Virgin Atlantic ESA Policy - [Updated After 2021]

As of January 2021, Virgin Atlantic no longer accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in the cabin. Fully trained service dogs are still allowed, provided they meet the airline’s training and behavior requirements. ESAs can travel as regular pets, following the airline’s pet travel policy, with applicable fees and size restrictions. Read on for more!

Virgin Atlantic: Key Guidelines for Traveling with Pets and Service Animals

Virgin Atlantic’s pet travel policies are designed to make sure that all passengers and animals have a safe, comfortable journey. Below are the essential guidelines you must follow when traveling with your pet or emotional support animal.

Breed Restrictions and Safety Concerns
For safety reasons, Virgin Atlantic does not permit certain breeds, including aggressive or brachycephalic (snub or pug nose) dogs, in the cabin or cargo hold. Be sure to verify any breed-related restrictions before booking your pet’s travel.
Pet Carrier Guidelines
When traveling with a pet in the cabin, Virgin Atlantic requires that the carrier be large enough for the animal to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. The carrier must fit under the seat, and specific size limits apply depending on the aircraft.
Booking Your Pet’s Travel in Advance
To ensure a smooth travel experience, Virgin Atlantic encourages passengers to notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance when traveling with a pet or service dog. All necessary documentation should be prepared to avoid delays or issues at check-in.
Health and Behavior Standards for Animals
Virgin Atlantic requires that all animals are healthy, well-behaved, and non-disruptive. Aggressive or sick animals may be denied boarding for the safety of everyone on board. Dangerous dogs acting as a threat will be removed or securely restrained before the flight.

ESA & Pet Travel in Virgin Atlantic’s Cargo Hold

For pets that cannot travel in the cabin due to size or weight restrictions, Virgin Atlantic offers secure cargo travel options. This pet travel scheme set allows animals to be transported safely in the cargo hold using airline-approved kennels. These carriers are designed for ventilation and comfort throughout the journey.
Cargo travel fees vary depending on the pet's size, weight, and travel route. Virgin Atlantic advises passengers to book this service well in advance and ensure compliance with all health and documentation requirements for international pet travel.

Virgin Atlantic's ESA and Pet Travel Policies: Key Points

Virgin Atlantic has updated its policies to align with the Air Carrier Access Act (ACCA). ESAs are allowed by licensed mental health professionals to help with mental health issues. However, they are not considered helpful for mobility and are treated as pets.

Here are the guidelines you should follow when traveling on a Virgin Atlantic flight with ESAs, pets, or service animals:

Emotional Support Animals Are No Longer Recognized

As of January 2021, Virgin Atlantic does not recognize ESAs as service animals. Passengers wishing to travel with ESAs must follow the pet travel policy, which includes carrier size requirements, route-specific restrictions, and additional fees.

In-Cabin Travel for Small Pets

Small pets, such as cats and dogs, may travel in the cabin if they meet Virgin Atlantic’s requirements. These pets must remain in an approved carrier that fits under the seat, ensuring comfort for both the pet and other passengers. Fees vary depending on the destination and travel class.

Cargo Options for Larger Animals

For pets that cannot be accommodated in the cabin, Virgin Atlantic offers safe and secure transport in the cargo hold. Size, weight, and kennel standards must be met, and reservations should be made well in advance.

Service Dogs Fly at No Extra Charge

Virgin Atlantic supports passengers with disabilities by allowing fully trained service dogs to fly free of charge in the cabin. These dogs must assist with specific tasks related to a disability, and documentation is required to confirm their training and purpose.

Advance Planning is Encouraged

To ensure a seamless experience, Virgin Atlantic recommends notifying the airline ahead of time when traveling with a pet or service dog. This allows staff to provide proper assistance and verify all required documents in advance.

Virgin Atlantic Policies for Service and Psychiatric Service Dogs

Virgin Atlantic is committed to ensuring passengers with disabilities or in need of mobility aids can travel comfortably with their service animals. This includes Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSDs) and other trained guide dogs or assistance animals, which are allowed on board free of charge, in compliance with international travel regulations.

To ensure a smooth and safe journey, Virgin Atlantic requires passengers traveling with service dogs or PSDs to follow specific guidelines:

Training and Task Requirements
Service dogs and PSDs must be professionally trained to assist with tasks related to the passenger’s disability. These tasks could include providing mobility assistance, supporting mental health, or responding to medical emergencies. Only dogs that meet these criteria are eligible for travel.
Documentation for Service Animals
Passengers must submit the necessary forms, including the service animal relief attestation form. Also include documentation that confirms the service dog’s training, behavior, and health. Virgin Atlantic may also request additional forms for long flights to ensure the dog can endure the journey without issues.
Behavior Expectations
Service dogs and PSDs must be well-behaved at all times. They must remain under the handler’s control and not disrupt other passengers or flight operations. Virgin Atlantic reserves the right to refuse travel if the dog is deemed disruptive or poses a safety concern.
Seating Arrangements
Service dogs must be seated in the handler’s designated foot space. They should not obstruct the aisle or other passengers’ seating areas. Virgin Atlantic allows one service dog per passenger.
Advance Notice and Compliance
Passengers planning to travel with a service dog or PSD are encouraged to notify Virgin Atlantic at least 48 hours before their flight. This ensures the airline has enough time to verify documentation and accommodate any seating arrangements.

Virgin Atlantic’s policies provide a framework for passengers with disabilities to travel with their service dogs in a way that prioritizes comfort, safety, and ease of travel for everyone.

Summarizing Virgin Atlantic's Pet & ESA Travel Policy

Small pets are allowed in cabins in approved carriers under the seat.
Larger pets must travel in cargo with advance booking.
Certain breeds (e.g., bulldogs, pugs) are not allowed.
Service dogs travel free with proof of training and health.
Service dogs must be calm and under control at all times.
One service dog or ESA/pet per passenger must sit in the foot space.
Notify Virgin Atlantic 48 hours before travel with pets, ESAs, or service dogs.
Additional documentation and requirements for international travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel with my pet on Virgin Atlantic if it's not in an approved carrier?

No, Virgin Atlantic requires pets to travel in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat for in-cabin travel. Pets not in an approved carrier will not be allowed to board.

Are there any special considerations for flying with elderly or disabled pets?

Yes, elderly or disabled pets may require extra care. It's recommended to consult your vet before flying and inform Virgin Atlantic in advance to ensure special accommodations and handling during the flight.

Can I bring more than one pet on the same flight?

Virgin Atlantic typically allows only one pet per passenger in the cabin. If you have multiple pets, you will need to make separate arrangements or travel with them in the cargo hold.

Is there a weight limit for pets traveling in the cargo hold?

Yes, there are weight limits for pets traveling in the cargo hold, and these vary depending on the aircraft and route. It's important to contact Virgin Atlantic to confirm the specific weight restrictions before booking.

Can my pet travel on a connecting flight with Virgin Atlantic?

Yes, pets can travel on connecting flights, but you will need to ensure the connection is suitable for the pet's transfer. Virgin Atlantic recommends you confirm arrangements for layovers to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety.

What should I do if my pet is anxious during the flight?

If your pet is anxious, it's best to speak with your veterinarian beforehand for advice and possibly medication to help ease travel. Virgin Atlantic also recommends preparing your pet by acclimating them to their carrier before the flight. You can keep essentials such as an absorbent mat to help with anxious urination during the flight.

Are there any specific destinations where Virgin Atlantic doesn’t accept pets?

Virgin Atlantic may have specific restrictions for certain destinations, including quarantine laws or animal importation regulations. It’s important to check the requirements for your destination country before booking.

Can I upgrade my pet’s travel experience to a higher class?

Unfortunately, Virgin Atlantic does not offer upgrades for pets. Pets in the cabin must stay in an approved carrier under the seat, and pets traveling in the cargo hold will be handled in accordance with the airline’s standard protocols.

Does Virgin Atlantic have an animal reception centre?

Yes, Virgin Atlantic has an Animal Reception Centre at some airports. It helps take care of pets traveling in the cargo hold. The centre makes sure pets are checked, safe, and comfortable before and after their flight. If you're traveling with a pet in the cabin, you just need to follow the regular pet travel rules.