The short answer
Air Canada accepts dogs and cats in the cabin, up to 10 kg including the carrier, in a soft bag of about 55 × 40 × 27 cm. Cats are accepted on the same terms. The cabin option applies on long-haul routes too. The fee starts around CA$130.
Air Canada accepts small pets in the cabin up to 10 kilograms combined weight and books larger animals into the hold as checked baggage, with cargo available for pets outside those limits. Its hubs in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver support connections across North America and onward international routes.
Carrier and crate
Breed and temperature
Snub-nosed breed rules vary by route and season. Confirm for your specific flight.
Booking the pet slot
Reserve the pet by phone at least 24 hours before departure; Air Canada limits cabin animals per flight and applies heat embargoes in summer.
Routes flown by Air Canada
Frequently asked questions
Does Air Canada allow pets in the cabin?
Air Canada accepts dogs and cats in the cabin, up to 10 kg including the carrier, in a soft bag of about 55 × 40 × 27 cm. Cats are accepted on the same terms. The cabin option applies on long-haul routes too. The fee starts around CA$130.
How heavy can a pet be to fly in the Air Canada cabin?
Up to 10 kg including the carrier. Above that your pet travels in the hold or as manifest cargo.
What size carrier does Air Canada allow in the cabin?
Roughly 55 × 40 × 27 cm, measured at the widest points. Soft carriers are expected so the bag can compress under the seat.
How much does Air Canada charge for a pet?
From about CA$130 each way, varying by route and cabin.
Comparing carriers for a route?
Airline pet rules stack on top of the destination rules. Check both before you book.