How much is the pet fee charged by Air Canada?

If you’re planning to fly with your dog or cat, one of the first things you’ll want to know is: How much does Air Canada charge for pets? The Fee varies among $50CAD/USD to $400CAD/USD depends on where you’re flying, how your pet is traveling (in cabin, checked, or cargo), and the size of your animal. Air Canada updates its charges from time to time, so it’s always smart to double-check your exact route with an agent or a pet travel specialist. Many travelers confirm the latest fee for their specific flight by speaking with support at +1 (866) 558-3017 before they finalize plans. In this blog, We will delve into the details of Air Canada Pet Fee and its scenarios.

Quick Answer: Typical Air Canada Pet Fees in 2025

Here’s the basic range most pet owners see:

• In-cabin pets fee (small dogs and cats): usually around $105–$126 CAD/USD on flights within Canada and to/from the U.S.
• International in-cabin pets: generally $270–$324 CAD/USD.
• Checked pets (baggage hold): route-based, often similar to in-cabin ranges on comparable flights.
• Cargo pets: priced individually based on weight, kennel size, and route.

These amounts are charged per direction, so a round trip normally means paying the pet fee twice.

If you’re unsure which category your pet will fall into, it’s helpful to go over your itinerary and pet details with a specialist on +1 (866) 558-3017 so you don’t underestimate costs.

Why Air Canada’s Pet Fees Vary

Air Canada’s pet fees aren’t random; they reflect several real expenses:

• Limited cabin and hold space reserved for animals
• Extra handling and safety checks at check-in
• Training staff to manage live animals
• Longer flight time and operational costs on international routes
• Additional requirements for documentation, especially across borders

This is why a short domestic hop with a cat in the cabin is far cheaper than flying a large dog via cargo to Europe or Asia.

In-Cabin Pet Fees: Small Dogs and Cats

Only small pets that can fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat are eligible for cabin travel.

Within Canada and to/from the U.S.

On these routes, expect to pay about $105–$126 CAD/USD for an in-cabin pet. That charge covers handling and the limited space Air Canada allocates for animals on each flight.

International Routes

For overseas trips, in-cabin fees usually fall between $270–$324 CAD/USD. The higher cost reflects longer flying time, increased handling, and tighter international pet capacity.

Because cabin pet spots are limited, many owners first book their ticket and then immediately confirm pet availability through an agent or a pet travel service at +1 (866) 558-3017 so they don’t get caught without space.

Fees for Pets Traveling as Checked Baggage

If your dog or cat is too large for an under-seat carrier but still within Air Canada’s kennel and weight limits, they may travel in the pressurized baggage compartment as checked baggage.

The fee for checked pets:

• Depends on your origin and destination
• Can be similar to or slightly higher than in-cabin rates on the same route
• May change with seasonal restrictions and aircraft type

Because not every aircraft accepts animals in the hold, it’s wise to confirm that your specific flight allows checked pets before you assume the fee. This is another case where a quick call to +1 (866) 558-3017 can prevent surprises.

Air Canada Cargo: Pricing for Larger or International Pets

For pets that are too big for cabin or checked travel—or for destinations that require cargo-only arrival—Air Canada Cargo handles the trip.

Cargo rates are not flat fees. The custom fee Structure is As Follow:

• The combined weight of pet and kennel
• Kennel dimensions
• Departure and arrival airports
• Time of year and routing
• Any special handling requirements (for example, snub-nosed breeds)

Because of that, most travelers get an estimate by providing their pet’s details and route to a cargo agent or pet travel expert via +1 (866) 558-3017, then budgeting from that quote.

Why International Pet Travel Costs More

Going abroad with a pet has more steps and more people involved, which is why fees increase on international routes.

Extra costs usually come from:

• Checking health certificates and vaccination records
• Coordinating with customs and border officials
• Longer sector times and limited animal space on long-haul aircraft
• Meeting import rules that vary from country to country

Certain destinations like the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong only allow pets to arrive as cargo, not in cabin or as checked baggage, which also changes the pricing structure.

When and How Pet Fees Are Charged

Air Canada charges pet fees at the airport during check-in, not when you buy your ticket online. D oing it this way allows staff to:

• Verify that your carrier or kennel meets size rules
• Review any required documentation, especially for international flights
• Confirm that pet capacity has not been exceeded on that flight

Remember: the fee is per one-way segment, so each direction of travel will be charged separately.

Are Air Canada Pet Fees Refundable?

In general, pet fees are non-refundable if you decide not to travel or cancel your plans. There are exceptions, such as:

• Air Canada cancels your flight
• The aircraft type changes and can no longer accept pets
• A weather-related embargo prevents pets from being transported safely

If you’re worried about changing plans, it’s worth discussing options with an agent or specialist before travel.

What Can Change Your Final Cost?

Your total out-of-pocket cost isn’t just the published pet fee. It can also be affected by:

• Whether your pet travels cabin, checked, or cargo
• The regions you’re flying through
• Kennel size and weight
• Seasonal temperature rules that restrict hold or cargo travel
• Breed-specific requirements, especially for brachycephalic or strong breeds

Because of all these moving parts, owners with complex routes or large dogs often get a detailed breakdown from a pet travel consultant via +1 (866) 558-3017 so they know the true total before booking.

Is Flying a Pet on Air Canada Worth the Fee?

For many pet owners, the answer is yes. Air Canada is definitely worthy as it multiple facilities as follow:

• Cabin travel for small dogs and cats
• Checked baggage options on many routes
• Full cargo services for large or internationally restricted pets
• Clear, published rules and regularly updated guidance

While the fees are not trivial, they are in line with or slightly better than many competing full-service airlines, especially on routes within Canada.

How to Avoid Unexpected Extra Charges

A few simple steps can keep your pet travel costs under control:

• Measure your carrier or kennel carefully before you leave
• Confirm that your aircraft type accepts pets in your chosen mode (cabin, checked, or cargo)
• Prepare health documents early for international flights
• Avoid connecting flights when possible, especially in extreme weather
• Double-check any breed restrictions or seasonal embargoes

When in doubt, running your plan past a knowledgeable agent or pet travel service at +1 (866) 558-3017 can help prevent last-minute fees or denied boarding.

Conclusion

The pet fee on Air Canada in 2025 usually falls somewhere between $105 and $324 CAD/USD for most standard in-cabin and checked scenarios, with cargo prices quoted individually. The exact amount for your trip depends on your route, your pet’s size, and how they’re traveling.

If you want a precise number tailored to your itinerary, the safest approach is to confirm with an agent or dedicated pet travel support using your route, dates, and pet details so you know exactly what to budget before you fly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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