Traveling internationally with a pet takes more planning than most travelers expect, especially when flying long-haul routes. The El Al Pet Policy has specific requirements that differ from many U.S. and European airlines, particularly for transatlantic flights and routes to Israel. Understanding documentation, carrier rules, breed limitations, and cargo procedures can help you avoid denied boarding or unexpected fees at the airport. If you need immediate booking or pet-travel guidance, you can speak with a travel specialist at +1-855-869-7071.
This article includes the latest airline policy updates and booking changes applicable for 2026, giving you a clear picture of what to expect before reserving your ticket.
What Is the El Al Pet Policy in 2026?
The El Al Pet Policy allows small cats and dogs to travel either in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on size, route, and aircraft type. However, space is limited per flight, and approval must be secured in advance.
While many airlines now advertise flexible pet programs, El Al maintains stricter documentation standards for international arrivals, especially for flights entering Israel.
Key highlights of the El Al Pet Policy:
Pets must be pre-approved before arrival at the airport
Only cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin
Weight limits apply to combined pet and carrier
Temperature restrictions may apply for cargo transport
Health certificates and vaccination records are mandatory
Entry rules for Israel may differ from departure-country rules
Compared with airlines like Delta or Lufthansa, which allow small pets on many domestic routes without extensive paperwork, El Al’s process requires more advance verification, particularly for long-haul flights from New York to Tel Aviv.
What Are the Current El Al Pet Travel Requirements?
Understanding El Al pet travel requirements is critical before booking. These requirements apply to both cabin and cargo travel and are actively enforced.
El Al pet travel requirements typically include:
Valid veterinary health certificate issued within required timeframe
Proof of rabies vaccination
Microchip identification (ISO-compliant for Israel entry)
Import permit when required by destination
Advance reservation confirmation for pet space
Travelers flying routes such as New York–Tel Aviv or Los Angeles–Tel Aviv should allow additional processing time for documentation review. Unlike some European carriers that allow digital uploads closer to departure, El Al may require earlier confirmation.
If you are connecting from cities like Chicago–Orlando or Boston–Denver before an international segment, confirm whether partner airlines accept pets under the same ticket. Codeshare rules may differ.
How Do El Al Pet Carrier Rules Work for Cabin and Cargo?
El Al pet carrier rules vary depending on whether your pet travels in-cabin or in the hold.
For in-cabin pets:
Carrier must fit under the seat in front of you
Soft-sided carriers are usually preferred
Maximum combined pet + carrier weight applies
Pet must remain inside the carrier at all times
For cargo or checked transport:
Hard-sided, airline-approved kennel required
Adequate ventilation on all sides
Absorbent bedding inside
Food and water containers attached
When comparing to airlines operating high-frequency city pairs like Miami–Atlanta or Los Angeles–Dallas, some U.S. carriers allow slightly more generous cabin dimensions. El Al aircraft used on transatlantic routes may have stricter under-seat space limits.
Always measure before departure. Oversized carriers are a common reason for denied boarding under the El Al Pet Policy.
How Much Are El Al Pet Fees International Flights?
El Al pet fees international flights depend on route, cabin vs cargo, and pet weight.
Typical fee considerations:
Fixed cabin pet fee per direction
Higher fees for long-haul routes
Cargo pricing based on weight and crate size
Additional import-related costs
Unlike some U.S. airlines that eliminated change fees for passengers, pet transport fees are generally non-refundable if you voluntarily cancel.
If you are booking during peak travel periods, including sports events or holiday seasons, confirm pet space early. Flights between New York and Tel Aviv fill quickly.
Are Pets Allowed on El Al Flights for All Routes?
Many travelers ask whether pets allowed on El Al flights applies to every destination. The answer depends on aircraft type and country regulations.
General guidelines:
Pets allowed on most long-haul routes with prior approval
Certain short-haul or regional aircraft may have restrictions
Entry restrictions depend on destination country
Snub-nosed breeds may face seasonal embargoes
For example, while a domestic U.S. route like New York–Las Vegas may allow easy pet booking on U.S. carriers, international entry into Israel requires stricter compliance.
Always check destination import rules before finalizing your reservation.
Step-by-Step: How to Add a Pet Under the El Al Animal Transport Policy
Booking correctly under the El Al animal transport policy reduces last-minute stress. Follow this process carefully. If you need help verifying documents, contact +1-855-869-7071 for assistance.
Step 1: Book your passenger ticket firstStep 2: Contact the airline or travel support to request pet spaceStep 3: Confirm cabin or cargo eligibilityStep 4: Submit health certificate and vaccination recordsStep 5: Receive written approval before departureStep 6: Arrive early at the airport for inspection
Under the El Al animal transport policy, showing up without prior approval may result in denied boarding.
Compared to airlines serving Boston–Denver or Chicago–Orlando domestically, where pets can often be added during booking, El Al requires more manual coordination.
March Madness Travel Deals 2026: Booking Strategies with Pets
During major sporting events, including NCAA tournaments, routes connecting U.S. hubs experience higher demand. While El Al focuses on international routes, connecting segments on partner airlines may sell out quickly.
March Madness Travel Deals 2026 booking tips:
Secure pet approval before purchasing non-refundable fares
Consider flexible economy tickets
Avoid tight layovers when traveling with animals
Book mid-week departures for better availability
Cheap Flights for March Madness 2026 often appear 6–10 weeks before peak travel dates. If combining domestic sports travel with an international trip, confirm that all carriers honor pet reservations across segments.
Can I Change or Cancel a Pet Booking on El Al?
Flight flexibility matters when traveling with animals. The El Al Pet Policy follows the airline’s general fare rules.
Current 2026 change and cancellation framework:
Passenger ticket change fees depend on fare class
Fare differences apply when rebooking
Pet fees may not be refundable if canceled voluntarily
Same-day flight changes subject to availability
Cargo arrangements may require re-approval
If you booked a flexible fare, changing dates may be easier. However, pet space must still be available on the new flight.
For last-minute changes, contact support at +1-855-869-7071 before modifying your ticket online.
Why Is El Al a Stronger Choice for Certain Routes?
El Al operates nonstop service between Tel Aviv and major U.S. cities like New York and Los Angeles. For travelers relocating with pets, nonstop flights reduce stress compared to multi-stop itineraries.
Advantages include:
Direct Tel Aviv routes from major U.S. hubs
Fewer transfers for long-haul pet travel
Strong compliance with Israeli import regulations
Dedicated staff familiar with international documentation
On short-haul U.S. routes like Miami–Atlanta or Los Angeles–Dallas, domestic carriers may offer easier pet booking. But for direct Israel service, El Al often provides fewer connection risks.
Choosing a nonstop flight reduces crate handling and potential delays.
Call Before You Book: Avoid Common Pet Travel Mistakes
Many denied boardings happen because travelers assume policies match other airlines. Always verify details before paying.
Common mistakes to avoid:
Booking basic economy without checking change restrictions
Assuming pet space is guaranteed after ticket purchase
Using a non-compliant carrier
Forgetting import permits
Ignoring breed-specific embargoes
If your travel includes connections or last-minute adjustments, confirm every segment. For professional support, call travel assistant before finalizing payment.
We are an independent travel assistance agency, not officially affiliated with any airline, but here to help you with your travel queries and support you every step of the way.
Airfare Policies provides guidance for travelers comparing international airline rules and resolving booking complications.
March Madness Flight Deals 2026: Flexible Fare Planning
When combining sports travel with international trips, flexibility matters more than price alone.
March Madness Travel Deals 2026 strategies:
Choose fares with lower change penalties
Monitor price drops within 24 hours of booking
Use flexible date searches
Consider alternate departure airports
Cheap Flights for March Madness 2026 are attractive, but deeply discounted fares often carry stricter modification rules. If traveling with pets, flexibility may save more than a slightly lower base fare.
FAQs
What airline has the most lenient pet policy?Airlines like Alaska Airlines and Southwest are often considered among the most lenient for in-cabin pet travel on domestic routes. They typically have straightforward booking processes, reasonable fees, and fewer breed restrictions, though international routes still require strict documentation compliance.
Can I make same-day changes with a pet booking?
Same-day changes are possible if your ticket allows it and pet space exists on the new flight. Contact +1-855-869-7071 immediately to confirm availability before modifying your reservation.
Are pets allowed on El Al airlines?Yes, pets are allowed on El Al flights, including in-cabin and cargo options for cats and dogs. Advance approval is required, and travelers must meet documentation, vaccination, microchip, and carrier size requirements, especially for international travel to Israel.
How do pets pee on long flights?Pets typically relieve themselves before departure and after landing. For long flights, absorbent pads are placed inside the carrier. Owners are advised to limit food before travel and use vet-recommended strategies to keep pets comfortable during extended journeys.
What are the new rules for flying with dogs?New rules focus on stricter health documentation, microchip identification, vaccination proof, and advance booking confirmation. Many airlines limit emotional support animals, require approved carriers, and enforce breed or temperature restrictions for cargo travel on domestic and international routes.
Read More: Can ANA Tickets Be Corrected After Purchase?
Final Thoughts on Flying with Pets in 2026
The El Al Pet Policy requires more preparation than many domestic airlines, but it provides structured, regulated international transport—especially valuable on nonstop U.S.–Israel routes. Always confirm El Al pet carrier rules, review El Al animal transport policy steps carefully, and understand El Al pet travel requirements before booking.
For travelers planning sports trips or international relocations, balancing flexibility with compliance is key. March Madness Travel Deals 2026 and Cheap Flights for March Madness 2026 may offer savings, but documentation readiness matters more when animals are involved.
If you need help comparing fare classes, modifying a reservation, or confirming pets allowed on El Al flights, contact +1-855-869-7071 for professional travel assistance.
Airfare Policies is here to help you travel smarter, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure your pet’s journey is as smooth as your own.
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