Traveling with pets can be an emotional and logistical challenge, especially in countries where airline policies are strict and constantly evolving. In the Philippines, pet owners often struggle to understand which airlines allow animals on board and under what conditions. Whether relocating internationally or traveling domestically, knowing the right airline policies is essential to ensure a smooth and safe journey for your beloved companion.
This guide explains the current situation of pet friendly airlines in the Philippines and what pet owners should realistically expect before booking a flight.
Philippine Airlines (PAL)
Philippine Airlines is currently the most pet accommodating airline in the country. As the national carrier, it has taken steps to introduce more structured options for travelers who wish to bring their pets along.
Cabin Travel For Small Dogs
Philippine Airlines introduced a service that allows small dogs to travel inside the cabin on select domestic routes. This is a significant development in the Philippine aviation industry, as most airlines in the region traditionally restrict pets to cargo transport only.
The cabin option is typically limited to small dogs within a specific weight range and must be placed inside an airline approved carrier that fits under the seat. Availability is limited per flight, and advance booking is required. Health certificates, vaccination records, and compliance with airline guidelines are mandatory before departure.
While this option is currently limited to select routes and specific pet types, it represents a progressive shift toward more pet inclusive travel in the Philippines.
Pet Travel As Manifest Cargo
For larger dogs and other pets, Philippine Airlines also offers transport via manifest cargo. In this arrangement, pets travel in a temperature controlled compartment designed for live animals. Although pets are not in the passenger cabin, this method remains a safe and regulated way to transport animals domestically and internationally.
Strict documentation requirements apply, including veterinary certificates, vaccination proof, and coordination with cargo services. Proper crate standards must also be followed to ensure the animal’s comfort and safety during transit.
Cebu Pacific
Cebu Pacific is one of the largest low cost carriers in the Philippines. However, its pet policy is more restrictive compared to Philippine Airlines.
No Regular Cabin Pet Policy
Cebu Pacific does not allow household pets such as dogs and cats to travel in the passenger cabin under normal circumstances. The only exception generally applies to certified service animals that meet strict documentation and training requirements.
For most pet owners, this means cabin travel is not an available option when flying with Cebu Pacific.
Cargo Transport Option
Pets may be transported through Cebu Pacific Cargo services. In this case, animals are handled separately from passenger baggage and processed as live cargo shipments. This requires advanced booking, veterinary documentation, and compliance with crate specifications.
Although cargo transport is a common solution, it requires careful coordination to avoid delays or complications. Owners must ensure that all regulatory requirements are met, particularly for international travel.
Bringing Pets From The Philippines To Indonesia
For pet owners planning to bring pets to Bali or Indonesia, airline policy is only one part of the process. Import regulations in Indonesia are strict and require official permits, vaccination compliance, microchip identification, and coordination with quarantine authorities.
Most pets traveling internationally from the Philippines to Indonesia will need to be transported as manifest cargo rather than in cabin. The documentation process can be complex, and any mistake may result in entry delays or rejection.
This is why professional assistance becomes crucial. Airline booking, cargo coordination, veterinary documentation, and import permit processing must all align correctly before departure.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by the procedures or unsure which airline and transport method is best for your situation, Pet Travel Indo is here to help. Our team specializes in assisting pet owners with international pet relocation to Indonesia. We handle documentation guidance, airline coordination, and regulatory compliance so your beloved pet can travel safely and legally.
Visit https://pettravelindo.com to learn more and let our experts simplify your pet’s journey to Indonesia.
