For dog lovers who believe their companions belong by their side—not beneath the plane—ITA Airways has announced a groundbreaking new initiative. Beginning in the upcoming summer season, the Italian airline will introduce “Large Pet Friendly” domestic flights, allowing pets weighing up to 30 kg (66 pounds) to travel in the cabin alongside their owners.
This historic shift follows recent regulatory changes by ENAC, Italy’s civil aviation authority, and marks a significant evolution in how airlines accommodate modern pet families.
A New Era of Inclusive Travel
ITA Airways’ decision reflects a growing cultural reality: dogs are not simply animals—they are family members, travel companions, and, for many, emotional anchors. Until now, medium and large dogs were typically required to travel in the cargo hold, a stressful and often avoided option for devoted owners.
The airline first tested the concept in September 2025, successfully transporting two large dogs in the cabin on a demonstration flight from Milan Linate to Rome Fiumicino. The positive outcome helped pave the way for the official launch of this new service.
“Pets are part of the family,” said Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways. “We want every journey to start and end together, without separation.”
From Restriction to Recognition
ITA Airways has steadily expanded its pet-friendly policies in recent years. In June 2024, the airline increased the cabin weight limit for pets from 8 kg to 10 kg, acknowledging the needs of travelers with slightly larger companions.
Now, the leap to accommodating pets up to 30 kg represents a transformative moment—not just for ITA Airways, but for the broader airline industry.
This initiative recognizes what pet lovers have long known: travel is richer, calmer, and more meaningful when shared.
What This Means for Dog Lovers
The new “Large Pet Friendly” service will initially be available on domestic Italian routes, with bookings expected to open ahead of the summer travel season. While operational details are still being finalized, the concept itself signals a powerful shift toward more compassionate and inclusive travel policies.
For dog owners who have avoided flying due to cargo concerns, this opens new possibilities—from Italian countryside escapes to coastal holidays—with their companions safely beside them.
A Sign of What’s to Come
As dogs increasingly appear in hotels, restaurants, fashion campaigns, and media, airlines are beginning to follow suit. ITA Airways’ decision could influence other carriers worldwide to rethink outdated pet travel restrictions.
The future of travel is evolving—and it’s becoming far more dog-friendly.
For the global dog community, this is more than a policy change. It’s recognition.
Because the best journeys are the ones taken together!