UAE carrier allows pets onboard

Passengers flying with Etihad Airways can now travel with their pets in the cabin as long as they pay an additional fee and meet certain criteria.

It'll cost economy travellers $150 (AED550) per pet for a flight six hours or less, and $250 (AED 920) for flights more than six hours.

The policy, which allows trained service animals, and pet cats and dogs on board, came into effect on September 30.

Travellers can also purchase an extra seat for their pets on business or economy cabins as long as their travel bag or kennel fits the specifications mentioned by the airline.  

According to the guideline, the pets "must be at least 16 weeks old and weigh no more than 8kg including their carrier" and travellers must be aged 18 and above to travel with them.  

Veterinary and official documents are a must, with the passenger ensuring "all entry and exit regulations for the country they are flying to and from" are met.

They'll need to book their pets online 72 hours before the flight and check-in 3 hours before flying out.