Pawsengers or Problem?
Virgin Australia’s Pet-Friendly Flights Divide the Skies
Get ready to pack your bags and your pooch. Virgin Australia is shaking up the skies after winning regulatory approval to allow pets in the cabin on domestic flights. For the first time in Australia, passengers may soon be joined by small dogs or cats (firmly zipped in carriers, of course) right under the seat in front of them.
Fur-ther Complications Averted
Until now, pets were banned due to a bizarre rule treating aircraft like restaurants. But thanks to Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ), the regulation has been cleared for takeoff. FSANZ declared the risk of a cat near your snack pack “low,” provided proper controls are in place. That’s one less excuse for the in-flight menu.
Team Pet vs. Team Peace
Not everyone is wagging their tail. While some are already planning matching travel outfits for themselves and their Cavoodle, others dread the idea of mid-air meows and surprise sneezes. Two pet-designated rows will be available, and all animals must weigh under 8kg (carrier included) and stay confined for the flight’s duration. Still, frequent flyers are asking: Will the dog bark louder than the baby?
Final Say Belongs to the Captain
Don’t get too comfy yet. Pilots retain the right to refuse pets onboard. According to CASA, captains are in charge of all passengers and cargo (furry or otherwise) and can decline animals if safety is at stake.
Coming Soon to a Cabin Near You
Virgin says pet flights should launch by the end of the year, with bookings through their Guest Contact Centre. Whether it’s a pawsitive move or a turbulent mistake, one thing’s clear: the great pet debate is officially airborne.
