Due to cabin pressure changes and confined spaces, airlines enforce strict weight limits, crate dimensions, and breed bans. Compare cabin (PETC) and cargo (AVIH) allowances, brachycephalic dog bans, fees, and required paperwork at a glance.
Comparison of Major Airlines
Latest pet policies for key airlines operating domestic and international routes from Korea.
KE
Korean Air (KE)
Flag Carrier · Cargo up to 32-45kg
기내 반입 (PETC)Up to 7kg (pet + crate)
규격: Sum <= 115cm (Soft crate max H 26cm, Hard H 20cm)
위탁 수하물 (AVIH)Up to 32kg (45kg on select routes)
규격: Sum <= 291cm (Height <= 84cm)
단두종 규정Strictly prohibited as checked baggage (Cabin only)
탑승 가능 연령8 weeks (domestic) / 16 weeks (international)
Strictly cabin carriage only for small pets and cats.
Brachycephalic (Short-Nosed) Breed Cargo Ban
Because short-muzzle breeds suffer severe respiratory distress, hyperthermia, and airway collapse under altitude changes, airlines worldwide ban them from cargo holds.
Brachycephalic animals can ONLY fly in the cabin if they meet the 7kg-9kg limit. During hot summer months (July-Sept), extra health assessments may apply even in the cabin.
단두종 반려견 금지 목록 (15종 이상)
Pug
Bulldog (English / French / American)
Shih Tzu
Pekingese
Boston Terrier
Boxer
Chihuahua
Shar Pei
Lhasa Apso
Mastiff
Chow Chow
Brussels Griffon
American Bully
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Japanese Chin
단두종 반려묘 금지 목록
Persian
Burmese
Himalayan
Exotic Shorthair
British Shorthair (select varieties)
4 Essential Crate Requirements
1. 3-Sided Ventilation
Adequate airflow openings on at least three sides are mandatory. Insufficient airflow leads to denied boarding.
2. Waterproof Base & Absorbent Mat
The floor must be leak-proof with an absorbent pet pad placed inside to prevent accidental soiling.
3. Secure Locking Mechanism
Equipped with sturdy, escape-proof locks or zippers that pets cannot push open from the inside.
4. Freedom of Movement
The animal must be able to stand naturally, lie down, and turn around without touching the roof or sides.
Crucial In-Flight Safety Rules
Opening the Crate Is Strictly Prohibited
Opening the crate or taking the pet onto your lap in-flight violates aviation safety laws. The carrier must stay stowed under the seat in front of you throughout the entire flight.
Sedatives and Tranquilizers Are Banned
Under IATA guidelines, administering tranquilizers or sedatives before flying is banned. Cabin pressure drops combined with drugs can cause hypothermia and respiratory arrest.
Fast 2-3 Hours Prior to Flight
To prevent nausea and motion sickness, refrain from feeding solid food 2-3 hours before departure; offer only small amounts of water.
Required Travel Paperwork
Domestic Flights (Jeju, Busan, etc.)
Pet Transport Declaration / Indemnity Form (completed at airport check-in counter)
Rabies Vaccination Certificate (recommended to carry in case requested)
Pet Registration Certificate (recommended for ID verification)
International Flights
Airline Passenger Declaration for Pet Carriage
Official Animal Health Certificate issued by Korean APQA quarantine office
Destination Country Prior Approval (US CDC Receipt, Japan MAFF Approval, Thailand Permit, etc.)
Rabies Antibody Titer Certificate (FAVN, if destination requires)