Can You Bring Rabbits on a Plane? 

Ever think, Can you bring rabbits on a plane? It is a common curiosity for pet owners whether they can travel with their pets. Although taking rabbits on a flight is not as common as taking dogs or cats, it is certainly not impossible, especially if adequate planning and preparation are done. Rabbits aren’t a popular pet choice either like dogs or cats. In the United States around 42% of households keep rabbits as pets. Yet, you might own a rabbit and are indeed curious to know if you can bring them on a plane. 

This post will examine the numerous details of air travel with rabbits and give you vital information that will lead to a stress-free trip for you and your pet bunny.

Let’s discover all the details!

Are Rabbits Allowed On A Plane? 

Many airlines allow rabbits on a plane. However, some of them, particularly the ones that other airlines operate don’t permit rabbits on board. So, when you board a flight, it is always important to know their pet policies and the fact if they allow rabbits or not. 

General Airline Policies for Bringing Rabbits on a Plane

The response to the query, “Can you take rabbits on a plane?”, is dependent upon the distinctive practices of each airline. The following is an outline of what is to be anticipated when traveling with your rabbit:

1. Aer Lingus

Aer Lingus allows rabbits to travel for a fee of 40 EUR on its regional-operated flights in checked bags. For cargo transport, specific details must be checked with Aer Lingus Cargo. Rabbits must be at least 10 weeks old to be eligible for travel with Aer Lingus. 

This is flexible for pet owners, whether their rabbits are flying in the baggage hold or as cargo, depending on the needs and regulations of the flight.

2. Air Baltic 

AirBaltic permits rabbits to be transported in checked bags but varies the fee according to the route, as high as 220 EUR one way and as low as 110 EUR. In addition, airBaltic provides the option of sending rabbits through cargo. 

However, it is always a better idea to consult the airline directly to obtain specific information regarding its prices and services. Additionally, an easily manageable choice of the best traveling solution for their fellows is assured by gaining first-hand knowledge of the trip’s requirements and the Travelling Pets Policy.

3. Air North

Air North has implemented several guidelines for the safe transportation of rabbits. For a fee of CAD 50 to CAD 56.50 one may be able to take the rabbit either in the cabin or as checked baggage on Air North. It is also possible that Air North takes care of rabbits as a cargo service; still, it would be better to inform oneself about the actual prices by calling the airline. The minimum age for rabbits should be no less than eight weeks. 

Air North’s transportation options are limited to Canadian domestic flights only. To take rabbits in the cabin they would have to be in a soft-shell carrier and the maximum dimensions will be determined by the type of aircraft. Besides, a passenger is only allowed to take one rabbit.

4. Air Europa

As for the Air Europa flights, they do allow rabbits to be transported in the cargo section. Contact the airlines to know more about the prices associated with it. They cover a total of 28 nations from Spain. For shipping the rabbits in the cargo hold, the age of the rabbits must be at least 3 months. A total of 2 rabbits can be shipped in one container with their weight being no more than 14 kg. What is more, there would be a maximum of 3 rabbits of the same litter aged not older than 6 months, allowed to be in one container.

5. Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines allows rabbits as onboard pets and checked baggage shipping at a $100 fee each way. They also permit rabbit travel through cargo, and further details about pricing can be obtained upon request. 

The airline services five countries from the United States of America. For in-cabin travel, the maximum carriers can go as follows – hard-sided carriers have to measure a maximum of 17″ L x 11″ W x 7.5″ H and soft-sided of no more than 17″ L x 11″ W x 9.5″ H.

6. All Nippon Airways

All Nippon Airways (ANA) offers checked baggage facilities for small animals like rabbits and customers have to pay a fee of between $50 and $400 each way, depending on the particular route. The airline may be contacted for more information about the transport of rabbits through cargo. ANA offers pet owners flexible travel options with its services to 22 countries from Japan.  However, it must be noted that they do not allow pets to travel in the cabin. 

7. Avelo Airlines

Avelo Airlines permits rabbits to travel in the cabin at $125 in each direction. This facility is being provided to passengers flying to two countries from the United States. Rabbits must comply with the in-cabin requirements of the airline to ensure a secure and pleasant journey. Moreover, you should keep the pet inside a container – hard or soft-sided stowed comfortably below the seat right in front of you. If you need more information about the guidelines for taking pets on board, you should connect with Avelo Airlines directly before your flight.

8. Corsair

Traveling with rabbits on Corsair is possible for a fee of EUR 50-100 in the cabin and EUR 100-200 for checked baggage for a one-way trip within the country. The airline services 11 countries from France. As per regulation, rabbits are classified as rodents, hence special guidelines for their transport are in effect. To get the full list of information, and requirements, and to know whether rabbits are permitted on flights passengers are advised to contact Corsair ahead of their flight.

9. Delta Air Lines

According to Delta Airlines, rabbits are permitted to travel as checked baggage. However, only active U.S. military personnel can avail of this option. This airline serves 56 countries from the U.S. and thereby gives military families the chance to transport their pets while on the move. If you are keen on flying with your rabbits on Delta, it is always important to get in touch with them before planning your journey.

10. Emirates SkyCargo

Emirates SkyCargo has the option to transport rabbits by cargo only, the prices for which are available upon request. This service is for pet owners flying to and from Emirates-serviced 74 countries from the UAE. Being a leading cargo carrier, Emirates SkyCargo has made sure that rabbits are supervised and properly taken care of during their transit. They are safely transported from one location to another in damaged and thus unsafe cages. The animal safety that they offer is a priority for the company. 

11. EVA Air

EVA Air allows traveling rabbits in checked baggage, with fees charged based on weight or by piece depending on the route. Cargo services are available for rabbits, but pet owners should contact the airline for the exact cost. EVA Air has a total portfolio of 22 nations from Taiwan, but note it does not allow animals to be carried aboard flights from China and on flights to and from Australia. 

For travelers with rabbits, the carrier provides the service of a maximum of two rabbits transported within one container, and up to three rabbits below 6 months old from the same litter may travel in a single container. No other pets except service dogs assisting passengers with disability are permitted on board. 

12. Finnair

On Finnair flights within the European Union countries, rabbits can be transported in the cabin at a cost ranging from 40 EUR to 75 EUR per way. If customers decide to check their bunnies, the pricing varies between 75 EUR and 300 EUR for the way of traveling. The airline authorities can also ship rabbits in a container, but they may contact Finnair regarding the freight rates. 

From Finland, Finnair serves 38 countries, but the restrictions are that total weight, including the pet, must not exceed 17 lb. The size limits for in-cabin carriers that Finnair requires are hard-sided carriers with a max size of 14″ L x 12″ W x 8″ H and soft-sided carriers with a max size of 22″ L x 18″ W x 10″ H, which will help ensure that rabbits are transferred comfortably and safely.

13. Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines permits the carriage of domesticated dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits cats,  small household birds, and hamsters for flights traveling within the US. A (one-way) directional charge does apply. The container must be big enough for your rabbit to stand, lie down or turn around with ease. Moreover, the size of the carrier should be such that it comfortably fits in the space to the front of where you are seating. The maximum dimensions for the container must be 18 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 8 inches high. For more information on carrying your rabbits or other pets, you have to contact Frontier Airlines customer service. 

14. ITA Airways

ITA Airways offers the possibility of taking rabbits in the cabin for a fee that is between 60 and 210 EUR each way and also allows them as checked baggage for a fee that is between 70 and 220 EUR each way. As customers can fly to 23 different countries from Italy, it provides a flexible option for pet owners wanting to travel with their furry friends. It is crucial to understand the specific requirements and guidelines for carrying devices in terms of dimensions and weight limits for a smooth trip.

15. Japan Airlines

Besides rabbits, Japan Airlines also allows the carriage of ferrets, squirrels, cats, dogs, small birds, chinchillas, hamsters, etc.  The airline offers a smooth way of traveling and staying near the pet rabbits for the owners. Rabbits can be flown as cargo for other global journeys, yet travelers must contact the airline directly to get the specific pricing information.

16. La Compagnie

La Compagnie is quite flexible regarding welcoming pets onboard under the best conditions possible. Small dogs, dwarf rabbits, and cats weighing below 8 kg or 18 lbs are permitted for cabin travel at $200 for each flight. The rules are subject to change so you should contact La Compagnie before planning to travel with your rabbit on board. 

17. Lufthansa Cargo

Lufthansa Cargo provides an exclusive pet transport service for rabbits, which transports them only in the cargo hold. Thus, your pet will have a secure and comfortable journey. The service brings peace of mind to the pet owners transferring the rabbits to various destinations as Lufthansa Cargo facilitates such transfers in 73 countries from Germany. Travelers must above all make sure of certain requirements and regulations including documentation and crate specifications.

18. Pacific Coastal Airlines

Pacific Coastal Airlines is a pet-friendly airline that allows rabbits to be transported in the cabin for only 52.50 CAD each way. For those who want to carry their bunnies in the baggage compartment, the cost is 105 CAD each way. This airline mostly operates domestic routes within Canada so it is a good option for pet owners who fly within the country. Adapting to particular airline rules is vital to ensure that all pets are content throughout the trip.

19. Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines allows the transportation of small domestic rabbits. You have to follow some rules and regulations for the same. For instance, your pet should be an average of eight weeks of age, and must even be weaned fully. You should even submit proper health certificates as proof of your rabbits’ overall well-being. 

20.WestJet

WestJet has a policy wherein rabbits can be transported as checked luggage for a fee which can vary between CAD/USD 100 and CAD/USD 118 each way, offered in 27 countries of the USA. In the interest of your pet rabbit’s safety and comfort during travel, the airline requests that the checked luggage be approved by the carrier and that the maximum size should be 40″ L x 27″ W x 30″ H. Due to security reasons, in-flight pet transportation may face restrictions that are determined by safety concerns and it usually has to do with extreme weather; particularly, whether it’s from May 1 to October 31.

Airline-Specific Policies for Rabbits

When planning air travel with your rabbit, the question “Can you bring rabbits on a plane?” is often followed by how to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for your pet. In the following, we highlight some primary tips on preparing your rabbit for air travel:

• Minimizing Stress During Flights: Rabbits are sensitive creatures. Sounds, hustle, and bustle can overwhelm them so they need to be kept calm. Your rabbit should be treated to a gradual progression of the travel carrier over the weeks leading to the flight. Letting it enter the carrier for short periods at home can help it get the security it needs, too. 
• Crate and Carrier Preparation: When deciding if you can take rabbits on a plane, the safety of your rabbit should be your top priority – this means that you need to ensure that its carrier meets the airline regulations. Make sure that the carrier is well-ventilated and your rabbit can move inside quite safely. Additionally, it should be small enough to comply with size restrictions. Make sure that the carrier is not easy for your rabbit to escape, and check that it is indeed well-ventilated to ensure that your rabbit is not going to be exposed to any dangerous substances during this flight.
• Packing Essentials: It is essential to prepare your rabbit’s favorite food and ensure they have access to water in unspillable containers, so they can enjoy toys, to keep them occupied during the journey. You may additionally involve your rabbit’s familiar bedding to help reduce anxiety levels. Supplying water in a bottle along with hay will help your rabbit stay nourished and hydrated during the flight.

Health and Safety Considerations

When raising the question: “Can you take rabbits on a flight?” it is a key responsibility to look into the health and safety aspects involved. To be wholly convinced that your rabbit will be safe during travel, you must be aware of the documentation that shall be needed, the health requirements that must be met, and the guidelines in different countries that must be adhered to.

• Necessary Health Certificates and Vaccination Records: You mus submit proper health certificate to confir, that your rabbit is of good health and doesn’t have any contagious disease.  

Although vaccinations are not a typical requirement for rabbits, it may be important to check with the airline and local authorities as some airlines or destinations may potentially have special requirements. 

• Quarantine Requirements in Different Countries: Traveling internationally, some countries may impose quarantine requirements for rabbits. For instance, some countries like Australia or New Zealand with strict law enforcement enact a mandatory quarantine period to prevent the transmission of disease. So, if you are traveling to any of these countries, it is essential to get the facts about the regulations or quarantine periods of the respective country to avoid unexpected delays or complications.
• Age Restrictions and Traveling with Young Rabbits: Age restrictions apply to rabbits on many airlines, along with other pets. Most airlines will not allow rabbits to be transported until they are 8-10 weeks old. A young rabbit can be easily stressed and has a weak immune system, making air travel very risky. To keep them healthy and safe, ask your veterinarian about the travel plan to follow if your rabbit is young.

Conclusion

In summary, the reply to the inquiry “Can you take rabbits on a plane?” is usually positive, but it varies according to specific airline policy and destination regulatory framework. By making proper preparations which entail the acquisition of the appropriate carrier, health certificates, and an understanding of the airline requirements, you can travel with your rabbit without stress. Always plan and ensure the comfort and safety of your pet for the whole trip.

You Can Read More: Can you Bring Dogs on Flights?

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