Virgin Australia Expands Pet-Friendly Flights to Meet Surging Demand

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Virgin Australia is expanding its popular pets-in-cabin service, with demand from travellers far exceeding expectations. The airline is also preparing to welcome its 1,000th pet on board alongside its owner.

The service will soon include new routes via Adelaide and Launceston, giving more pet owners the option to fly with their animals in the cabin.

Virgin’s Chief Marketing and Customer Operations Officer Libby Minogue said pets are part of the family for many Australians, and the program removes a major hurdle to travel. The airline says the service will continue to be reviewed to ensure safety and reliability for all passengers.

Veterinarian Dr Katrina Warren welcomed the move, calling it a positive step for pet-owning families.

The program was first announced in March 2024 and officially launched in September, with initial flights operating between Melbourne and the Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast.

For now, only small cats and dogs are eligible. Pets must travel in an approved soft carrier that fits under the seat, with the combined weight capped at eight kilograms. A maximum of four pets is allowed per eligible flight. Animals must be vaccinated, meet age and health requirements, and remain in their carrier for the entire journey.

The introductory fare is $149 per pet, per flight. Sale dates for the new routes will be confirmed once final airport approvals are in place.

While public reaction has been mixed, Yahoo News reports most Australians support the idea. Virgin has also assured passengers that aircraft air-filtration systems remove 99 per cent of airborne particles, including pet dander, and allergy-affected travellers can change seats at no extra cost.

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