by InTrieste
In a welcome move for pet owners across Italy, ITA Airways has announced an increase in the weight limit for pets allowed in the cabin on domestic flights. Effective June 20, the airline now permits dogs weighing up to 10 kilograms (including a 2 kg carrier) to accompany their owners on board. This is an increase from the previous limit of 8 kg.
This change, approved by Italy’s civil aviation authority ENAC, comes as a temporary derogation from European Union regulations, which cap the in-cabin pet weight at 8 kg. According to the ITA Airways website, pets must be housed in “appropriate soft-sided, semi-rigid or rigid carriers” that are ventilated and secure to ensure the pet cannot escape during the flight.
The specified dimensions for these carriers are 24 cm in height, 40 cm in length, and 30 cm in width. The carrier must be waterproof and sturdy, providing sufficient space for the animal to sit, turn, and lie down comfortably. An additional charge of €73 applies for this new service. However, for international flights, the maximum weight for pets remains at 8 kg.
Notably, ITA Airways allows up to five animals of the same species to travel together in a single carrier, provided their combined weight does not exceed the 10 kg limit.
The move has garnered attention and could set a precedent for other airlines. ENAC has expressed its willingness to consider similar requests from other carriers, according to a report in Il Sole 24 Ore.
In a related development, Trenitalia, Italy’s state-owned railway company, announced last month that dogs can travel with their owners free of charge on Frecce and Intercity long-distance trains for the summer. This initiative, valid until September 15, aims to curb the abandonment of pets during the holiday season.
Both initiatives reflect a broader effort to accommodate pet owners and ensure that animals can travel comfortably and safely, aligning with Italy’s commitment to animal welfare and the convenience of its citizens.
