Pet Travel Guide for Pacific Coastal Airlines
Pacific Coastal Airlines understands that pets are an important part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable and safe as possible. Whether you are heading to Kelowna for a vacation or returning home to the coast, the airline offers flexible options for transporting cats, dogs, and other small animals across its network in British Columbia.
Transport Options
Depending on the size of your pet and the nature of your trip, there are three main ways to transport animals. It is essential to book your pet's space well in advance, as the number of animals allowed per flight is strictly limited due to the smaller size of regional aircraft.
In Cabin (Carry-on)
Small pets can travel with you in the passenger cabin, provided they remain in their carrier throughout the flight.
- Carrier Dimensions: Soft-sided carriers are required. The maximum dimensions are typically around 43 cm x 25 cm x 25 cm (17 in x 10 in x 10 in) to fit comfortably under the seat.
- Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed approximately 10 kg (22 lbs).
- Allowed Pet Types: generally limited to small cats and dogs.
- Limit per Passenger: Usually one pet carrier per paying passenger.
- Placement: The carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)
Larger animals that do not fit in the cabin can travel in the temperature-controlled baggage compartment of the aircraft.
- Container Requirements: Pets must be in a rigid, IATA-approved hard-shell kennel (plastic or fiberglass) with secure metal door latches. Wire cages are not permitted.
- Weight and Size Limits: The maximum weight for the pet and kennel combined is typically 64 kg (140 lbs). However, due to the cargo door size of the Saab 340 and Beechcraft 1900 aircraft, extra-large crates (e.g., Giant series 700) often cannot be accommodated.
- Temperature Restrictions: For safety, pets will not be accepted as checked baggage if the temperature at any point on the itinerary is too hot or too cold (typically below -10°C or above 29°C).
- Comfort: The crate must be large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
As Cargo
This option is managed through the airline's cargo division and is distinct from checked baggage.
- When Required: This is necessary for unaccompanied minors (pets traveling alone) or for animal crates that exceed the size or weight limits for checked baggage but can still fit through the cargo door.
- Special Requirements: Waybills and specific cargo handling procedures apply.
- Booking Procedure: You must coordinate directly with Pacific Coastal Airlines Cargo department rather than passenger reservations.
Required Documentation
To ensure a smooth check-in process, have the following documents ready, especially if connecting to other airlines or traveling internationally later:
- Veterinary Passport / Health Record: Proof of the pet’s identity and ownership.
- Health Certificate: A certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian confirming the animal is fit to fly (typically required within 10 days of travel).
- Vaccination Records: Up-to-date proof of rabies vaccination and other standard shots.
- International Certificates: Relevant customs and agriculture forms if your final destination is outside Canada (e.g., transfers to the UAE or USA).
Service Costs
Pet travel fees are charged per direction and are subject to applicable taxes. Prices listed below are estimates and vary by route and fare class.
- In-Cabin Fee: Approximately $50.00 - $75.00 CAD per direction.
- Checked Baggage Fee: Approximately $75.00 - $105.00 CAD per direction.
- Cargo Fee: Calculated based on the dimensional weight of the crate and the distance flown.
- Note: Prices vary by route, for instance, a short hop between Vancouver and Nanaimo may have different applicable surcharges compared to longer routes.
Preparation Tips
Flying can be stressful for animals, so proper preparation is key to a good experience.
- Acclimatize Your Pet: Let your pet spend time in their carrier or crate days or weeks before the flight to get used to the environment.
- Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 to 6 hours before departure. Avoid feeding right before flying to prevent motion sickness.
- Hydration: Offer water right up until departure and ensure the crate has a spill-proof water dish attached to the door for checked pets.
- Exercise: Take your dog for a long walk before heading to the airport to help them relax.
- ID Tags: Ensure your pet has a collar with an ID tag and that the crate is clearly labeled with your name and phone number.
Restrictions
For the safety of the animals and passengers, Pacific Coastal Airlines enforces specific restrictions.
- Prohibited Breeds: Strong-jawed or "fighting" breeds (e.g., Pit Bulls, Staffordshire Terriers) may be restricted or require reinforced crates.
- Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed dogs and cats (like Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) are often restricted from checked baggage due to respiratory risks at high altitudes or temperatures.
- Prohibited Animals: Rodents, reptiles, and poisonous animals are generally not permitted in the cabin.
- Age Limits: Puppies and kittens must usually be at least 8 weeks old to travel.
- Exceptions: Certified Service Animals traveling to assist passengers with disabilities are exempt from fees and cabin carrier requirements, provided proper documentation is submitted in advance.
Important: Airline policies regarding pets are strictly enforced and can change due to weather, aircraft type, or operational needs. We strongly recommend contacting Pacific Coastal Airlines directly at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm your reservation and verify current requirements.