to the UK or Australia) do not permit pets in the cabin.

In this, we recommend checking route-specific rules during the booking process to avoid any surprises at the airport.

b. Checked Baggage – Cargo Hold TransportIf your pet exceeds the in-cabin weight or size limit, they may be transported in the cargo hold as checked baggage.

Guidelines for Cargo Hold Travel:

Weight limit (pet + crate): Up to 100 kg

Carrier type: Must be IATA-compliant (hard-sided, secure, ventilated)

Environment: Cargo hold is pressurized and temperature-controlled

Breed restrictions apply, especially for brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds such as bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats. These breeds may be restricted from cargo hold travel due to breathing risks.

The updated EL AL Airlines Pet Policy now requires additional documentation for certain breeds and destinations, as detailed later in this arictical.

c. Manifest Cargo (EL AL Cargo)Some animals cannot travel in-cabin or as checked baggage and must instead be transported through EL AL Cargo, the airline’s dedicated freight service.

This applies to:

Large pets (over 100 kg with the crate)

Pets flying unaccompanied

Restricted breeds

Destinations that only allow pet imports via cargo (e.g., UK, Australia)

This method is highly regulated and often involves customs clearance, additional paperwork, and early booking. Make sure to plan ahead—this recommends arranging cargo services at least 2–3 weeks before your departure.

3. Fees for Pet Travel with EL AL Airlines Pet transport is subject to additional charges based on weight, route, and method of travel. Below are the general rates under the 2025 EL AL Airlines Pet Policy:

In-Cabin Travel: Short-haul flights (Europe/Middle East): ~$100 USD one-way

Long-haul flights (US, Asia): ~$150 USD one-way

Checked Baggage: Pet + crate up to 50 kg: $200–$250 USD

Pet + crate 51–100 kg: $400–$450 USD

Cargo (Manifest):Pricing varies based on distance, animal type, crate size, and customs fees

Rates are provided by EL AL Cargo Services upon booking

This suggests factoring pet transport fees into your total travel budget early to avoid last-minute surprises.

4. Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)EL AL allows trained service dogs to travel in the cabin at no additional cost. However, they must meet strict documentation and behavior standards.

Service Animal Rules: Must assist a passenger with a certified disability

Must be harnessed and remain under control

Advance notice (at least 48 hours) is required

Documentation verifying the animal's training and role is mandatory

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer classified as service animals under EL AL’s policy. They must follow the regular pet travel process.

As this article notes, changes in international guidelines have influenced this updated policy, aligning EL AL with carriers worldwide.

5. Pet Travel Tips for EL AL Flights If this is your first time traveling with a pet, here are some expert tips from this article:

Book early: There are limited spaces for pets on each flight.

Train your pet: Get your pet used to their carrier well before travel.

Avoid feeding before departure: This reduces motion sickness and messes.

Arrive early: Check-in for pets may take longer than usual

Carry copies of all documents: Keep both digital and printed versions.

Planning ahead and staying organized can help make your pet’s trip as smooth and safe as possible.

6. Destination Restrictions Some countries have strict regulations on pet entry. According to the EL AL Airlines Pet Policy, you should be aware of the following:

Countries That Do Not Allow In-Cabin Pets: United Kingdom

Australia

South Africa

New Zealand

Japan (in some cases)

In such situations, pets must travel as manifest cargo, and quarantine periods may apply. This article recommends contacting the consulate or embassy for up-to-date import rules.

Final Checklist: Pet Travel with EL ALChoose the right method: cabin, checked baggage, or cargo
  Confirm your pet’s weight and crate dimensions
 Gather all required documents
 Contact EL AL customer service to reserve a pet spot
  Prepare your pet physically and emotionally
  Double-check destination-specific pet regulations
  Budget for all fees and travel accessories

Conclusion

The provides various options to ensure that you and your pet can travel together safely and comfortably. Whether you're traveling with a small dog in the cabin or shipping a large animal via cargo, EL AL offers flexibility for different needs. This has broken down every aspect of the policy to help you prepare thoroughly. With the right planning and proper documentation, flying with your pet on EL AL can be a smooth and positive experience. If you found this helpful, be sure to bookmark it and share it with other pet owners preparing for international travel!