For reptile enthusiasts or pet snake owners planning to travel, a common question arises: “Can you bring snakes on a plane?” None of the airlines allow flying with snakes in the cabin. In most cases, they are permissible only in the cargo hold. Moreover, another thing that you should keep in mind is that no airlines allow the carriage of venomous snakes on their flight, be it as checked baggage or in the cargo.
Understanding the policies related to the carrier, documentation, and safety measures should be done beforehand to guarantee that you and your pet have a smooth trip. This article will detail the rules and the procedures you should follow to bring a snake on a plane.
Airlines Policies to Consider Regarding Bringing Snakes on a Plane
Air Canada
Air Canada only allows cats and dogs as a part of their cabin baggage, the rest can go in as checked baggage and cargo. In most cases, reptiles are a part of the cargo. One rule of thumb for transporting snakes or exotic pets is that they should be protected from injury or harm when traveling via land or air. Moreover, if you plan to take snakes along, their pet career will be different from that of a dog or a cat. If you have any confusion regarding the same, seek advice from your veterinarian regarding the exact carrier for your pet.
Alaska Air
Smaller pets are allowed in the cabin, while bigger pets are permitted in the baggage compartment. However, to know if nonvenomous snakes are allowed as checked baggage or in the cargo you have to contact their customer service department.
American Airlines
As per the American Airlines pet policy poisonous nor venomous snakes aren’t permitted to be transported. However, if you are keen on knowing if American Airlines allows nonvenomous snakes or not, in that case, you need to contact the customer support department.
Delta Airlines
Snakes are not accepted as checked baggage by Delta Air Lines. According to certain criteria, however, snakes may be transported as cargo. Although transporting snakes as cargo might incur extra fees and certain restrictions, it is noteworthy that this option appears to be available.
Pet check-in at the airport incurs a fee for animals which will be charged during every stopover. The exceptions may be for connections with a duration of over 6 hours. Paved and Delta SkyMiles American Express Cardholders do not have any part in the bundled free luggage allowance. Nevertheless, your pet’s travel has no additional charges for size or extra weight.
Fees and Costs for Traveling with Snakes On A Plane
- In case you were wondering, “Can you bring snakes on a plane?” the average cost to transport snakes on domestic flights is between $100 and $200, though this might vary from provider to provider.
- For international flights, fees commonly go above $200 since they largely depend on the airline’s specific set of rules.
- Extra costs might come up through the size or weight of the snake, and the routing chosen. For those still inquiring whether “Can you bring snakes on a plane?”, it should be noted that expansion costs usually come with bigger snakes or longer routes.
- In addition, all fees can be counted as non-refundable; hence charges will be levied at every transit point thus increasing the overall travel fare.
Documentation and Health Requirements to Carry Snakes on a Plane
- Can you bring snakes on a plane? Not all airlines permit snakes, and even if some do, the venomous ones only, then too they are allowed in the cabin. However one of the primary requirements for this is a veterinary health certificate. A certificate issued by a qualified veterinarian serves to affirm that your snake is in good health and is suitable for travel. Most airlines and international authorities insist on this document being issued not later than 10 days before the flight.
- International travelers may need additional documentation if they will be allowed to carry snakes on the airlines they travel. Depending on whether you are traveling to or from a country you may be subjected to the need for import/export permits, species-specific certifications, and quarantine clearances. Such regulations may differ from one nation to another so you must research the rules of your destination properly ahead of time.
- When considering whether or not snake transport is allowed on a plane, the key criteria for compliance with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations have to be correctly met. These standards will stipulate the requirements of packaging (rigid plastic or metal), thereby proper ventilation and temperature control are guaranteed. Also, depending on transit’s climate conditions, the use of heating or cooling packs may be required.
Best Practices for Flying with Snakes
- Before the flight, ensure that the snake is already acquainted with its carrier, which will minimize anxiety on the travel day. The carrier must conform to the airline’s specifications, and the snake must have enough breathing space as well as a little area where it can fit comfortably.
- Snake safety and comfort are paramount during lengthy flights. Securely fasten the carrier in a way that movements are limited and do not fill the space with bedding or superfluous items. Hydration is vital so ensure the snake has enough moisture either through the use of soaked sponges or such water bowls that do not have liquid slump over the top.
- When it comes to the query “Can you bring snakes on a plane?”, the temperature is a very important factor. Snakes are very susceptible to extreme temperature conditions, so it is necessary to wrap cold or heat in accordance with the weather. In addition, you must be aware of restrictions imposed by your airline and destination, as it could be the case that your airline prohibits the transport of snakes at extremely high or low temperatures.
Airline Restrictions for Transporting Snakes
- When traveling with snakes it is vital to check the airlines’ rules regarding snakes. For instance, the Bordeaux Airport in France prohibits snakes as carry-on luggage, while other European low-cost carriers do not accept snakes for safety reasons.
- Snakes can be transported by airlines under temperature restrictions such as extreme heat or cold which may be harmful. On the other hand, most carriers will refuse the transportation of snakes during peak summer or winter months in certain regions. Find your airline’s policies about temperature-sensitive shipments to guarantee the safety of your pet.
- Some countries have strict regulations concerning the import of snakes, such as quarantine demands or complete bans of certain species. You should ensure that you study the country’s rules to avoid any problems with customs or animal control when you get there.
Conclusion
“Can you bring snakes on a plane?” is a question that can vary according to the policies of the airline, the requirements of the documentation, and the regulations/standards of the chosen destination. Even though many airlines offer snakes the allowance to travel by cargo, the rules regarding the type of container, health certificates, and temperature restrictions are strictly adhered to. This is a preparation process, alongside following best practices, and confirming all required regulations with the airline, you can ensure that the journey is safe and smooth for both the person and the snake. Be sure to check the guidelines for the airline and country you are traveling to on a case-by-case basis, further guaranteeing a trouble-free travel experience.
You May Read More: Air Serbia Baggage Policy
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can fly with a snake on an airplane, but it is mostly as a part of the cargo as most airlines are not permitted to have snakes in the cabin. Ensure to check the airline policies and proceed to the needed documentation before going there.
When you want to go with your snake, make sure to use a well-ventilated carrier, secure the carrier’s lock system, and that it meets the airline’s policies. Settle your snake comfortably and abide by the health and documentation rules for safe transport.
First, if you want to board an airplane with a snake, you need to know the airline’s policy because normally snakes are transported as cargo. You will need a secure, airline-approved carrier, veterinary health certificate, and possibly additional permits especially if you fly internationally. Don’t forget to book the ticket in advance and ensure that all the documents comply with the airline and IATA guidelines.
Most airlines allow non-venomous snakes to be transported in the cargo hold, such as pythons, boas, and corn snakes. Venomous snakes are generally prohibited due to safety concerns. Always check with the airline for specific restrictions.
