The Ultimate Guide to Domestic Flight Procedures for Dogs and Cats

ImmunityQ&AMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

We’ve put together a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know about bringing your pet on domestic flights in Korea, including the boarding process, cage size requirements, airline-specific fees, and how to make advance reservations.

Domestic Pet Travel at a Glance

A pet owner walking through the airport terminal with their puppy in a carrier

Domestic flights allow pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, provided they meet the airline’s specific requirements for carrier size and weight. The most critical step is making an advance reservation. Since airlines limit the number of pets allowed per flight, you must call their customer service center to register your pet immediately after booking your ticket. Walk-in registrations at the airport on the day of travel are rarely accepted.

Why Do Airline Regulations Differ?

Domestic flights do not require quarantine, so a rabies vaccination certificate is not legally mandatory. However, each airline sets its own rules regarding carrier dimensions, weight limits, the number of pets allowed, and fees in its transportation terms and conditions. For example, one airline may allow a 7 kg dog in the cabin, while another may only accept it as checked baggage. Therefore, the first step is to review the pet transportation policy of the airline you plan to use before booking your flight.

Comparison of Pet Regulations for Major Domestic Airlines

Item	Korean Air	Asiana Airlines	Jeju Air
In-cabin combined weight (including carrier)	7kg or less	7kg or less	7kg or less
Checked-baggage eligible weight	45kg or less	32kg or less	Not allowed as checked baggage
Max sum of in-cabin carrier dimensions	Width+Length+Height 115cm	Width+Length+Height 115cm	Width+Length+Height 100cm
Pets per flight	6 in cabin	5 in cabin	4 in cabin
One-way fare (domestic)	Around KRW 20,000s	Around KRW 20,000s	KRW 20,000s–30,000s

Based on the 2024 published terms and conditions. Please double-check the latest regulations on the airline's website before departure.

5-Step Procedure from Reservation to Boarding

- Step 1: Book the flight tickets. First, book the owner's flight tickets. - Step 2: Apply for pet accompaniment. Register by calling the airline's customer service center (some airlines allow online applications). - Step 3: Prepare the cage and documents. Bring a regulation cage, absorbent pads, a water bowl, and vaccination certificates. - Step 4: Check in at the airport counter. Arrive 1 to 2 hours before departure, and have the cage inspected and pay the fees at the counter. - Step 5: Security check and boarding. Temporarily take the pet out of the cage, hold it, and pass through the security gate.

The scene of weighing the cage at the airport counter.

Cases Where Boarding May Be Refused

Airlines may refuse to accept pets if their cages are too narrow for the animal to hold its head up, have weak locks that allow the door to open easily, or lack absorbent pads on the floor. Additionally, brachycephalic breeds such as Shih Tzus, Pekingese, Pugs, and Bulldogs are often restricted from being transported as checked baggage. Due to their anatomical features—narrow nostrils (nares stenosis) and elongated soft palates—these breeds are prone to partial or intermittent airway obstruction and are particularly vulnerable to heat stress in warm environments, which can make breathing more difficult. Pregnant animals and those under eight weeks of age may also be refused according to airline policies, so please be sure to confirm all requirements with the airline before your departure.

How to Avoid Panic at the Airport

Placing a familiar blanket and toys in the carrier the night before departure helps reduce your pet’s stress during the flight. Withhold food 2–3 hours before departure to prevent motion sickness, but continue providing water as usual. After arriving at the airport, allow your pet to relieve itself one last time in a pet lounge or a quiet area near a restroom, then place it in the carrier. At security screening, you will carry your pet through, so it is safer to have the leash and harness already fitted.

A calm cat resting under a blanket inside its carrier

In-Cabin vs. Checked Baggage: Which Should You Choose?

If your pet’s weight and carrier size meet the airline’s in-cabin requirements, traveling in the cabin is always the safest option. The carrier is placed under the seat in front of you, allowing your pet to continuously smell your scent and feel more secure. Pets over 7 kg must travel in the cargo hold. Although the cargo hold is temperature- and pressure-controlled similarly to the passenger cabin, it is a dark, confined space where pets must travel alone, which can cause significant stress. Whenever possible, help your pet gradually get used to travel by starting with short trips.

Signs After the Flight That Require a Vet Visit

If your pet continues to pant with its mouth open long after settling down, it may indicate more than just stress—such as heat stress or airway obstruction. Veterinary textbooks consider the inability to self-regulate panting even after stimulation as a sign of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Additionally, if you notice purple or pale gums, vomiting in the cage, or lethargy, these are warning signs that require immediate veterinary attention. If your pet refuses food for over 24 hours or experiences persistent diarrhea or bloody stools, a vet visit is necessary. Saving the location of a nearby 24-hour animal hospital can be very helpful in emergencies.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a rabies vaccination certificate really required for domestic flights?

While not legally mandated, some airlines may require it. We recommend bringing a vaccination certificate issued within the past year.

Can I take my bird out of the cage and hold it while flying?

No, that’s not allowed. Your pet must remain inside the carrier throughout takeoff, landing, and the entire flight. If the latch is opened, it must be securely closed again under the guidance of the flight attendants.

Is the procedure for cats the same as for dogs?

Yes, it’s the same. However, since cats are more sensitive to unfamiliar environments, it’s best to let them fully acclimate to their usual carrier as a safe space before traveling.

Is it okay to put two animals in the same cage?

If the combined weight of the animals is within the specified limit, you can place up to two animals of the same species and owned by the same person in one cage. Since each airline has different guidelines, it is necessary to check in advance.

Is it safe to give my pet a sedative?

Giving your pet sedatives without a veterinarian’s prescription can be dangerous. Sedatives may cause unexpected side effects, so always consult your primary vet before deciding to use them. Before considering medication, help your pet become fully accustomed to their cage and build positive associations—this can more reliably reduce stress.

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References

[1] 국토교통부, 항공운송사업자 운송약관 표준안 — 동물 운송 조항

[2] 대한항공·아시아나항공·제주항공 반려동물 운송 약관 (2024년 기준)

[3] Canine and Feline Respiratory Medicine, 3rd Edition (Lynelle R. Johnson, 2025) — 단두종 호흡기 위험 챕터