Pet Airways Allows Pets to Fly as Real Passengers

At 95 pounds, I’m a little too big to fit under an airplane seat. And my family is uncomfortable with bringing me along in an airplane cargo hold (Hello?!?! I’m a dog, not luggage!). So that’s why we’re all doing a little dance over the possibility of sending me along as a “pawsenger” on an airline dedicated only to pets.

Pet Airways is scheduled to begin flights on July 14 as the “first pet-only airline,” allowing your best friend to chill out in a temperature-controlled airplane cabin, get ample food and water, bathroom breaks before and after the flight, and attention from attendants during the trip. Pet Airways was created by Dan Wiesel and Alysa Binder to provide a safe and comfortable solution for the transportation of pets. Inspiration for the airline came from the difficulties they encountered when shipping Zoe, their Jack Russell Terrier, across the country.

Photo: Pet Airways

Just five cities are on Pet Airways’ service list for now (with weekly service to Chicago; Denver; Los Angeles; New York and Washington, D.C.), however the airline plans to expand nationwide. One-way service starts at $149. My family has already voted for San Francisco to New Orleans service. I want to get to the Crescent City for Marley Gras (Fat Marley)!

While Pet Airways doesn’t take entire families (pets and their people) together on flights, people can track their pet’s flight status by e-mail, phone and the airline’s Web site. And when dropping their buddies off at Pet Airways’ Pet Lounge, families can be assured that their pet will get a comfortable travel experience—far better than being in the belly of a plane.