Are you a pet parent who loves to travel? Well, we have some fantastic news for you! Virgin Airlines has announced their plans to allow dogs and cats in the cabins of their planes during flights. This means that you can now have your furry friend by your side while you jet off to your favorite destinations.
Now, you might be wondering, “Is this the first airline to offer this service?” And the answer is a resounding yes! Virgin Airlines will be the pioneering airline in Australia to introduce pets in the cabin. Talk about breaking new ground!
But why now, you may ask? It turns out that Virgin Airlines conducted a survey in 2021, and a whopping 85% of respondents voted in favor of allowing pets in the cabin. And that’s not all – 57% of those surveyed even said that they would fly more frequently if they could bring their pets along. So, the demand is clearly there!
Jayne Hrdlicka, the CEO of Virgin Airlines, shared her excitement about this new initiative. She said, “Our love for animals has always been in the Virgin Australia DNA, and we are thrilled about the prospect of launching Australia’s first-ever pets in cabin flights. It’s a common practice overseas and has been proven to work well.”
Now, let’s address some of the questions you might have. First, you may be concerned about traveling with your assistance animal. Don’t worry – the presence of pets in the cabin will not affect the allowance of assistance animals. They can still travel at no cost, just as before.
For those of you with small dogs or cats, as long as they can fit comfortably in a carrier underneath the seat in front of you, they’re welcome to fly in the cabin. There will be a designated carrier for your beloved pet to ensure their safety and the comfort of other passengers.
As for any potential allergies, Virgin Airlines is aware of the importance of minimizing the impact on guests who are not traveling with pets. They are diligently working on creating a safe and comfortable environment for all passengers, even those who may have allergies.
While there will be a fee for passengers who choose to bring their pets on board, the exact cost has not been disclosed yet. Rest assured, Virgin Airlines is taking every measure to ensure a positive experience for everyone on the flight.
So, get ready to embark on your next adventure with your four-legged companion by your side. Virgin Airlines is paving the way for an unforgettable travel experience that is inclusive of all members of your family. Happy travels!