You’re going to fly out with your dog in cargo hold in a near futur? You are looking for a travel cage IATA approved which is going to be accepted by your airline? This article is going to help picking wisely and plan efficiently your trip with your poor. We will be providing you all the details you need to make sure your cage will be accepted.
What is an IATA Approved Transport Cage?
The regulations regarding the transport of live animals issued by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) serve as a reference for most airlines regarding cages to be used to fly animals in the cargo hold. Transporters often require that your pet be placed in the latter, which is why it is important to check that your cage complies with the rules it sets.
MOST AIRLINES ONLY ACCEPT CAGES THAT COMPLY WITH IATA REGULATIONS
- The cage must not have wheels
- It must have a solid roof
- The screws and nuts that hold the lower and upper parts of the cage must be properly installed and tightened – because yes, the cage must consist of two sections, made of solid and rigid plastic
- The cage must also include bowls firmly attached to its lower wall containing food and water
- It must be clean, but also and above all waterproof and covered with materials capable of absorbing liquid materials
- It must be well ventilated, with openings in all 4 sides of the cage
- The cage must also be properly closed, using a lock that cannot be opened from the inside
- Finally, it must bear a label distinguishing the top from the bottom and another indicating that the cage contains a live animal
What Size is an IATA Dog Cage?
Brands that offer IATA-compliant cages offer different size options. From IATA XL cages to size 8 cages, there are many choices. The one you choose should allow your dog to stand, lie down and turn around without too much difficulty. It is therefore on this basis that you must make your selection.
EACH airline MAY IMPOSE ITS OWN RULES FOR THE SIZE AND WEIGHT OF THE CAGES IT ACCEPTS.
Be careful, however, some companies do not accept dog transport cages (even IATA) that exceed specific dimensions. For Air Canada, it is, for example, 292 cm. His weight (with your dog in his bosom) is also subject to airline policies. Be sure to check before booking your flights. Feel free to consult our various articles about airlines that accept dogs.
Which Airlines Require IATA Dog Cages?
Most major airlines use the regulations formulated by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as the cornerstone of their policy for bunker cages. These include Air France and Air Canada, for example. By buying a crate of this type, you maximize your chances of being able to take your dog with a large number of air carriers.
IATA CAGES ARE THE STRANDARD IN AIR TRANSPORT
As mentioned earlier, however, pay attention to the specific requirements of each company, in relation to the size of the cage and its weight. They may vary. Also keep an eye on their policy towards dogs with snub-nosed or fighting noses.
What Brand of IATA Dog Cage Should You Pick?
Most brands specializing in dog cages ensure that they comply with the rules set out by IATA. But be careful, we encourage you to check for yourself if the one you are about to buy complies with them well before making your purchase. Because just because the brand or retailer offers an “IATA cage” does not necessarily mean that it is.
CHECK THE SPECIFICATIONS OF A CAGE TO ENSURE THAT IT COMPLIES WITH IATA REGULATIONS.
Therefore, analyse the various points listed by the International Air Transport Association regulations and compare them with the specifications of the cage of your choice. You will see if everything is in conformity. During our research, we noticed that a brand like Gulliver is often cited as a reference in IATA cages.
Can You Buy a Used IATA cage?
Why not?! If the cage meets the specific specifications of the regulations issued by IATA, it may be appropriate. As with the purchase of a new product, make sure it is in compliance. Also make sure that the transaction is in good condition:
- That it closes well
- That it is firmly mounted (if it is sold disassembled, do the exercise before buying it)
- That its interior is clean and remains impermeable to liquids
- If possible, try to get your dog inside the crate before buying it so that there is no doubt about its size.
