One of the hardest decisions people have to make when flying, is to include their beloved animal in pet air travel. Many airlines, as well as federal regulations, do not feel the same about pets as their owners do, and will insist that pet air travel be done as baggage in the compartment along with all other luggage.
The Federal Aviation Administration allows each airline to establish their own rules and regulations regarding pet air travel and while most will allow pets in the luggage and cargo areas of the aircraft, a few will allow them in the passenger compartments, most treated like carry-on luggage. This means their carriers have to meet the same requirements as carry-on luggage.
Federal rules, however do govern the access of service animals on an aircraft. All US airlines are required to permit service animals into the passenger cabin when accompanying a disabled person. Additionally, it is best to reserve your flight well in advance if pet air travel is needed, as there are usually restrictions on the number of pets in the cabin on one flight. Check with your airline ahead of time.
Pet Advocates Usually Against Flying
Most humane societies advice against pet air travel, unless it is absolutely necessary as several factors of flying can be harmful to small animals. For instances, the feeling humans get in their ears during altitude and air pressure changes, cannot be as easily adjust by an animal as it can by a person. Also, pet owners may not appreciate their pets being in cargo holds on an aircraft, which are known to be considerably colder than the remainder of the craft.
In June 2005, the Safe Air Travel for Animals Act went into effect requiring airlines to notify the Department of Transportation Aviation Consumer Protection Division of any incident involving pet air travel. While this makes the individual airlines more responsible for the safety of pets being transported by air, it does not necessarily make it any safer.
Many airlines have specific requirements for pet air travel and can include the size of the pet, the carrier size and weight and often charge a separate fee. For example, one airline requires the pet be able to fit into a carrier that fits under the seat and weighs no more than 15 pounds. It charges $50 for a one-way trip, while a different carrier charge $75.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Taking the Proper Precautions with International Air Travel
Even if you are considered a frequent flier within the confines of the United States, international air travel will bring with it a host of new considerations and concerns. There are a number of factors to be aware of when embarking on international air travel. The main issue to prepare for is the destination that you will be flying to, since it is highly possible that you will not be entirely familiar with the particular location that you are visiting. If you prepare well for this particular element of your international air travel, you will be able to take off on your trip with the peace of mind in knowing that you are ready and safe for your journey.
Documentation for International Air Travel
With the rise in security concerns today, there have been some changes to the documentation that is required to leave and return to the United States. If you plan to travel outside of this country, it is important to allow yourself plenty of time to apply for and receive a passport. The length of time that is needed to process a passport request has been extended, due to the increased demand and need for this type of documentation. It is a good idea to try to give yourself a good two months between the time that you apply for your documents and the date that you plan to depart on your international air travel. Once you have your passport, make two copies of the identification page. You can leave one at home with friends or relatives, and keep the second one with you as you travel in a separate location from your passport.
Preparing for your International Air Travel
It is also important to prepare for your international air travel by familiarizing yourself with the laws and customs of the area that you will be visiting. Keep in mind that while you are out of this country, you will be subject to the laws of the country that you are traveling in. Studying the customs of your destination will also ensure that you do not dress or act conspicuously while on vacation, which can protect you from being a target of a crime in another country. Before embarking on your international air travel, you can also get a copy of the Consular Information Sheet for the country that you will be visiting. This will give you plenty of information that will help to make your visit abroad a successful and enjoyable one.
Documentation for International Air Travel
With the rise in security concerns today, there have been some changes to the documentation that is required to leave and return to the United States. If you plan to travel outside of this country, it is important to allow yourself plenty of time to apply for and receive a passport. The length of time that is needed to process a passport request has been extended, due to the increased demand and need for this type of documentation. It is a good idea to try to give yourself a good two months between the time that you apply for your documents and the date that you plan to depart on your international air travel. Once you have your passport, make two copies of the identification page. You can leave one at home with friends or relatives, and keep the second one with you as you travel in a separate location from your passport.
Preparing for your International Air Travel
It is also important to prepare for your international air travel by familiarizing yourself with the laws and customs of the area that you will be visiting. Keep in mind that while you are out of this country, you will be subject to the laws of the country that you are traveling in. Studying the customs of your destination will also ensure that you do not dress or act conspicuously while on vacation, which can protect you from being a target of a crime in another country. Before embarking on your international air travel, you can also get a copy of the Consular Information Sheet for the country that you will be visiting. This will give you plenty of information that will help to make your visit abroad a successful and enjoyable one.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)