Korean Air: Pet Policy

What methods of transport does Korean Air provide for my pet?

  • Travel in the passenger cabin.
  • Checked as baggage in pressurized and temperature controlled area of your aircraft.

Does my pet qualify for travel in the passenger cabin?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel in the passenger cabin:

  • Only domesticated dogs, cats and birds are allowed.
  • Aggressive dogs and birds are not allowed.
  • Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel, under the seat for the entire flight.
  • The kennel is specifically made for animal carriage, and its total dimensions do not exceed 115 cm/45 ins and it does not weigh more than 5 kg/11 lbs with the animal inside.
  • Only one pet is allowed per passenger, however, 2 puppies up to 6 months, 2 kittens or a pair of birds may travel in one kennel.
  • Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).

Does my pet qualify for travel as checked baggage?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel as checked baggage:

  • Only domesticated animals such as dogs, cats and fish are allowed.
  • Aggressive dogs and birds are not allowed.
  • The kennel is specifically made for animal carriage, and its total dimensions do not exceed 246 cm/97 ins and it does not weigh more than 32 kg/70 lbs with the animal inside.
  • Only one pet is allowed per passenger, however, 2 puppies up to 6 months, 2 kittens or a pair of birds may travel in one kennel.
  • Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).

What are the fees associated with pet transport?

Contact Korean Air for more information.

What are the kennel requirements?

In addition to the size and weight maximums, the IATA and Korean Air require that kennels meet the following requirements:

  • Be leak-proof and escape-proof.
  • Be properly ventilated, but not allow any part of the animal from protruding outside of the container.
  • Provide enough room for the animal to stand and turn around.
  • Be made of metal, wood, or a hard plastic/composite.
  • Contain absorbent material or litter.
  • Have functional handles on the kennel's exterior to prevent tilting and any direct contact with the animals.
  • Be closed securely, but not locked.
  • Have labels with the words "Live Animal" in letters at least 1-inch tall on the crate's top and on at least one side.
  • Have upright arrow labels indicating kennel's correct position.

What health documentation is required?

While Korean Air does not require a health certificate for your animal, many Countries do require health documents. As it is the passenger's responsibility to be aware of all regulations, you should consult your veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture to ensure that your animal will comply with all requirements. For regulations and requirements in Korea contact the Incheon Animal Quarantine Office.

Are there any other restrictions?

Korean Air can refuse to transport an animal due to illness, aggressive behavior, poor kenneling, or extreme temperatures at origin, transfer, or destination airports.



Please contact the airline directly for information about traveling with a service animal.