Traveling with Pets on Centrum Air Flights
Centrum Air strives to make flights comfortable not only for people but also for their four-legged friends. The carrier permits the transport of domestic animals (cats, dogs, and birds) both in the aircraft cabin and in the baggage hold, provided all safety norms and sanitary requirements are met. It is important to remember that this service requires prior approval and preparation, especially if you plan to depart from a major hub like Tashkent.
Transport Options
In the Cabin (Hand Luggage)
This option is suitable for small animals that can travel next to their owner under the seat in front. This is the least stressful method for the pet.
- Carrier Dimensions: The container or carrier bag must not exceed dimensions of 40×30×20 cm to fit freely under the seat.
- Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
- Permitted Animals: Usually, cats, small dogs, and songbirds (in covered cages) are allowed.
- Breed Restrictions: Aggressive dog breeds are not permitted for transport in the cabin.
- Limit per Passenger: One passenger may transport only one carrier.
In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)
If your pet weighs more than 8 kg, it must travel in a heated and pressurized baggage compartment. This is standard practice for medium-haul flights, for example, to Istanbul or other international destinations.
- Container Requirements: The cage must be rigid (plastic or wood), with a secure lock, ventilation, and a waterproof bottom. The animal must be able to stand up to its full height and turn 360 degrees.
- Weight and Size Restrictions: The maximum weight including the cage is usually limited to 32–50 kg (depending on the destination).
- Temperature Restrictions: The airline may refuse transport during extremely high or low air temperatures at departure or arrival airports.
- Required Documents: Original veterinary documents must be attached to the cage.
As Cargo (For Large Animals)
For very large dogs or exotic animals, as well as in the absence of an accompanying passenger, processing through the cargo terminal (Cargo) applies.
- When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds permissible baggage norms or if the destination country (e.g., when flying to Guangzhou) requires animals to be imported only as cargo.
- Special Requirements: Reinforced cage construction, additional labeling.
- Booking Procedure: Arranged through cargo agents separately from the passenger ticket.
Required Documents
The document package depends on the route. Requirements for domestic flights are more lenient than for international flights, for example, to Dubai or Moscow.
- Veterinary Passport: International standard with microchip records.
- Health Certificate: Form No. 1 (for departure) or an international veterinary certificate (issued at the airport by veterinary control). The validity of the certificate is usually 3–5 days before departure.
- Vaccinations: Valid vaccination against rabies (administered no earlier than a year and no later than 30 days before the flight) and viral infections.
- International Certificates: Additional permits or rabies antibody titers for entry into certain countries.
Service Cost
Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately. Prices may vary.
- Transport in Cabin: Fixed rate (usually the most budget-friendly option).
- Transport in Baggage Hold: Cost is calculated based on total weight (animal + cage) or as a fixed fee for a piece of excess baggage.
- Route Dependency: On international flights, for example, to Phuket, tariffs will be higher than on domestic flights within Uzbekistan.
Preparation Tips
To ensure a calm flight, start preparing in advance.
- Carrier Requirements: Purchase the container several weeks before the flight and let the animal get used to it at home. Line the bottom with an absorbent pad.
- Feeding: Do not feed the pet heavily 4–6 hours before the flight to avoid motion sickness, but ensure they are hydrated.
- Reducing Stress: Put a favorite toy or an item with the owner's scent in the cage. Consult a veterinarian about the need for mild herbal sedatives.
Restrictions
There are a number of strict prohibitions aimed at preserving the life and health of animals.
- Prohibited Breeds: Transport of brachycephalic dogs (with flattened muzzles: Bulldogs, Pugs, Pekingese) in the baggage hold is often restricted due to the risk of respiratory problems.
- Prohibited Animals: Rodents, reptiles, wild animals, sick animals, and laboratory animals.
- Exceptions: Guide dogs accompanying passengers with vision or hearing impairments are transported free of charge in the aircraft cabin (provided they have a muzzle and documents), regardless of weight.
Attention! The number of places for animals on board is limited. We strongly recommend booking the service and contacting Centrum Air immediately after purchasing a ticket, but no later than 24 hours before departure, to receive confirmation. Rules for importing animals into destination countries (for example, to Almaty or Baku) may change; please check them with the consulate.