Traveling with a guide dog can seem daunting, but understanding the rules and regulations can make the experience much smoother. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of airline policies and procedures to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for you and your canine companion.
Before embarking on any trip, consider whether air travel is the most suitable option for your guide dog. If you have any concerns, contact Guide Line at 0800 7811444 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or consult with the organization that trained your dog.
It’s crucial to inform the airline, tour operator, or booking agent that you plan to travel with your guide dog when booking your flight. Ideally, this should be done at least 48 hours in advance. However, airlines are expected to make reasonable efforts to accommodate guide dogs even with shorter notice. Contacting the airport and airline directly, even if you booked through a third party, is also recommended to confirm necessary arrangements for you and your dog.
Airlines are entitled to request proof that your guide dog is trained by a recognized organization. A list of these organizations can be found on the International Guide Dogs Federation (IGDF) or Assistance Dogs International (ADI) websites.
Your Guide Dogs or assistance dog ID book can serve as pre-flight booking evidence that your dog is trained by a recognized organization. The ID tag on the dog’s collar, harness, or jacket further confirms this status. Alternatively, you can obtain documentation by calling Guide Line or contacting the training organization.
During the booking process, coordinate with the booking agent or airline to determine where the Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM) agent will meet you within the airport. This agent will escort you through the airport and onto the aircraft from an agreed-upon location, such as the car park, railway terminus, or terminal building.
Prior to security and departures, the PRM agent should offer assistance in taking your dog to a designated relief area. The agent may also review necessary paperwork, such as your dog’s PETS passport, to ensure compliance with entry and re-entry requirements.
You will then be escorted through security and to the gate, where you and your dog will be among the first to board the aircraft, along with other PRM passengers. This ensures you are comfortably seated before the general boarding process begins.
Unlike pet dogs, recognized guide and assistance dogs are allowed to travel with their owners in the aircraft cabin on UK, European, and most international airlines. Airlines typically provide floor space in an adjoining seat or across the bulkhead at no extra charge. However, confirm with your airline, as some may offer additional floor space at a reduced cost.
Depending on the airline, your dog may have floor space next to you, or be expected to lie across your feet in the bulkhead row. Consider the length of the journey and your dog’s size when choosing an airline that offers the best option for both of you.
Guide Dogs, along with Airlines UK, has created a guide on the mandatory use of dog restraining harnesses in the cabin. This guide explains what a restraining harness is, when it should be used, and which harness types are unsuitable for air travel. The right harness ensures your dog’s safety and comfort throughout the flight.
Water is essential for your dog during a flight. While restrictions apply to liquids through airport security, water can be purchased in the departure area or on the aircraft. Cabin staff may also provide water free of charge. Ice cubes can be a helpful alternative to water, reducing the risk of spills.
For long-haul flights (over three hours), consider additional provisions for your dog, as detailed in the Welfare considerations page. This ensures their well-being throughout the journey.
Confirm with your airline or booking agent the procedures for processing your dog at your destination airport, both upon entry to the country and before your return to the UK. These procedures may differ from those in the UK, so it’s crucial to be prepared.
Upon returning to the UK, a PRM or Animal Health staff member will meet you on the aircraft or inside the terminal to conduct PETS checks before your dog re-enters the country. Information about the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) requirements can be found on the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) page.
If requested, the PRM agent should accompany you through Border Control, baggage reclaim, and to an agreed-upon point within the airport where you are being met or continuing your journey. This ensures a smooth and stress-free arrival.
In conclusion, with proper planning and communication, traveling with a guide dog on planes can be a safe and comfortable experience. By understanding the airline policies, preparing the necessary documentation, and coordinating with airport staff, you can ensure a smooth journey for both you and your loyal companion. Always prioritize clear communication with airlines and relevant organizations to address any specific concerns or requirements.
