Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy: Travel with Cats, Dogs & Fee

Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy ensures that your four-legged companions can join you on your next adventure across the Nordics, Europe, and beyond with clear, safety-first guidelines. Whether you are planning a short hop from Oslo to Stockholm or a longer journey across the European Union, understanding the nuances of the Norwegian Airline Pet Policy is the first step toward a stress-free flight. In 2026, air travel with pets has become more streamlined, but specific regulations regarding crate sizes, fees, and destination-specific health requirements remain critical for every pet owner to master.

For immediate assistance or to book your pet’s flight today, you can contact the support desk at +1-877-593-4887.

Quick Overview: Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy

The Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy allows small domesticated cats and dogs to travel on eligible domestic and international routes within the EU and Schengen Area. Pets may fly in the cabin or as checked baggage in the cargo hold, depending on their size, weight, and route restrictions.

Key Rules and Eligibility

• Allowed pets: Only cats and dogs are accepted.
• Minimum age: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
• Advance booking: Pet space is limited and must be reserved at least 48 hours before departure.
• Service animals: Trained service dogs are permitted to fly free of charge in the cabin on all routes.

Cabin vs. Cargo Travel Options

• In-Cabin (PETC): Pets must weigh no more than 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including the carrier. The carrier must be soft-sided, leak-proof, and fit under the seat, with maximum dimensions of 43 × 31 × 20 cm. Fees vary by route and payment timing.
• Cargo Hold (AVIH): Larger cats and dogs may travel in the aircraft’s heated and pressurized cargo hold on most EU and Schengen flights (excluding certain destinations such as the UK and Ireland). Pets must travel in IATA-approved crates, and fees depend on route and pet size.

International Pet Travel Requirements

Norwegian Airlines follows EU pet passport regulations for international travel. Pets must be:

• Microchipped
• Vaccinated against rabies (with a 21-day waiting period after the first vaccination)

Additional permits may be required for special destinations such as Svalbard, which are regulated by Norwegian authorities.

Does Norwegian Airlines Allow Pets on Flights?

Yes, Norwegian Airlines allows pets on flights, subject to specific rules. Only small cats and dogs are accepted on eligible routes within the EU and Schengen Area. Pets may travel in the cabin if they weigh up to 8 kg including the carrier, or in the heated, pressurized cargo hold for larger animals using IATA-approved crates. Pets must be at least 8 weeks old, microchipped, and properly vaccinated. Advance booking is required, as pet spaces are limited. Trained service dogs may fly free of charge in the cabin on all routes.

What Is the Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy?

The Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy is a set of comprehensive rules designed to ensure the safety of animals, passengers, and crew members. Unlike some low-cost carriers that completely prohibit animal transport, Norwegian remains a relatively pet-friendly choice for travelers within the Schengen Area and the EU.

The policy defines exactly which animals can fly, where they can sit, and what documentation is required to cross borders. It is updated annually to reflect the latest European Union pet travel regulations (Regulation (EU) No 576/2013) and IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards. By following these guidelines, the airline minimizes the risk of respiratory distress for snub-nosed breeds and ensures that the aircraft’s hold remains at a safe temperature and pressure for animals.

Types of Pets Allowed on Norwegian Airlines

While many passengers would love to bring their parrots, rabbits, or reptiles, Norwegian maintains a focused list of permitted animals to ensure specialized care.

Domestic Pets

• Dogs: The most common travelers. Small dogs fit in the cabin, while larger dogs must travel in the hold.
• Cats: Feline friends are welcome in both the cabin and the cargo hold, provided they meet the weight and health requirements.

Restricted or Not Accepted Pets

• Exotic Animals: Animals such as snakes, spiders, and primates are strictly prohibited.
• Reptiles, Rodents, and Birds: Unlike some North American carriers, the Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy Domestic Flights specifically excludes rodents (like hamsters or guinea pigs), rabbits, and birds from their passenger flights. These animals may sometimes be transported via dedicated cargo services, but never in the cabin or as checked baggage.

If you have a unique pet and are unsure of their eligibility, call +1-877-593-4887 for a definitive answer before you buy your ticket.

Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy for In-Cabin Travel

Traveling with your pet in the cabin is often the preferred choice for owners of “teacup” breeds or kittens. This allows you to keep an eye on your pet throughout the flight.

• Small Pets Eligibility: Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old to travel. They must also be calm, odorless, and not exhibit signs of distress or aggression.
• Maximum Pet Weight: The total weight of the pet + the carrier must be no more than 8 kg. If your pet is borderline, it is better to opt for the cargo hold to avoid being denied at the gate.
• Approved Pet Carrier: Only one carrier is allowed per passenger. Inside that carrier, you can have up to three very small puppies or kittens, provided they are of the same litter and don’t exceed the 8 kg limit.
• Seating Restrictions: Passengers with pets cannot sit in emergency exit rows, bulkhead seats, or seats with extra legroom where there is no under-seat storage. Your pet carrier must remain under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight.

Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy for Checked Baggage / Cargo

For larger dogs or cats that exceed the 8 kg limit, the cargo hold is a safe, temperature-controlled environment.

• When Pets Must Travel in the Hold: If your pet + crate weighs more than 8 kg, or if you are traveling on certain routes that mandate cargo transport, your pet will be checked in as “AVIH” (Animal Vivant in Hold).
• Temperature and Aircraft Restrictions: Norwegian uses modern Boeing 737 and 787 aircraft where the hold is pressurized and heated. However, during extreme weather (below -10°C or above 30°C), the airline may restrict pet travel for safety.
• Pet Crate Requirements: The crate must be IATA-approved, leak-proof, and allow the pet to stand, turn, and lie down in a natural position.
• Health and Safety: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) animals like Bulldogs or Persian cats are at higher risk in the hold. Owners are often required to sign a waiver acknowledging these risks.

Norwegian Airlines International Pet Policy

Navigating the Norwegian Airlines International Pet Policy requires more than just booking a ticket; it requires a deep dive into “Pet Passports” and vaccination schedules.

• Rules for International Flights: Pets are generally allowed on flights within the EU and Schengen Area. However, travel to the UK or Ireland is highly restricted, often only allowing Norwegian Airlines Service Dog entries due to local quarantine laws.
• Country-Specific Entry Requirements: Every country has its own rules. For instance, traveling to Svalbard requires a special permit from the Norwegian Food Safety Authority.
• Vaccination and Documentation: A valid Rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel) and a microchip are mandatory for almost all international routes.
• Transit and Connecting Flight Rules: If you have a layover in Oslo, your pet must remain in their carrier. Ensure your transit time is sufficient for a “potty break” outside the terminal if the airport allows.

For those looking at long-haul options, the Norwegian Airlines International Pet Policy Flights often vary by season, so always double-check the current status of your specific route at +1-877-593-4887.

Norwegian Airlines Domestic Pet Policy

Domestic travel within Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Spain is significantly simpler than crossing international borders.

• Pet Travel Rules on Domestic Routes: Under the Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy Domestic framework, the requirements for health certificates are often relaxed, but the microchip and age requirements remain.
• Differences: Unlike international travel, domestic flights may have higher availability for pet spots.
• Regional Restrictions: Some smaller regional aircraft operated by partners may have smaller under-seat dimensions. Always verify your aircraft type on your booking confirmation.

Norwegian Airlines Pet Fees and Charges

Traveling with a pet is an added expense, and the Norwegian Pet Price structure is designed to be transparent.

Note: These fees are per animal, per leg. If you have a connecting flight, you may be charged twice. Fees are non-refundable unless the flight is cancelled by the airline. For a precise quote based on today’s exchange rates, contact +1-877-593-4887.

Norwegian Airlines Pet Carrier Requirements

Your choice of carrier can make or break your trip. If the carrier doesn’t meet the Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy specs, you won’t be allowed on board.

In-Cabin Pet Carrier Rules

• Size Limits: The maximum dimensions are 43 x 31 x 20 cm.
• Material: Soft-sided “Sherpa” bags are highly recommended because they can compress slightly to fit under the seat.
• Ventilation: The bag must have mesh on at least three sides to ensure your pet can breathe easily.

Cargo Pet Crate Rules

• IATA-Compliant: The crate must be made of hard plastic or metal (no wooden crates).
• Labeling: Must have “Live Animal” stickers and your contact information clearly visible.
• Bedding: Use absorbent material like a puppy pad. Straw and newspaper are usually not allowed.

Norwegian Airlines Service Dog Policy

A Norwegian Airlines Service Dog is not treated as a pet; they are considered essential medical equipment.

• Definition: Only dogs specifically trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability (visual, hearing, mobility, or psychiatric) are recognized.
• Documentation: You must provide proof of training from an accredited organization (like ADI or IGDF), especially for flights to the UK.
• Emotional Support Animals (ESA): Note that under the updated Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy, ESAs are no longer recognized as service animals. They must travel under the standard pet policy rules and pay the associated fees.
• Seating: Service dogs usually sit at the passenger’s feet. It is recommended to book a window seat to provide the dog with a protected space.

How to Book a Pet on Norwegian Airlines?

Ready to fly? Follow this step-by-step process:

• Check Availability: Before buying your ticket, check if there is pet space on the flight. You can do this on the Norwegian website during the “Add Baggage” step or by calling +1-877-593-4887.
• Add to Booking: Select “Pet in Cabin” or “Pet in Hold” during the online checkout.
• Pay the Fee: It is always cheaper to pay online than at the airport.
• Confirm the Limits: Most flights only allow 2 pets in the cabin. If you see the option is greyed out, the limit has been reached.

Important Pet Travel Tips for Norwegian Airlines Passengers

• Acclimatization: Spend weeks getting your pet used to their carrier at home. Use treats and toys to create a positive association.
• Health Check: Visit your vet 10 days before travel to ensure your pet is fit to fly. Avoid sedatives, as they can interfere with a pet’s ability to regulate their body temperature at high altitudes.
• Reddit Wisdom: If you search the Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy Reddit threads, the most common advice is to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early. Pet check-in takes longer than a standard suitcase.
• Hydration: For cargo travel, attach a water bottle to the outside of the crate so handlers can refill it without opening the door.

Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy: Special Considerations for 2026

As we move through 2026, many travelers are asking about long-haul routes. It is important to note that the Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy Transatlantic and Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy Usa options have changed. Following the airline’s restructuring, Norwegian currently focuses on European and Nordic routes. Direct pet transport to the USA via Norwegian is currently limited or handled by partner airlines. If you are trying to navigate a Norwegian Airlines International Pet Policy route that involves a connection to North America, you must verify the pet policies of every airline in your itinerary.

Conclusion

The Norwegian Airlines Pet Policy is designed to be fair and functional for the modern traveler. While the 8 kg limit for cabin travel is strict, it ensures that your pet is comfortable in the limited space under the seat. For larger animals, the cargo hold offers a safe alternative on most European routes. By preparing your documentation early, choosing the right carrier, and booking your spot in advance, you can ensure that your furry friend enjoys the journey just as much as you do.

For any remaining questions or to confirm a booking for your pet, please call the dedicated help line at +1-877-593-4887.