Pet Airways Launching in July

Anyone who’s ever traveled via airline with a pet knows what a pain it can be. There are health guidelines, crate guidelines, and some carriers even require larger pets to be sedated.

The biggest drawback is that if your pet isn’t small enough to ride in the cabin with you (under the seat, of course) then they have to fly in the cargo area with the luggage. Some carriers have a limit on how many pets are allowed in the cabin on one flight, so even if your pet is small enough they might end up in cargo anyway.

One company didn’t like this idea very much and has created Pet Airways, an airline that specifically caters to pets — in fact, human passengers aren’t even allowed on the aircraft!

The “pawsengers” get the best care available during their flight: They’re checked on every 15 minutes, get fresh water and food, and get regular potty breaks. All you need to worry about is dropping your pet off in the first place and then picking them up at the Pet Lounge at your destination. You can even monitor their progress along the way — from drop-off to pick-up — for peace of mind.

They don’t have many flight cities yet, and the first ones opening in July will be New York (NJ,CT & Philadelphia), Washington DC/Baltimore Area, Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles. Be sure to let them know what cities you’d like to see them expand into!

Introductory fares are currently $149 and reservations can be made online.

What do you think? Would you use it? I think I’d be a little worried about my pet flying without me, but knowing that they’re comfortable and being taken care of would ease that, I think.

[image: flickr]