Virgin Australia Launches Pets In Cabin Flights: Everything You Need To Know

Virgin Australia has officially launched its long-awaited Pets in Cabin service, making it the first major Australian airline to allow pets in the aircraft cabin alongside their owners. Starting 16 October 2025, pet owners can book flights between Melbourne and the Gold Coast or Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast, with tickets now on sale for an introductory price of $149 per pet, per flight.

The service is running as a trial until 30 January 2026, after which Virgin Australia plans to expand Pets in Cabin across its domestic flight network.

A First for Australia’s Airlines

While in-flight pet services are common in the United States and Europe — with airlines like United Airlines, Air France and Air Canada already offering similar services — this marks the first time an Australian carrier has introduced a structured pets-in-cabin program.

Virgin Australia says the move is part of its customer-first innovation strategy, pointing to years of requests from frequent travellers who wanted to fly with their furry companions.

Pet Travel Details: How the Service Works

The Pets in Cabin service comes with clear rules to ensure animal welfare, passenger comfort, and smooth onboard operations.

Eligible Pets

• Small dogs and cats only.
• Cats are not permitted on the Melbourne–Gold Coast route during the trial phase.

Weight and Carrier Rules

• The pet plus carrier must weigh under 8kg combined.
• Carriers must be soft-sided, leak-proof and measure no more than 44cm (L) x 26cm (W) x 28cm (H).
• An absorbent mat must be placed inside.
• Approved carriers are available through major pet retailers.

Onboard Rules

• Pets must remain in their carrier for the entire flight.
• Carriers must be stowed under the seat in front of the passenger.
• Seating is restricted to two designated rows (seats 18A/18F and 20A/20F), with window seats only available.

Health and Safety Requirements

• Pets must be vaccinated and fit to fly.
• Pets under 8 weeks old are not allowed.
• Pets over 12 years old, brachycephalic breeds, pregnant animals, or those recovering from illness or surgery require a vet clearance certificate.

Limits Per Flight

• Only four pets per flight will be allowed in the cabin.

Booking Process

• Bookings can only be made by calling the Virgin Australia Guest Contact Centre.

Price and Trial Period

Virgin Australia is offering the service at an introductory price of $149 per pet, per sector.

The trial period runs until 30 January 2026, after which the airline will review passenger and pet owner feedback before expanding the program to more domestic routes.

Why Virgin Australia Introduced Pets in Cabin

Virgin Australia has been exploring the concept since March 2024, when it first announced its intention to trial pet travel in the cabin. The airline:

• Consulted with animal welfare organisations.
• Worked with accessibility groups to ensure inclusivity.
• Sought advice from international airlines already offering similar services.
• Reviewed traveller feedback to design a system that prioritises both pet safety and guest comfort.

The result is a carefully regulated model tailored for Australian travellers.

Airline Innovation and Customer Demand

Virgin Australia has a strong track record of industry-first initiatives. From being the first in Australia to offer online check-in and baggage tracking to introducing the quirky Middle Seat Lottery, the airline has consistently positioned itself as a leader in customer-focused innovation.

CEO Dave Emerson said, “Our guests have been telling us for years how much they want to travel alongside their pets, and now they finally can. With almost 70 per cent of households owning a pet, we expect the service to be embraced by pet lovers all around the country.”

The airline also expects the new service to give a boost to pet-friendly tourism, including hotels and operators catering to travellers with animals.

Health, Safety, and Comfort Onboard

Concerns about allergies and air quality have been a major focus during the development of the service. Virgin Australia reassures passengers that:

• Aircraft are fitted with HEPA filters that capture more than 99% of airborne particles, including pet dander.
• Cabin airflow circulates vertically, refreshing cabin air 20–30 times per hour.
• Buffer zones (two rows in front and behind pet seating areas) reduce allergen exposure.
• Guests with allergies can request alternative seating at no cost.

Dr Kelly Bofkin, Virgin Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, confirmed that all decisions were based on best medical evidence and extensive consultations with experts and allergy groups.

Strong Support from Australians

The demand for pets-in-cabin flights has been clear.

• A 2021 Virgin Australia social media survey showed 85% of respondents supported the service.
• Research from the Tourism and Transport Forum Australia found that 63% of pet owners currently leave their pets at home or with sitters because in-flight pet travel is unavailable in Australia.

Veterinarian and pet expert Dr Katrina Warren welcomed the move, calling it a “meaningful step forward” for pet owners nationwide.

What This Means for the Future of Pet-Friendly Travel

The launch of Pets in Cabin could transform the Australian domestic travel market. Beyond convenience for pet owners, the service is expected to drive growth in:

• Pet-friendly tourism — including accommodation providers, holiday parks, and resorts.
• Pet travel retail — such as carriers, accessories, and health certifications.
• Economic opportunities for the broader pet care industry.

As the service rolls out nationally in 2026, Virgin Australia is set to become the leader in pet-friendly air travel in Australia.

Key Takeaways: Virgin Australia Pets in Cabin

• ✈️ Launch date: 16 October 2025 (Melbourne–Gold Coast and Melbourne–Sunshine Coast).
• 🐾 Eligible pets: Small dogs and cats (cats not allowed initially on Melbourne–Gold Coast).
• 💰 Introductory price: $149 per pet, per flight.
• 🧳 Limit: Four pets per flight, 8kg max (with carrier).
• 📅 Trial ends: 30 January 2026, before full rollout across the domestic network.
• 📍 Booking: Call the Virgin Australia Guest Contact Centre.

Final Thoughts

Virgin Australia’s Pets in Cabin service is more than just a novelty — it’s a step toward more inclusive, customer-focused travel in Australia. By listening to passengers, working with experts, and drawing on global best practices, the airline is making it easier for Australians to explore the country without leaving their four-legged family members behind.

With demand already high and positive feedback from pet owners and veterinarians alike, the future looks bright for pet-friendly air travel in Australia.