Air Malta will be introducing a Pet Travel Policy as from 1 January, as a result of which passengers who wish to travel with their cat or small dog in the passenger cabin will now be able to do so, subject to certain conditions and procedures that need to be observed.

A spokesman for the airline said: “Air Malta successfully introduced the carriage of guide-dogs in the passenger cabin more than two years ago. We are now building on this policy to meet the needs of many pet owners who wish to include their pets in their travel plans. Our customers and employees have submitted suggestions on the subject and after a thorough review we are launching this policy as from next year”.

This facility will be available on all Air Malta’s network, with the exception of flights to and from the UK. Pets should be carried in an appropriate pet carrier measuring not more than 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. The carrier must have a leak-proof base and meet other requirements related to ventilation, strength, sanitation and design, for the safe handling of the pet. The maximum allowed weight of the pet, including the carrier, is 10kgs. A fee of €70 each way is applicable per container. Pets should be registered in advance with the airline’s Call Centre. Only three pets, including guide dogs, will be accepted on the same flight. Therefore, pets that are not registered may be refused boarding at the airport. Two pets of the same species may travel in the same pet carrier, as long as all conditions related to their size, weight, safety and well-being are met. While inside the cabin, the pet container must be placed underneath the seat in front of the passenger without blocking any passenger’s path.

The carrier must remain properly stowed for the duration of the flight.

Pets must be at least eight weeks old and must have been weaned at least five days prior to the day of travel. It is important that passengers travelling with pets are aware of the pet importation rules of the destination country. A valid pet passport and other necessary documents are required for the pet to be allowed entry. Passengers travelling with pets will be required to provide a pet health certificate confirming that the animal is in good health, harmless and inoffensive with others. A licensed veterinarian should examine the pet no more than three days before the intended travel date.

Larger pets and other animals can still be carried in the aircraft hold.

More information about the conditions of carriage for different types of animals can be viewed at www.airmalta.com/pets?l=1