The 8 Best Dog Friendly Airlines in South America
Want to fly with your dog as a pet in cabin on your upcoming trip to South America? Thankfully, finding an airline is easy! Read on for a list of the 8 most dog friendly airlines in South America – along with their pet in cabin policies – to help you book your flight.
Traveling internationally with your dog is something that brings a lot of joy, but also a lot of challenges. One of those challenges is finding airlines that allow your fur baby to fly with you in cabin. Thankfully, this part is pretty easy in South America! In our nearly two years of full-time travel with our 7 lb (3.5 kg) cavapoo, Cali, we’ve traveled on 8 different airlines (and counting!) to countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. So far, airlines in South America have been some of the most pet friendly in the global market. With generous size and weight allowances and relatively low fees, it’s a great place to fly with your dog. In this post, we’ll provide you an overview of the best dog friendly airlines in South America, along with a few of our top tips for flying internationally with your pup.
New to flying internationally with your dog in cabin? Check out our comprehensive guide. We’ve also got a post with all the essential dog travel gear you’ll need for flights and tips for finding the best pet friendly hotels and Airbnbs. Happy travels!
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Dog Friendly Airlines in South America Guide - At a Glance:
Market Overview: South America Pet Friendly Airlines
We have great news – airlines in South America are super dog friendly. In fact, we couldn’t find a single major carrier that did not allow pet in cabin! Not all pet in cabin policies are the same, of course, so you’ll always want to read the detailed pet policy carefully. In particular, pay attention to any disallowed routes, as some carriers will not allow pet in cabin on flights to the United States, United Kingdom, and other countries due to the strict import requirements of those countries. But, in general, you’re pretty safe to assume you’ll be able to bring your fur baby with you on your upcoming flight! We’ll highlight the best airlines in South America to fly with your dog in our airline overviews below, but the TLDR is that LATAM, Avianca, and Copa are the most dog friendly airlines in South America.
Airline
LATAM
Avianca
GOL
Copa
Azul
Argentinas
Sky
JetSMART
Pet Policy
Generous
Generous
Average
Generous
Average
Average
Strict
Strict
Fee Range
$16-$250
$20-$190
$36-$144
$25-$125
$55-$250
$17-$295
$49-$85+
$15-$80+
Availability
Average
Generous
Generous
Low-Book Early
Average
Unknown
Low-Book Early
Low-Book Early
Picking the best pet friendly flight for you and your dog goes beyond just choosing the right airline though. You’ll want to consider the number (and location) of connecting flights, whether those airports have pet relief areas, and more.  Check out our complete guide to flying internationally with your pet for all of our top tips and recommendations. You’ll also need to make sure you have an appropriately-sized, airline-approved carrier for flight. We use and highly recommend the Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier – learn more about it and other essential dog travel gear for flights in our post here.
How We Compiled Our List of Dog Friendly Airlines in South America
Before we get into the list, it’s important to discuss how we compiled it, as the method always influences the outcome:
- We only included airlines that are pet friendly. This means we’re only considering the rules for pets, not service animals or emotional support animals, which may receive exceptions pets do not. This also means we’re only including airlines that are pet friendly, meaning they all your dog to fly with you in cabin. Checking our dog as cargo makes us extremely nervous, and is something we avoid at all costs. This means our list will be tailored for people flying with small dogs (and likely cats), and not to those with larger animals that would be required to fly as cargo regardless of the airline’s pet in cabin policy.
- This is not intended to be a fully exhaustive list of every pet friendly airline you could use to fly into or within South America. Instead, we considered the largest airlines servicing the region – regardless of their headquarters – as well as some niche airlines that service particular tourism hotspots.
The Top Airlines in South America That Allow Pet in Cabin
Alright, that’s enough introduction, let’s get into the list of pet friendly airlines in South America!Â
Pro tip: Airline pet in cabin policies are always subject to change. Make sure to read the details on their site carefully before booking your ticket.
LATAM Airlines is the largest carrier (by number of passengers) in South America, and it’s one of the most dog friendly airlines in South America. Uniquely, LATAM does not have a maximum weight requirement, ideal for any tiny chonkers out there. They also do not have any breed restrictions. Plus, their fees are really reasonable for domestic travel, making them one of the best South America airlines to fly with your pet.
- Pets Permitted to Fly:Â Dogs and cats older than 16 weeks
- Max Weight:Â None, as long as it fits in the carrier (including the ability to stand and turn around comfortably)
- Max Carrier Size:Â Hard-sided carriers up to 13 in wide x 14 in long x 7.5 in high (33 cm x 36 cm x 19 cm) or soft-sided carriers up to 11 in wide x 16 in long x 10 in high (28 cm x 40 cm x 25 cm)
- Seat Restrictions:Â Economy or Premium Economy, aisle seats only
- Pets per Person/Flight:Â 1 per person, 6 per flight
- How to Book:Â After purchasing your ticket, call their reservation center or contact LATAM via WhatsApp at least 4 hours before departure
- Fee Range: ~$16 to $250, depending on which country(s) you’re flying within or between. Pay the fee when reserving the service or at the airport on the day of travel.
- Disallowed Pets:Â Pregnant pets, sedated pets
Colombia-based Avianca is the second-largest carrier in South America. We flew Avianca from Mexico City, Mexico to Medellin, Colombia and had a great experience. While they are a bit on the budget side – don’t expect any free snacks on your journey – their pet in cabin policy is very generous, allowing pets up to 22 lbs (10 kg) on board and with minimal breed restrictions. Their ground crew in Mexico City was also extremely helpful in checking us in at the last minute after a snafu with Cali’s paperwork – don’t let this happen to you! Learn from our mistakes and make sure you’ve got all your necessary paperwork before you get to the airport – read more in our ultimate guide to flying internationally with a dog.
- Pets Permitted to Fly: Dogs and cats older than 4 months
- Max Weight: 22 lbs (10 kg), including carrier
- Max Carrier Size: 14 in wide x 22 in long x 10 in high (35 cm x 55 cm x 25 cm), soft-sided carriers only
- Seat Restrictions: Business class not allowed on 787 aircrafts
- Pets per Person/Flight: 1 per person, up to 15 per flight – great for last-minute bookings!
- How to Book: After purchasing your ticket, call their contact center or chat with them on WhatsApp to request the service at least 48 hours before departure
- Fee Range: ~$20 to $190, depending on which country(s) you’re flying within or between. You can pay the fee when calling to arrange the service or at the airport on the day of travel. However, the prices are higher on the day of flight, so we don’t recommend waiting.
- Disallowed Pets: Aggressive breeds. Avianca does not mention restrictions for pregnant or sedated pets, but we don’t recommend flying with them.
The largest Brazil-based airline, Gol is a key carrier for flying into or around Brazil. While their weight allowance is generous and their fees are reasonable, be aware that fees are charged per segment, so you’ll want to avoid connections with GOL. Also, be aware that GOL does not currently allow pets to fly in cabin on routes to or from the United States.
- Pets Permitted to Fly:Â Dogs and cats older than 6 months (older than most airlines)
- Max Weight:Â 22 lbs (10 kg), including carrier
- Max Carrier Size:Â Hard-sided carriers up to 12.5 in wide x 17 in long x 8.5 in high (32 cm x 43 cm x 22 cm) and soft-sided carriers up to 12.5 in wide x 17 in long x 9.5 in high (32 cm x 43 cm x 24 cm)
- Seat Restrictions:Â Window seats only, Economy or Premium Economy class
- Pets per Person/Flight:Â 1 per person, 8 per flight
- How to Book: For tickets purchased in Brazil, the service must be requested at the time of booking. Otherwise, you can add the service by calling customer service after purchasing your ticket but at least 2 hours before departure
- Fee Range: 200 BRL (~$36) for domestic flights and 800 BRL (~$144) for international flights, per segment (be careful of connections!). You can pay the fee when calling to arrange the service or at the airport on the day of travel. However, the prices are higher on the day of travel, so we don’t recommend waiting.
- Disallowed Pets:Â None specifically mentioned, but we do not recommend flying with pregnant or sedated animals
While Copa is actually a Panamanian airline, they serve as a strategic hub connecting North and South America. This means they have a very high international passenger volume to and from South America, so you may see them as an option for your flight. If you do, don’t hesitate to book! They are one of the best dog friendly airlines in South America on this list. Their size and weight limits are generous, their fees are reasonable, and their pet policy doesn’t mention any breeds that are restricted from flight.
- Pets Permitted to Fly:Â Dogs and cats older than 16 weeks (24 weeks if flying to the United States)
- Max Weight:Â 22 lbs (10 kg), including carrier
- Max Carrier Size:Â 11 in wide x 18 in long x 11 in high (28 cm x 46 cm x 28 cm), soft-sided only
- Seat Restrictions: No bulkhead, first row, or exit row seating (this is standard). Not allowed in Business class.
- Pets per Person/Flight:Â 1 per person, 3 per flight (book early!)
- How to Book:Â After purchasing your ticket, request the service by calling customer service at least 48 hours before departure
- Fee Range: $25 for domestic flights and $125 for international flights, plus $125 for connections between domestic and international flights. Pay the fee when booking or at the airport on the day of travel.
- Disallowed Pets:Â None specifically mentioned, but we do not recommend flying with pregnant or sedated animals
Another Brazilian airline, Azul is particularly important if you’re traveling within the country. Fees are reasonable when flying within South America, but they are charged per leg, so try to avoid connections! Additionally, be aware that the maximum height for carriers is a bit stricter than other airlines, so make sure you fit the requirements before booking. Finally, note that Azul also does not allow pet in cabin for flights to the United States (inbound to Brazil is ok).
- Pets Permitted to Fly:Â Dogs and cats older than 4 months
- Max Weight:Â 22 lbs (10 kg), including carrier
- Max Carrier Size:Â 12.5 in wide x 17 in long x 8 in high (31.5 cm x 43 cm x 20 cm), hard-sided or soft-sided
- Seat Restrictions: Window seating only, in the first few or last few rows (check specifics on the website before booking, as this varies by aircraft). Business class is available on certain aircraft.
- Pets per Person/Flight:Â 1 per person, 3-5 per flight
- How to Book: Add the service online or on the Azul app when purchasing your ticket or afterwards. No specific booking deadline is mentioned in their pet in cabin policy.
- Fee Range:Â 300 BRL ($55) for flights within South America and 1,400 BRL ($250) for flights between Brazil and the United States or Europe, per segment (be careful of connections!). Pay the fee when reserving the service.
- Disallowed Pets:Â None specifically mentioned, but we do not recommend flying with pregnant or sedated animals
As the flagship carrier for Argentina, you’ll definitely see AerolÃneas Argentinas if you’re planning to visit Buenos Aires. Heads up – your dog’s space in the cabin isn’t guaranteed until you pay the service fee, so we recommend reserving your space on this dog friendly airline in South America right away.
- Pets Permitted to Fly:Â Dogs and cats older than 12 weeks
- Max Weight:Â 20 lbs (9 kg), including carrier
- Max Carrier Size:Â 12 in wide x 17 in long x 9 in high (30 cm x 44 cm x 23 cm), soft-sided only
- Seat Restrictions:Â No specific seating restrictions are included in the pet in cabin policy, though they do note that Business class seating is available on certain aircraft
- Pets per Person/Flight:Â 1 per person, maximum per flight is not stated
- How to Book: After purchasing your ticket, request the pet in cabin service via their call center or WhatsApp. Reservations must be made at least 72 hours before departure.
- Fee Range: ~$17 for domestic flights and $150 to $295 for international flights, per segment (be careful of connections!). Pay the fee when reserving the service or at the airport on the day of travel.
- Disallowed Pets:Â Aggressive breeds and pets undergoing veterinary treatment
A significant regional carrier in Chile and Peru, you may see Sky Airline as an option if you’re planning a visit to Machu Picchu. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to fly on Sky to or from the United States, but you can always use this carrier once you’re already in South America. However, it’s worth noting that their maximum carrier height is smaller than most, and, while their fees are low, this is another airline that charges fees by segment, not route.
- Pets Permitted to Fly:Â Dogs and cats older than 12 weeks
- Max Weight:Â 22 lbs (10 kg), including carrier
- Max Carrier Size:Â 13 in wide x 16 in long x 8 in high (33 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm), soft-sided only
- Seat Restrictions:Â You will be placed in a window seat at no extra charge
- Pets per Person/Flight:Â 1 per person, 4 per flight
- How to Book: Add the pet in cabin service when purchasing your ticket or afterwards on Sky’s website or app. Reservations must be made at least 48 hours before departure.
- Fee Range: $49+ for domestic flights and $85+ for international flights, per segment (be careful of connections!). Pay the fee when booking the service.
- Disallowed Pets: Aggressive breeds and sedated pets
A low-cost carrier with an increasing network across Chile and Argentina, JetSMART is a great choice if you want to fly with your dog but still want to save a few bucks. Surprisingly for a budget airline, their pet in cabin max weight and max carrier size are not overly restrictive, and their fees are pretty low as well, making it a very solid dog friendly airline in South America. Make sure you’re flying direct though – JetSMART only allows pets to fly in cabin on nonstop routes.
- Pets Permitted to Fly:Â Dogs and cats older than 3 months
- Max Weight:Â 22 lbs (10 kg), including carrier
- Max Carrier Size:Â 14 in wide x 15 in long x 8.5 in high (35 cm x 38 cm x 22 cm), soft-sided carriers only
- Seat Restrictions:Â No bulkhead, first row, or exit row seating (this is standard)
- Pets per Person/Flight:Â 1 per person, 4 per flight
- How to Book: While purchasing your ticket or afterwards, request the service online or by calling their contact center. Reservations must be made at least 48 hours before departure.
- Fee Range: ~$15 to $46+ for domestic flights (within Chile, Argentina, Peru, or Colombia) and $80+ for international flights. You can pay the fee at booking, after booking, or at the airport on the day of travel. However, the fee increases with the passage of time.
- Disallowed Pets:Â Pregnant pets, sedated pets
Airlines in South America That Do Not Allow Pet in Cabin
Incredibly, we haven’t identified any major airlines servicing South America that do not allow your dog to fly with you in cabin in at least some circumstances. If you’re worried about whether or not South America is a pet friendly destination – don’t be!
FAQs for Flying Internationally With Your Dog in Cabin
Is It Safe to Fly With Your Dog in Cabin?
Yes, flying with your dog in cabin is generally considered safe. After all our travels, Cali has never shown any negative effects from flying – before, during, or after. However, certain breeds are not well-suited for flights, like snub-nosed breeds. It’s also not recommended if your pet is suffering from poor health. Always consult with your vet if you’re worried about your dog’s well-being before flying.
What Kind of Documentation Do You Need to Fly Internationally With Your Pet in Cabin?
This will vary depending on your originating and destination country, but typically includes at minimum:
- A health certificate issued by an authorized veterinarian,
- Rabies vaccination record,
- Proof of an ISO-compliant microchip, and
- Completed airline waiver.
Most countries also require proof of various other vaccinations, such as distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis. You may also be required to apply for an import and/or export permit and pay duties or import taxes at customs. In short, there are a lot of nuances to consider and boxes to check to make sure traveling internationally with your pet goes smoothly – check out our complete guide here.
Which Pet Carrier Do You Recommend for Flying With Your Dog?
We highly recommend the Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier. We use their medium size, which is the biggest size you can purchase that will still be accepted on most major airlines, including most of the dog friendly airlines in South America in this list. It measures 11 in x 17 in x 10.5 in (28cm x 43cm x 26.5cm) and is suitable for pets weighing up to 16lbs (7.3kg), 16 in (41cm) in length, and 9.5 in (24cm) in height. So far, it’s worked on every airline we’ve flown across the globe except for Vietnam Airlines.
In addition to its airline-approved size, this dog travel carrier has several other features we love, like dual-access zippers for easy loading and a side strap that allows you to secure the carrier to the handle of your carry-on. Cali loves it, and you will too – learn more about the features of this carrier in our post Dog Travel Essentials for Flights – Top Dog Travel Carrier and Gear.
What Else Should I Bring to Make My Dog's Flight Comfortable?
We recommend bringing the following items with you on any flight with your dog:
- Collapsible Travel Food and Water Bowls
- Apple AirTag and AirTag Carrying Case
- A Short, Sturdy Leash
- Dog Poop Bags and Poop Bag HolderÂ
- Small Dog Treats (for good behavior) and Large Dog Treats (to keep them busy on the flight)
- Bark Collar with Vibrate Mode
- A Calming Dog Toy or Dog Treats with Melatonin
Read more in our full guide to dog travel essentials for flights.
Where Can I Learn More About Flying With My Dog to Specific Countries?
Good news – if you’re interested in visiting any of the incredible destinations we’ve traveled to, we’ll be coming out with detailed guides of how to fly to each country in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!
Final Thoughts on Dog Friendly Airlines in South America
So which is the best airline in South America to fly with your dog? Nearly all of them! We’re so thrilled to see pet travel continue to grow and become more normalized, and South America seems to be leading the pack here. We hope this guide to dog friendly airlines in South America helps you to book your next flight with your fur baby. Here’s to an incredible adventure together!
Don’t forget to check out our other helpful guides for dog travel:
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