LATAM Airlines Pet Policy 2026: In-Cabin Rules, South America Routes, and ESA Policy
LATAM Airlines maintains one of the most flexible pet travel networks in the Southern Hemisphere, serving as a primary connector for travelers navigating the complex regulatory landscapes of South America. Unlike many global carriers that have eliminated support animal access entirely, LATAM remains one of the few airlines that still permits Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in the cabin on specific routes, provided strict documentation and advance notification requirements are met.
Understanding the specific entry requirements for each South American nation is critical, as documentation varies significantly between countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. You can simplify this complex preparation process by utilizing the 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
LATAM Airlines Pet Policy: At a Glance
In-Cabin Household Pets: Permitted on most flights.
Weight Limit: Maximum 7 kg (15 lbs) total, including the carrier.
Hold/Cargo Travel: Available for larger animals or those exceeding cabin limits.
ESA Policy: Permitted in-cabin on specific routes (e.g., Colombia, Argentina, Mexico) with verified documentation.
Breed Restrictions: Strict limitations on brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds in the cargo hold.
Regional Focus: Extensive coverage throughout Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Argentina.
In-Cabin Pet Rules
LATAM permits small dogs and cats to travel in the aircraft cabin on most domestic and international flights, provided they remain inside their carrier throughout the flight.
Specifications and Fees
Weight: The combined weight of your pet and their carrier must not exceed 7 kg (15 lbs).
Carrier Dimensions: Your carrier must be flexible and fit under the seat in front of you. Maximum dimensions are generally 36 cm x 33 cm x 23 cm, though this can vary by aircraft type.
Booking: You must reserve your pet’s spot in the cabin at least 48 hours before departure. Capacity is capped at a specific number of pets per flight, so book your pet’s space immediately after finalizing your own ticket.
Fees: Fees vary by route and currency; confirm the current pricing during your flight booking or via the "Manage Your Booking" section on the LATAM website.
ESA Policy (Emotional Support Animals)
LATAM distinguishes itself by maintaining an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) policy on specific routes, notably those involving countries like Colombia, Argentina, and Mexico. This is not an open policy for all pets; it is strictly reserved for animals trained to provide support.
Requirements for ESA Travel
Documentation: You must provide a letter from a licensed mental health professional, dated within the last 12 months, certifying your need for an ESA.
Advance Notice: You must submit all medical documentation through LATAM’s customer support channels at least 48 hours before your flight for verification.
Behavior: The animal must be clean, leashed or harnessed, and under total control at all times. LATAM reserves the right to deny cabin access if the animal displays disruptive behavior.
Cargo and Hold Rules
For animals that exceed the cabin weight limit, LATAM offers transport in the cargo hold. This is a temperature-controlled environment designed to ensure pet safety during flight.
Process
Booking: Larger pets must be booked through the LATAM Cargo department or a specialized pet relocation agent. This is a distinct service from your passenger reservation.
Fees: Charges are based on the animal's weight, the size of the container, and the distance of the flight.
Crate Requirements: You must provide a rigid, IATA-compliant container that is escape-proof, leak-proof, and ventilated on at least three sides.
Breed Restrictions
LATAM enforces strict policies regarding brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds due to their documented susceptibility to respiratory distress and heat stroke during flight.
Brachycephalic Restrictions: Breeds such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Persian cats are often prohibited from traveling in the cargo hold.
Safety Limits: Always verify current seasonal embargoes. LATAM may refuse transport for high-risk breeds during peak summer months or on routes where extreme temperatures are expected.
Aggressive Breeds: While not inherently banned, certain breeds may be subject to additional scrutiny or specific crate requirements to ensure the safety of ground and flight crews.
International Documentation Requirements
Entering South American countries with a pet requires rigorous attention to government documentation.
Brazil: Requires an International Veterinary Certificate (CVI) issued by the veterinary authority of the country of origin.
Colombia: Requires an inspection by the ICA (Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario) upon arrival.
Argentina: Requires a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination, typically valid for at least 21 days but less than 12 months.
Chile: Requires a certificate issued by the official authority of the origin country and verified by SAG (Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero).
How to Book a Pet on LATAM
Select Your Flight: Book your ticket first, ensuring the flight type allows for pet transport.
Request Space: Immediately add your pet to the booking via the "My Trips" section or by calling the LATAM Contact Center.
Prepare Documentation: Gather all health certificates, vaccination records, and (if applicable) ESA paperwork.
Confirm Compliance: Verify that your carrier or crate meets the specific dimension and material requirements for your aircraft.
Airport Check-in: Arrive at the airport early. You must present your pet and all original health documentation at the check-in counter for verification.
Tips for Flying With Your Pet
Veterinary Consultation: Schedule a check-up within 10 days of your flight to ensure your pet is fit for travel and meets all destination-specific health requirements.
Acclimatization: If your pet is traveling in the hold, ensure they are fully comfortable in their crate weeks before the departure date.
Direct Flights: Whenever possible, choose direct flights. Each stopover increases the risk of delay, temperature fluctuations, and stress for your pet.
Check the best airlines for large dogs: Best Airlines for Large Dogs 2026
Comparison: LATAM vs. Competitors
Feature | LATAM Airlines | Global Carriers (Major) |
In-Cabin Access | High (Small Pets) | High (Small Pets) |
ESA Policy | Yes (Specific Routes) | Rarely |
South America Hubs | Extensive | Limited |
Cargo Safety | Robust | Varies |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I take my pet in the cabin on all LATAM flights?
Pets under 7 kg (including carrier) are permitted in the cabin on most flights. Always verify your specific aircraft and route limitations during booking.
Q: Is LATAM’s ESA policy available on every flight?
No. LATAM’s ESA policy is specific to certain routes, particularly those involving countries like Colombia, Argentina, and Mexico. Always verify current eligibility with customer service.
Q: What happens if my pet exceeds the 7 kg limit?
Pets exceeding the 7 kg weight limit must travel in the cargo hold, which must be booked through the LATAM Cargo division or an authorized agent.
Q: Are snub-nosed breeds allowed to fly?
Brachycephalic breeds face significant restrictions and are often banned from cargo hold transport due to their physical predisposition to respiratory distress.
Q: What documents are needed to enter Brazil with a dog?
You must provide an International Veterinary Certificate (CVI) issued by the official veterinary authority of your departure country.
Q: Should I book my pet’s travel simultaneously with my ticket?
Yes. Pet cabin space is limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Book your pet’s space immediately after securing your own flight.
Before flying with your pet on LATAM, make sure you have the right documentation for your destination. Pet Holiday Club covers 190+ countries with free, government-sourced, vet-verified pet travel checklists at petholidayclub.com — so you arrive prepared, not refused.
