Virgin Australia Pioneers Pet-Friendly Travel as First Aussie Airline

Virgin Australia is stepping up its game by introducing a new service that allows pets to travel in the cabin, making it Australia’s first truly pet-friendly airline. This initiative was announced on September 17, 2025, and is set to begin as a trial on selected flights from Melbourne to the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. The inaugural flight will take off from Melbourne Airport (MEL) on October 16, 2025.

Initially revealed in March 2024, this service is the result of Virgin Australia’s collaboration with other airlines and insights from animal welfare organizations. The airline has also been actively gathering feedback from frequent travelers to refine the service further.

“Our guests have expressed a desire to travel with their pets for years, and we’re excited to finally cater to that wish,” stated Dave Emerson, CEO of Virgin Australia Group. He added that this model has proven successful in the US and Europe, and they’re thrilled to bring it to Australia.

Key Information for Passengers Traveling with Pets

Currently, only small dogs and cats are allowed on these particular flights, with a temporary restriction on cats traveling from Melbourne to the Gold Coast. Each flight can accommodate up to four pets to ensure a comfortable environment.

Virgin Australia specifies that pets must be transported in an approved soft-sided carrier with maximum dimensions of 44 x 26 x 28 cm. The combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed eight kilograms.

Additionally, the carriers need to be stored under the seat in front of the owner, and pets must remain inside them throughout the flight. Passengers traveling with pets will also be assigned window seats in designated rows.

Finally, pets must have up-to-date vaccinations before traveling. Animals with specific health issues, those under eight weeks or over 12 years old, or those belonging to breeds known as brachycephalic, will need a veterinary certificate confirming they are fit to fly.

Ensuring Comfort for Allergic Passengers

Dr. Kelly Bofkin, the Group Medical Officer at Virgin Australia, emphasized the airline’s commitment to addressing allergy and hygiene concerns with a thorough approach.

The aircraft are equipped with advanced HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration systems. These systems can capture over 99% of airborne particles, including pet dander. Moreover, the cabin air is refreshed 20-30 times per hour, reducing the spread of airborne allergens.

To further minimize allergen exposure for other passengers, the airline has introduced “buffer zones,” consisting of two rows in front of and behind the designated pet rows.

The inclusion of pets in the cabin mirrors practices already adopted by major airlines in North America and Europe, such as United Airlines, Air France, and Air Canada.