SAS Pet Policy: Is SAS airlines pet friendly?

Traveling with your furry companion requires meticulous planning, and understanding the SAS Pet Policy is the first step toward a stress-free journey. As one of Europe’s most accommodating carriers, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) offers comprehensive options for bringing cats and dogs along, whether they are snuggled under the seat in front of you or resting safely in the climate-controlled baggage hold. In this guide, we break down the latest 2026 updates for SAS Airlines Pet Policy, covering everything from weight limits and carrier sizes to international documentation and fees. If you need immediate assistance with your booking, you can reach out to travel experts at +1-877-593-4887.

Quick Overview: SAS Pet Policy

SAS allows dogs and cats to travel in the cabin (up to 8 kg / 17 lbs including carrier) or in the cargo hold (up to 50 kg / 110 lbs including container) on most flights. Pets must be at least 8 weeks old, well-behaved, and reserved a minimum of 24 hours before departure. Only soft-sided, leak-proof carriers that fit under the seat are accepted in the cabin.

Key Aspects of SAS Pet Policy

• In-Cabin Travel:
  The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17 lbs). Carriers must be soft, ventilated, and fit under the seat, with approximate dimensions of 40 × 25 × 23 cm. Only one pet per carrier and one carrier per passenger is allowed.

• Cargo / Checked Pet Travel:
  Pets traveling in the cargo hold, including their IATA-approved rigid containers, may weigh up to 50 kg (110 lbs) in total. Advance booking through SAS Customer Service is required.

• Fees:
  Pet transport fees vary by route and direction and are charged per one-way flight.

• Documentation:
  A valid Certificate for Transportation of Animals (DOC) is mandatory. Additional health or vaccination requirements may apply depending on destination.

• Service Dogs:
  Recognized service dogs are generally accepted in the cabin free of charge, including on flights to and from the United States (up to two service dogs).

• Additional Guidelines:
  Pets must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside their container. Pets are typically allowed in SAS lounges if kept inside their carriers, except in Norway.

What Is SAS Pet In Cabin Policy?

The SAS Pet Policy in Cabin allows passengers to travel with small cats and dogs in the aircraft cabin, provided they stay within their carriers for the duration of the flight. This service is popular for travelers with small breeds who want to keep their pets nearby.

Under the SAS Pet in Cabin Policy, each passenger is allowed to bring one pet carrier. Interestingly, SAS permits two small pets of the same species to stay in the same carrier, provided they are comfortable together and the total weight does not exceed the limit.

Does SAS Allow Pets?

Yes, SAS is highly pet-friendly. However, they limit the number of animals per flight to ensure comfort and safety for all passengers. Because of these capacity limits, it is vital to check the SAS Pet Travel Policy before purchasing your ticket. Pets are generally not allowed in SAS Business Class or on certain charter flights due to space constraints under the seats.

General Rules for Pet Travel Policy

• Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
• Health: Animals must be healthy, odorless, and not pregnant.
• Booking: You must request pet space within 24 hours of booking your own ticket.
• Check-in: You cannot use self-service kiosks; you must check in at the airport counter with your pet.

What Makes SAS Pet-Friendly?

What sets the SAS Airline Pet Policy apart is the airline’s transparent fee structure and its dedication to animal welfare. They provide clear guidelines on “snub-nosed” breeds and offer “SAS Cargo” options for larger animals, ensuring that your pet’s journey is managed by professionals who understand animal behavior and safety.

SAS Pet In Cabin Weight, Carrier Size & Breed Rules

Adhering to the SAS Pet Policy Weight Limit is crucial. If your pet and carrier exceed the limit by even a small margin, they may be moved to the hold.

• Weight Limit: The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 8 kg (18 lbs).
• Carrier Dimensions: The maximum size for a cabin carrier is 40 x 25 x 23 cm (16 x 10 x 9 inches).
• Carrier Material: SAS recommends a soft-sided Sherpa bag. It must be leak-proof and well-ventilated.
• Behavior: The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

SAS Pet In Cabin Price & Additional Fees

The SAS Pet in Cabin Price depends on your route:

• Domestic (Nordic): Approx. $60 (50 EUR)
• Within Europe/Scandinavia: Approx. $80 (70 EUR)
• To/From USA & Asia: Approx. $115 (95 EUR)

To confirm the exact fee for your specific flight, contact +1-877-593-4887.

International & Europe Cabin Pet Rules for SAS

When flying under the SAS International Pet Policy, you must comply with the regulations of both the departure and arrival countries. For example, flights to the UK or Ireland often have stricter “Cargo-only” rules for pets.

Does SAS Allow Pets in the Baggage Hold?

If your pet is too large for the cabin, they will fall under the SAS Dog in Cargo or “Checked Baggage” category. The baggage hold is pressurized and temperature-controlled, making it a safe environment for larger animals.

SAS Pet in Hold Requirements (Crate Size, Age, Documents)

• Max Weight: Usually up to 50 kg (110 lbs) on most aircraft.
• Crate: Must be rigid (plastic or metal), not wire mesh.
• Floor: Must be covered with absorbent material (newspaper or sawdust; no hay).

SAS Pets Policy for Connecting & International Flights

For connecting flights, ensure your layover is sufficient for pet relief. If you are transiting through the EU, your pet must meet EU Pet Passport requirements.

SAS Baggage Hold Pet Fees (Short-Haul vs Long-Haul)

• Domestic: $80
• Europe: $105
• USA/Asia: $140

SAS Service Dog & Emotional Support Dog Policy

The SAS allows trained service dogs and emotional support dogs to travel with passengers, ensuring safety, comfort, and compliance with international airline regulations and documentation requirements.

Accepted Service Dogs on SAS Flights

Trained service dogs (e.g., guide dogs, hearing dogs) travel free of charge in the cabin on all SAS flights. They do not need to be in a carrier but must sit at the passenger’s feet.

SAS Emotional Support Dog Rules (Europe & USA Routes)

In alignment with global airline trends, SAS has updated its policy. For most routes, Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are now treated as standard pets and must follow the SAS Pet Policy regarding fees and carriers.

Documents Required for Service Dog Travel

• Proof of training/certification.
• Valid health certificates.
• Required permits for the destination country.

International & Europe Travel – SAS Pet Policy

SAS allows pets on international and European routes in the cabin or cargo hold, subject to country-specific entry rules, advance approval, and compliance with EU pet travel regulations and airline limits.

SAS Pet Policy International Flights to Europe

Travelers from outside the EU must ensure their pet has a Great Britain Pet Health Certificate or an EU Pet Passport.

Regional Pet Guidelines: EU, UK, Schengen & Scandinavia

Within the Schengen area, travel is relatively seamless. However, the UK remains a “Cargo-only” destination for many airlines, so always verify your specific route by calling +1-877-593-4887.

Breed Restrictions on SAS

SAS restricts or limits travel for snub-nosed dog and cat breeds due to breathing risks, especially in the cargo hold, and may require cabin travel or deny transport for safety reasons.

Snub-Nosed (Brachycephalic) Dogs and Cats Restrictions

Under the SAS Pet Policy, snub-nosed breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats) are not permitted in the baggage hold. Due to their respiratory structure, the stress and temperature changes in the hold can be fatal. They may only fly in the cabin if they meet the weight requirements.

Dangerous Dog Rules Under SAS Pet Policy

Certain “fighting” or “dangerous” breeds (e.g., Pit Bulls, Rottweilers) may require specialized, reinforced crates and are subject to stricter SAS Pet Policy Cargo regulations.

SAS Link / Regional Aircraft Pet Policy

Flights operated by SAS Connect or SAS Link may use smaller regional jets (like the CRJ-900).

• SAS Connect Pet Policy: Generally follows mainline rules, but overhead and under-seat space may be more limited.
• Hold Travel Rules: Smaller planes have smaller cargo doors. Always confirm if your large crate can fit on regional aircraft.

Cost Overview – SAS Pet In Cabin & Hold Fees

Required Pet Documents for SAS Flights

To comply with the SAS Pet in Cabin Form and international law, carry the following:

• Microchip: ISO-compliant 15-digit chip.
• Rabies Vaccination: Must be administered at least 21 days before travel.
• Pet Passport: Required for EU/EEA travel.
• Health Certificate: Required for most international non-EU flights.

How to Book Pet Travel on SAS?

To book a pet in the SAS cabin, request pet travel during booking or contact SAS Customer Service in advance, confirm availability, pay the fee, and get approval before departure.

Steps to Reserve Pet in Cabin

• Book your flight on the SAS website.
• Go to “My Bookings” or call +1-877-593-4887.
• Request “Pet in Cabin” (Subject: PETC).
• Pay the fee at the airport check-in counter.

Steps to Book Pet in Hold or Cargo

For pets in the hold (AVIH), you must call the service center as these spots are strictly limited by aircraft ventilation capacity.

What to Avoid When Flying with Pets

• Avoid Sedation: Many vets and airlines advise against sedating pets as it affects their ability to regulate body temperature.
• Avoid Heavy Meals: Feed your pet 4–6 hours before the flight to prevent motion sickness.
• Avoid Last-Minute Changes: Always confirm your pet’s spot 48 hours before departure.

Conclusion

Navigating the SAS Pet Policy is straightforward once you know the weight limits and documentation requirements. Whether you are flying domestic or international, SAS offers a reliable way to bring your pets along. Remember that space is limited, so booking early is the key to a successful trip. For expert help and to ensure your pet’s spot is secured, contact +1-877-593-4887 today.