In a recent press release titled ‘Cats out the Bag,’ Virgin Airlines expressed their excitement about becoming the go-to airline for pet-loving travelers. And it seems they have good reason to be thrilled. According to a survey conducted in 2021, a whopping 85% of people supported the idea of having pets in the cabin. In fact, 57% even claimed that they would become more frequent flyers if they could bring their furry companions along for the journey.

Jayne Hrdlicka, the CEO of Virgin Airlines, shared her enthusiasm for this new venture, saying, “Our love for animals has always been in the Virgin Australia DNA, and we are excited at the prospect of taking off with Australia’s first-ever pets in cabin flights. It’s something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well.”

But what does this mean for those traveling without pets? Rest assured, Virgin Airlines understands the importance of ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone on board. To minimize any potential impact, strict rules and regulations will be put in place. Additionally, assistance animals will still be allowed to travel at no cost.

So, how will it all work? Small dogs and cats that can fit into a carrier placed under the seat in front of the passenger will be welcome on board. These furry passengers will not roam freely during the flight, as an approved carrier will be utilized. While the cost of this service has not been disclosed yet, a reasonable fee will be charged to those who qualify.

Of course, it’s natural for travelers to have questions about this exciting new service. For example, what if someone has allergies and wants to avoid sitting next to a dog or cat? Virgin Atlantic, committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, assures that they are taking steps to address these concerns. In the coming months, they will be designing a safe proposition that takes into account the needs of both pet owners and non-pet owners alike.