Agency orders Air Canada to reverse pet policy

TORONTO — Air Canada has been ordered to clear pets for takeoff on its domestic passenger flights after a ruling by the Canadian Transportation Agency.

The agency has ruled Air Canada (TSX:AC.A) must resume carrying small animals in the baggage compartment on flights within Canada as of May 5, and also on international flights.

Jadrino Huot, a spokesman for the agency in Ottawa, said the revisions were considered "unreasonable'' as they exposed pet owners to "many significant disadvantages''.

The ruling came in response to a complaint filed by Peter Griffiths who argued that shipping his six-kilogram dog on a cargo flight from Canada to Mexico, instead of by passenger plane, would cost him an extra $115.

Griffiths also said his dog might be required to stop over during a trip, and that it was inconvenient for him to deliver and pick up his pet at cargo terminals.

In Toronto, Air Canada spokesman Peter Fitzpatrick said the airline is reviewing the ruling and had no further comment. No immediate change was made to the airline's pet policy on its website.

Air Canada stopped allowing pets on domestic passenger planes last July, forcing travellers to put their pets on cargo flights. Its plan to do the same for international flights was suspended by the agency last summer.

The airline said it had made the change so it could carry more checked luggage -- a need that had increased due to higher passenger loads and security measures that limited what passengers could carry on board. The policy did not apply to guide dogs for the blind.

In its ruling, the agency said the airline's policy to ban pets and kennels weighing less than 31.7 kilograms (70 pounds) was unreasonable as it created too many difficulties for pet owners.

It said cargo flights carry a lower priority and, due to the uncertainty of scheduling cargo, a pet owner may not know when a pet is to arrive at its destination.<

Huot said the airline must comply with the ruling, although the decision could be appealed to Federal Court.

In September 2006, Air Canada banned pets from its airline cabins but the agency's ruling does not apply to pets in cabins.

Comments are now closed for this story

Derek Vince
said
0 0

a victory yes,but the reality is.
Do you want your pet on a plane that the airline had to be taken to this length to allow it.
Would you put your child on a school bus that fought through the legal system to not carry children.
Shame on you air canada every dog owner that travels should do so by whatever means never to use your services again:

C. M. Sense
said
0 0

Thank God the animals are STILL NOT allowed in the cabin! Crying little kids are bad enough!

Kelly in NB
said
0 0

Folks, not everyone travels for vacation. I've had to travel because I was moving across country. I wasn't about to leave my pet behind. Given the stresses faced by those moving, I wouldn't expect anyone to have to deal with further uncertainties like when my pet would show up because the cargo plane was delayed.
Come on, worried about luggage being left behind? Before anyone attacks those who are trying to keep a living creature close by, try talking to the folks who have super large bags and multiple bags if you want to complain about "taking up space"
You don't have to be a pet lover to have compassion for these creatures. Keep them on the same flight as the owners.

Pet owner
said
0 0

For all of you people that are mad at this ruling and are posting rude comments about those who carry their pets, you should be ashamed of yourselves. Some people consider their pets an important part of their lives. So sorry that you couldn't carry an extra bag to make sure your hordes of junk made it to your destination. Leave your pets on the ground you say? I say leave you and your negative attitude on the ground. If you can check your wanna be tiger nike golf clubs, then I can check my dog in a create for the same fee that it costs you to carry your golf clubs, which is nothing.

stan
said
0 0

I am allergic to cats and I have noticed that whenever there are cats in the baggage hold, I sneeze, cough and my eyes run pretty bad. I travel frequently by air. How is this going to be fair to me?

Jim
said
0 0

Oh great, didn't anyone see Snakes on a Plane.

They're just flirting with disaster.

Doc M
said
0 0

Glad to see pets and owners are to be allowed on the same plane once again. For those worried about space and/or costs, I suggest the airlines let the carrying crate be charged for in the same way travellers would be charged for that extra piece of luggage that so many people like to take along. Pets just could not be left behind of course in the way that extra luggage can be. That would be cruelty. I prefer to holiday without the responsibility of my pets and I doubt anyone takes along a pet without good cause. Let's ease up on the judgements people!!

AC
said
0 0

It makes perfect sense to me that anyone travelling with a pet--regardless of the reason, work, vacation, moving, etc.-- would want their pet to travel with them on the same aircraft at the same time. Pets are essentially family members. However, they are not ''human'' family members and I cannot think of a single reason why the animal should not be put in the baggage compartment. Many of us who fly have to deal with people who smell, people who snore, people who have poor eating habits, parents who refuse to discipline their unruly children, etc, but that's life and to suggest that because we have to put up with those people we should have to put up with people's pets is just plain silly. Animals are fine in the baggage compartment. It's too bad that anyone who thinks their pet will be ''uncomfortable'' while in the baggage compartment cannot join them down there if they think their presence will help, but in the end their pets will survive the flight.

As for anyone's luggage not making it onto the plane just because someone's pet is there, do you really think that the baggage compartment is so full from end to end that having a pet or two on a flight would mean there would be no room for your luggage? Has anyone ever been told they cannot check in one extra piece of luggage because the luggage compartment was full? I didn't think so.

Davesk
said
0 0

For those of you who are relocating ... take the pet in your vehicle. If you are with the Armed Forces, RCMP, or otherwise being reimbursed by your employer, the cargo fees can be covered in those expenses. That is, if your pet is as important to you as some of the other junk you transport. I am a pet owner and dog lover, who also pays to travel personally and on business: it's about time major limitations were placed on the amount -- and type -- of stuff that any passenger can take with them on a crowded airplan.

petowner
said
0 0

I am glad that Air Canada must resume carrying pets in its cargo (although I do wish its in the cabin as well). For those who have said it "will increase ticket prices" or "bring my pet tarantulas"- you have always had to pay to transport your pet (at times it cost me more for the pet to fly than my own ticket) and there were always guidelines in place for what animals you could or could not transport- so tarantulas- give me a break.

To those who argue about allergies in the cabin if a pet fly- I do understand your point. However, what would be the difference between someone's dog in a carrier under the seat and someone's service dog? There definitely are differences for sure- don't get me wrong- one dog is a working dog and a necessity; however, allergy wise I don't see the difference.

I've travelled with my pet for various reasons. Relocating. And when I was a student I would bring the cat home at Christmas because I could not afford to put her at the vet's for a couple of weeks. She counted towards my luggage- and I PAID for it (plus tax)- if I wanted to bring something else I had to pay more. I accepted that. Plus, only so many animals are accepted per flight- so if you aren't making a cross-country move- you really don't need everything in your luggage but the kitchen sink.

I currently fly Westjet where my pet is welcome. They treat me like they WANT my business and the customer service shows it. Plus, I do not get the feeling my pet will die if I leave her in their hands.

DEFSask
said
0 0

I'm a pet lover, and I think that this ruling stinks of you-know-what! Pets belong at home, in a kennel. As for 'inconvenience' for pet owners: what about the inconvenience for the rest of the passengers who can't get their luggage on their flight? If you choose to take your pet travelling, you should plan to pay the cost of cargo!

janet
said
0 0

Dog/cats etc. don't belong on planes! Try out your nearest kennel your pet will appreciate your consideration.

HL of Ottawa
said
0 0

What about my request to fly in comfort? Now that animals are regarded as worth more than luggage, humans should be treated the same and not be shoved into sardine cans.

I like animals but I do not appreciate their smell or shedding fur in my face. I hope all aero companies consider this before they change their policy to accommodate humans.

Janet
said
0 0

For those below who are complaining about taking pets on vacation - sometimes people actually MOVE and need to take their pets to new places! Don't be so foolishly small minded!

Ruth
said
0 0

When Air Canada stopped accepting small pets in the cabin I stopped flying their airline and their partner airlines. Pets in the cabin have strict international regulation. They must be under 6kg with carrier and they must fit under the seat in front of owner. I have been relocated many times with my job and my dog is not only within these guidelines but I also sedate him. He is less problem than most small children and does not disturb others. His carry case is also smaller than most carry one duffel bags people bring on board.

A Pleased Dog Owner
said
0 0

People - slow down and read! You will not come out of a plane smelling like a dog - you still cannot transport your dog/cat as carry-on baggage - solely as checked baggage - that means they still go in to the belly of the plane. There are many reasons for people to be travelling with their dogs/cats not only vacation - some of these people are moving, some of them are going to dog shows, and for any other number of reasons. People pay for the ability to send their animals as checked baggage and it counts as a piece of checked baggage - so not only are you paying for the priviledge you are also paying excess baggage charges if you travel with more than one suitcase as well as the kennel.

Truth over Rumour
said
0 0

I have been a frequent flyer for Air Canada for many years and I was thrilled to hear that they no longer allow pets in the cabin. As a person with a severe dog and cat allergy why should I have to suffer so that people can bring their pets instead of putting them in cargo?

Also, I love how people are saying that the Government should have a say after the billions in bail outs. (Heidi) Do your research! Air Canada hasn't taken a cent in government bailouts since it was a crown corporation in the eighties. People love to complain without knowing the truth. It was offered during the time the airline was in bankruptcy but never taken.

I love Air Canada and think they have great service. Yeah they could always do better but they must be rated number 1 in North America for a reason!

Colonel Blimp
said
0 0

This is nutty. I am all for treating animals in a humane fashion, but since when did their rights become almost on par with those of human beings? I like animals; it is their crazy owners who treat them with more respect than their fellow citizens that worry me. I have been on flights where people have been "allowed" to have their pets in the cabin, never a good situation for someone who has allergies or asthma, but we can�t have the pet suffering. I think Air Canada should be able to charge whatever they want for transporting pets, they do it for people! I would make the cost so prohibitive that no one in their right mind would fork it out.

GJ
said
0 0

Smell like a dog?

Ever sit next to someone who ate a garlic burrito for breakfast?

I prefer the dog, thanks.

ed best
said
0 0

Air Canada was insensitive and shortsighted with their arbitrary, blanket policy. Dogs are now trained for a multitude of purposes, many of which are scent detection as opposed to the more traditional "companion" dogs. Such dogs are extremely valuable and trained to behave under every possible circumstance, including air travel.
As the owner of trained scent dogs (which may be required in another city on very short notice), there is no alternative to air travel. The fact that Air Canada gave no meaningful consideration to such circumstances, was enough to ensure that all my air travel has been and will continue to be on WestJet.

Peter in Vancouver
said
0 0

In reading the comments so far, I cannot believe that some people believe that pets on board will increase the cost of flying! As for luggage space.....think outside the box. Why is there a greater demand for more luggage space? Probably because the airlines have jammed too many seats on the plane. Ever notice how your seat keeps getting smaller and your leg room keeps shrinking? If you want to point fingers, point them at the airlines for looking at ways to suck more profit out of the plane. If they could fit 6 more people on the plane by adding another row, they would. They will sacrifice comfort for profit. The last flight I took (just last month) had me contend with a knee in my space from the guy next to me as his legs couldn't fit with the seat in front of him being so close. Luckily I was with my wife and I scootched over into her space. Bottom line........too many seats on a plane creating a greater demand for more luggage space. If people want pets to travel with them, so be it. To everyone else, leave your entire wardrobe at home and just travel with the essentials. Maximum checked pieces of luggage doesn't mean you actually have to bring that many. Vee nailed it in their comment. Stop going for the quick complaint and see the larger picture people!

Laura
said
0 0

Pets on planes 1) The airplanes already have designated areas for pets. they do not take away any cargo space 2) Pets cost as much as people do to fly & when they fly unaccompanied (via cargo planes) the airlines sting you for even more money. Yes, we have flown with pets but only when moving from Ottawa to BC.

Rochelle
said
0 0

I leave my pets at home when I go away on vacation BUT when we moved across the country on three occasions, we had a seven day drive with the animals as opposed to a 5 hour flight. Which was more stressful? Spending 7 days in a car is not fun for the pets!
Flying with your animals should be reserved for situations like relocating, not a jump to Vancover for a week-long ski vacation!

m c
said
0 0

I suppose I can bring my pet snake with me when I am flying? What kind of rubbish. There are people who do not like to smell like a dog.

Trudy
said
0 0

In 2001 my cat, in a hand held carrier, flew under my seat from Altanta Georgia to NYC, then NYC to Halifax, Nova Scotia. He never made a peep the whole trip. Of course carry on pets should be allowed. It's stressful enough for animals in the passenger part of a plane let alone in the freight area. Least an owner's presence is of some comfort. Trudy

Consumer
said
0 0

I am glad to hear that Air Canada will need to adjust their ruling re pets. Pets travel for many reasons and not just vacation as folks keep mentioning here and we pay for the service where luggage is not an additional fee. People flying with pets need to know their pets will arrive when they arrive i.e. relocation, dog shows.

Pet Lover
said
0 0

As a pet lover I am so glad to hear of this ruling. I'm surprised with all the pet lovers that Air Canada has not felt this in their bottom line. I don't think as Frequent Flyer does that pets should be left at home, they are part of our family and people should be allowed to travel with them. Perhaps everyone should try flying with less baggage, how many items do you actually take and never use? The amount of baggage I see most people taking with them is ridiculous, I would rather see baggage limitations.
Also, I never fly Air Canada unless they are the only airline available. I have found their customer service to be terrible over the years.

Pet Lover

Pet owner
said
0 0

As a dog owner I can appreciate not having to load my dogs onto a cargo plane. But, as a paying customer I can also appreciate not having to pay higher fares. I agree with most people here that say to leave your pets at home. But, what if you are flying because you are relocating. Leaving a pet behind in that instance is not even an option in some cases. Also, if the airplane companies would be a little more reasonable with what we can bring onboard maybe they wouldn't have this problem to begin with.
I love Heidi's comment that the government does have a little say in Air Canada since they gave them billions of dollars to keep them in business.
And i also agree with Vee that if passengers wouldn't bring so much along we wouldn't be having such a problem. I am a heavy packer myself but I am trying to get better.

Frequent mover
said
0 0

Your insta-solutions are all well and good but what do you do when you are moving? Permanently? Can't "leave them at home" can you? As an RCMP wife, we move frequently and I would not be OK with the added stress of having our 2 pets go on a cargo plane, thats just one more thing to worry about.

Vee
said
0 0

Maybe if people didn't bring their entire wardrobe and walk-in closets with them on vacation, there would be enough room for both luggage and pets!

Wow, there's an idea!!

CABE
said
0 0

Leave your cat or dog at home or ship them as cargo.. do you really need your dog on vacation.. there are kennels and other places designed to store pets for a few weeks.... Thanks for increasing the cost of flying,

Heidi
said
0 0

As a pet owner, I can appreciate that it would be stressful to load my pet onto a cargo plane and hope for the best, however, I'm not a big fan of goverment stepping in and micro-managing business either!

In this particular case though, the Canadian goverment perhaps does have some rights after the billions in bail out, no?

Coffee, Tea or Me
said
0 0

Hopefully passengers will remember that pets take up room, as does carry-on luggage etc. If they are flying on a small aircraft, travel accordingly; otherwise book a flight on the AirBus. Have a nice flight and buckle up!

West Coast Rain Man
said
0 0

Good news! Now I can bring my pet tarantulas on board!

George kalba.
said
0 0

It's about time Air Canada got slapped in the head. As a aeroplane member I'm disgusted over the last several years of all the changes they have made. None of whitch benefits the consumer but only Air Canada. They should take some lessons from their rival WestJet who is doing a great job.

MR in NB
said
0 0

Travelling with pets is beyond me. Leave them home where they feel save and enjoy familiar surroundings. To force them on airplanes is selfish in many ways.

JBM
said
0 0

I hope people realize that because of this decision, there will be times when other paying passengers have their checked bags left behind due to lack of cargo space available on some aircraft.

Frequent Flyer
said
0 0

Lovely. Now they will do something like raise fairs. I am sorry but it is wrong for the government to tell businesses how to operate. I can tell you I would be some mad if my luggage did not make a flight because of some dog/cat. If you are going away put your animal up at the vet for a few weeks. Thats why they have that service.

Sigh... I wonder how many people the money wasted on extras like flights for pets would feed? Bottom Line, its a Cat/Dog/Rodent and it can stay on the ground.

Tori
said
0 0

As a dog owner I am hoping this new ruling comes to pass. I don't think cargo planes are appropriate for little animals.

I do however think that pets should NOT be allowed in the cabin. Although my dog is non shedding, others do and they create a mess and problems for people with allergies.

BG YYC
said
0 0

This is great news as we were about to book separate flights on Westjet and Air Canada. As Air Canada would not ship pets either my wife or myself would have to book flights on both carriers.

Westjet might be a great but there is no chance of an upgrade or access to a lounge!

Related Websites

The Canadian Transportation Agency statement

Most Viewed News Stories

View More News Stories

Most Talked about Stories

If there weren't so many people who hide their faces when committing violent acts then we wouldn't need a law forbidding masks. Unfortunately this is our society now. No one can hide their faces... we aren't special over here, violence has arrived and it is here to stay. Let's not kid ourselves. Violence just escalates to new levels. We've let this "hiding the faces" scenario go on far too long.

KC

Montreal bylaw could offer preview of federal mask ban

Got something to say? Share on CTV News

Pick your location

Top Stories -

News Sections

News Programs

Features

Browse: