Air China Pet Policy 2026: Cabin Rules, Beijing Hub, and China Pet Import Requirements
Air China maintains a strict policy regarding animal transport: no household pets are permitted in the aircraft cabin. The airline exclusively transports domesticated cats and dogs as checked baggage in the cargo hold, provided the aircraft’s cargo compartment is equipped with oxygen and temperature controls.
Navigating the entry requirements for China is a multi-step process that demands precision. Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, you can simplify this preparation by utilizing the free checklist tool at Pet Holiday Club, which covers international documentation requirements for more than 190 countries. For a comprehensive overview of how to manage your pet’s journey to any destination, explore the Pet Travel Country Guides | Import & Export Rules by Country | Pet Holiday Club
Air China Pet Policy: At a Glance
In-Cabin Household Pets: Not permitted.
Cargo/Checked Baggage: Only cats and dogs are accepted.
Weight Limit: Maximum 32 kg (70 lbs) total, including the container, food, and water.
Breed Restrictions: Aggressive and brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds are strictly prohibited.
China Entry: Rigorous requirements apply, including ISO-compliant microchipping, rabies vaccination, and potential quarantine.
Booking: Application must be made to Air China at least 48 hours before departure.
In-Cabin Pet Rules
Air China does not allow cats or dogs to travel in the passenger cabin. This rule applies to all international and domestic flights. The only exception is for trained service dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities, which must be approved by the airline in advance and are typically required to be leashed and muzzled during the flight.
Cargo and Hold Rules
Air China transports pets as checked baggage in the hold on aircraft equipped with oxygen-supplied cargo compartments. Because not all aircraft models (such as certain A319, A320, 737-8MAX, and ARJ21-700 planes) support pet transport, you must confirm the aircraft’s capability with the airline before booking.
Requirements for Hold Travel
Container Specifications: You must use an IATA-compliant, rigid, escape-proof crate. The carrier must allow your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
Ventilation: Containers must have ventilation holes on the upper third of three sides (excluding the door) to ensure adequate airflow.
Locking: Doors must be made of welded metal and feature a secure locking mechanism.
Limit: Only one pet is permitted per passenger, and the total weight (pet plus carrier plus supplies) must not exceed 32 kg.
International Airlines That Allow Large Dogs in Cabin 2026
Breed Restrictions
Air China prohibits the transport of any dog or cat breed considered aggressive or those prone to respiratory issues. Because brachycephalic animals struggle to breathe in high-stress or variable-temperature environments, they are barred from the cargo hold.
Prohibited breeds include, but are not limited to:
Snub-nosed dogs: Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Boxers, and Spaniels.
Snub-nosed cats: Persians, Himalayans, British Shorthairs, and Exotic Shorthairs.
Aggressive breeds: Various Mastiff types and other breeds classified as dangerous by the airline.
International Route and China Entry Requirements
China has strict import regulations governed by the General Administration of Customs (GACC). Since May 2019, the entry process has become more standardized, though it remains highly detailed.
Core Entry Requirements
Microchip: Your pet must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip.
Vaccinations: Evidence of at least two rabies vaccinations is often required. The most recent vaccination must be current at the time of arrival.
Titer Test: For non-designated countries (which include most of the world), a passing rabies antibody titer test (≥0.5 IU/mL) from a GACC-approved laboratory is mandatory to avoid a 30-day quarantine.
Health Certificate: A health certificate issued by an official veterinarian in the country of origin, compliant with Chinese requirements, must accompany your pet.
Designated Ports: If your pet does not meet all documentation requirements, it must enter China through a designated port (such as Beijing Capital Airport) and will be subject to a 30-day quarantine.
How to Book a Pet on Air China
Check Aircraft Suitability: Contact Air China to confirm your flight’s aircraft model can accommodate pets in the cargo hold.
Submit Application: Apply for the "Carriage of Small Animals" at least 48 hours before your flight.
Secure Space: Do not book your own ticket until the airline has confirmed your pet’s transport.
Prepare Paperwork: Ensure all health certificates, titer test reports, and vaccination records are ready.
Check-in: Arrive at the airport at least 120 minutes before departure to complete the necessary liability declarations and inspections.
Tips for Flying With Your Pet
Confirm Cargo Oxygen: Always double-check that your specific flight’s cargo hold is oxygen-supplied.
Crate Comfort: Place an absorbent pad on the floor of the crate and attach a water container that can be refilled from the outside.
Verify Documentation: Because GACC rules are subject to change, check the official customs website for your specific departure country and destination port before traveling.
Comparison: Air China vs. Competitors
Feature | Air China | Global Carriers |
In-Cabin Pets | No | Yes (Limited) |
Cargo/Hold | Yes | Yes |
Weight Limit | 32 kg (70 lbs) | Varies |
China Network | Extensive | Limited |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bring my cat into the Air China cabin?
No, Air China does not permit any household pets, including cats, to travel in the cabin on any flight.
Q: What is the weight limit for a pet traveling in the hold?
The total weight of your pet, their carrier, and any food or water must not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs).
Best Airlines for Large Dogs 2026
Q: Can brachycephalic breeds travel as checked baggage?
No, brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds are prohibited from traveling in the cargo hold due to the risk of respiratory distress.
Q: How do I avoid the 30-day quarantine in China?
To avoid quarantine, your pet must be microchipped, have a valid rabies vaccination, and provide a passing rabies antibody titer test result from a GACC-approved laboratory.
Q: Is an import permit required to enter China?
While an import permit is not always explicitly required for single pets, you must notify Customs in advance and provide a valid veterinary health certificate upon arrival.
Q: What happens if my flight's aircraft does not support pets?
If your aircraft is not equipped with an oxygen-supplied cargo hold, Air China will not be able to transport your pet, so verifying the aircraft type before booking is essential.
Before flying with your pet on Air China, make sure you have the right documentation for your destination. Pet Holiday Club covers 190+ countries with government-sourced, vet-verified pet travel checklists at petholidayclub.com — so you arrive prepared, not refused.
