KLM Pet Policy

KLM allows a limited number of pets onboard; therefore it’s essential that the passenger planning to fly with a pet notifies the airline about it. It is of prime importance to be aware of the airlines’ specific pet policies to understand the requirements and prepare for a safe and comfortable journey for your pet(s).

Pet Criteria

KLM only accepts cats and dogs as pet passengers.

In-cabin

Small pets are welcome only in the cabin of the Economy Class of most KLM flights and in the Business Class of KLM flights flying within the European route. During the entire flight’s duration, the pet must be kept inside the kennel which should be large enough to allow him/her the convenience of standing, sitting and turning around. For that purpose, the kennel must be sized within 18 x 11 x 9 inches. Also, the combined weight of the kennel and the pet cannot exceed 18 lbs.

Checked Baggage

Pets are allowed to travel in the ventilated area of the hold of most KLM flights. When traveling in the hold, a pet must be carried in a kennel that is intact with a fiberglass or solid plastic shell. The kennel should also have a centralized locking system and must be fastened with bolts and nuts to avoid any accidental opening during the duration of the flight. The kennel should have absorbent bedding and must be big enough to accommodate the pet comfortably. The kennel cannot be more than 115 inches in dimensions. Also, the combined weight of the pet and the kennel should not exceed 165 lbs. Two animals of same breed and size, not weighing more than 30 lbs can travel together in one kennel. This stands applicable for up to 3 animals as well if they are not more than 6 months old in age, each weighing a maximum of 30 lbs and belong to the same litter.

In-cargo

Passengers willing to travel with more than 3 pets are required to ship their pets as cargo via Air France-KLM Cargo. In this case, the passenger and pet will not be flying on the same flight. To ensure a safe and smooth journey for the pet, a kennel that is comfortably sized within 115 inches is required. The combined weight of the kennel and pet cannot exceed 165 lbs.

Emotional Support/Service Animal

KLM only accepts dogs as emotional support and service animal. However, an emotional support dog is only allowed on direct flights to and from the United States of America and must be no less than 4 months old. To fly with an emotional support and service animal, passenger must fill the required forms and provide the necessary documents:

• Application Form Guide Dog
• Application Form Emotional Support Dog
• A signed declaration from the licensed health practitioner, verifying the dependency

For more information kindly visit:  https://www.klm.com/travel/us_en/prepare_for_travel/travel_planning/pets/index.htm#p4