Virgin Atlantic ESA Policy
Flying with Your Pet

Virgin Atlantic has updated its animal policies to align with U.S. and U.K. aviation regulations. Under the current Virgin Atlantic ESA policy, emotional support animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized as service animals. This change follows global airline standards that extend travel protections only to trained service dogs and psychiatric service dogs (PSDs) that perform specific tasks related to a passenger’s disability.

ESAs are now classified as pets and must comply with Virgin Atlantic’s pet policy, which includes health documentation, carrier requirements, and destination-specific rules. While ESAs can no longer travel free of charge in-cabin, eligible service animals continue to receive protection under international accessibility laws.

Pets Allowed in Cabin

Virgin Atlantic allows a limited number of small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin on select flights, depending on destinations and aircraft type. Pets must fit comfortably inside a secure carrier that can be safely stowed under the passenger’s seat during the flight.

Only one pet is permitted per passenger, and it must remain inside the carrier for the entire journey. The carrier counts as your hand baggage allowance.

Requirements

To qualify for in-cabin pet travel:

• Pets must meet all health and vaccination requirements for the destination country.
• The animal must fit comfortably in its carrier without protruding through the sides.
• Pets must remain under the seat in front of the passenger at all times.
• The pet must be at least 10 weeks old and travel with valid documentation issued by a certified veterinarian.

Restrictions

• Pets cannot be seated in exit rows, bulkhead seats, or any area without under-seat storage.
• Certain aircraft and destinations may not allow in-cabin pet travel due to temperature or import restrictions.
• Large animals must travel via Virgin Atlantic’s cargo program instead of in-cabin.
• Breed restrictions may apply for safety reasons, particularly for brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds.

Fees

In-cabin pet travel fees vary depending on the flight route and destination. Passengers should check directly with Virgin Atlantic for updated pricing at the time of booking.

Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) standards, Virgin Atlantic permits only trained service dogs to fly in the cabin free of charge. This includes psychiatric service dogs (PSDs) that perform specific tasks to assist passengers with mental or physical disabilities.

Key Rules for Service Dogs

• Travel is free of charge, with no weight limit, provided the dog fits safely at the passenger’s feet.
• The service dog must be trained to perform a specific task linked to the passenger’s disability.
• Only dogs are accepted as service animals; other animals such as cats or birds are not permitted in this category.
• Passengers must submit required documentation at least 48 hours before the flight to verify the dog’s training, health, and suitability.
• Service dogs must remain well-behaved and under control at all times during the flight.

Required Documentation

Passengers flying with a service dog must provide:

• The Virgin Atlantic Service Animal Form (available through customer service).
• Proof of training from a recognized organization or trainer.
• Valid health and vaccination certificates.
• For U.S. routes, completion of the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form is also required.

Before traveling, review Virgin Atlantic’s ESA and pet travel policies to ensure your animal meets all eligibility requirements.

1. Book early – Pet and service animal space is limited, so reserve during booking.
2. Prepare documentation – Submit all required forms and veterinary health records at least 48 hours before travel.
3. Prepare your animal – Familiarize your dog or pet with the travel carrier or harness before the trip.
4. Check in early – Visit the Virgin Atlantic counter for service animal verification or pet check-in.
5. During the flight – Service dogs remain at the passenger’s feet; pets must stay in their carriers under the seat in front of you.

Even though Virgin Atlantic no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals, passengers still have options:

• Qualify as a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD): If your ESA can be trained to perform specific tasks for a mental health condition, it may qualify as a service dog under accessibility laws.
• Travel under the pet policy: Your ESA can still travel in the cabin if it meets carrier and health requirements, though standard pet fees apply.
• Use ESA letters for housing: While ESA letters no longer grant in-flight privileges, they remain valid under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) for housing accommodation requests where pets are restricted.