Guide About Pet Travel With Singapore Airlines And AirAsia

Increasingly, more people in Asia are opting to fly with their pets. If you’re planning a short trip from Tokyo or another regional city, you’ll want to ensure your pet can travel safely. The first step is to check each airline’s rules. Singapore Airlines has a clear process for pet travel, but AirAsia generally does not allow pets. Comparing their policies can help you determine which one works best for your trip.

Comparison of Pet Carrier Size Limits, Fees, and In‑Cabin Policies

Singapore Airlines

• In‑cabin: pets are not permitted in the cabin. Only trained assistance dogs may travel in the cabin when specific conditions are met.
• Checked baggage: cats and dogs can travel as checked baggage on many routes. If the combined weight of the pet and the container exceeds 32 kg, you must book via cargo. Charges are separate from your free baggage allowance and are calculated by weight on most routes.
• Carrier sizing: kennel height limits vary by aircraft (for example, A350 up to 70 cm; A380 up to 60 cm; B777 up to 101 cm; B787 up to 111 cm).
• Operational limits: pets are not accepted on Boeing 737‑operated flights due to the lack of temperature control in the hold. Pets are also not accepted on ultra long‑haul SQ21 and SQ23; SQ25 is the New York option that accepts pets.

AirAsia

• In‑cabin: pets are not accepted. Service animals may be accepted on selected flights, subject to conditions and advance notice.
• Checked baggage: no option for pets as checked baggage on AirAsia passenger services.
• Cargo: AirAsia does not offer a passenger pet‑cargo service; some affiliated cargo operations publish varying live‑animal rules by operating airline and route, so AirAsia is generally not a practical choice for relocating pets.
  
  

Pet Travel with Singapore Airlines

On many Singapore Airlines flights, pets can travel as checked baggage if they are at least three months old and meet the airline’s species and breed requirements. You should contact the airline at least two weeks before your flight with details about your pet and its container, such as size, weight, breed, and age. If the combined weight of your pet and its container is over 32 kg, you’ll need to book through a pet agent as cargo. Pet travel fees are separate from your regular baggage allowance. For flights to and from the USA, fees are based on the number of pieces, not weight.

Some flights have special rules. Pets are not allowed on Singapore Airlines flights using Boeing 737 aircraft because the cargo hold does not have temperature control. Pets are also not allowed to travel on SQ21 (Newark to Singapore) or SQ23 (New York to Singapore). If you need to fly from New York with your pet, choose SQ25.

Your pet’s kennel must follow IATA Live Animals Regulations and be large enough for your animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The maximum kennel height varies depending on the type of aircraft, so please check your flight details against the airline’s size limits for each plane model.

The documents you need depend on where you are flying from, through, and to. Typically, you’ll need to obtain export or import permits, a health certificate from your veterinarian, and vaccination records at check-in. If you’re leaving from or passing through Singapore, make sure to follow local AVS licensing and quarantine rules. Arrive at least two hours before your flight (three hours if flying from the USA) and be prepared to complete an indemnity form at the counter.

Singapore Airlines only allows assistance dogs in the cabin. These dogs must be at least four months old, trained to help someone with a disability, and the airline must be notified at least 48 hours before your flight. There are also rules about where the dog can sit and how it must be restrained. Some breeds may need extra paperwork.

Pet travel with AirAsia

AirAsia does not allow pets on board, whether in the cabin or as checked baggage. Service animals might be accepted on some flights, but this is not guaranteed for every route or operator. Always check the policy for your specific flight before booking.

AirAsia does not offer a way for passengers to book pets as cargo. Some partner cargo companies have their own rules for live animals, but these are limited and not designed for regular travellers. If you need to move a pet and plan to fly with AirAsia, it’s best to book your pet’s travel with another airline that has clear pet services.

What to ask before booking a pet‑friendly flight

• What is the exact policy for my route and aircraft type, including any seasonal or heat restrictions?
• What are the weight and size limits for the pet plus carrier, and are there aircraft‑specific kennel height caps?
• How are fees calculated for pets, and are there additional handling charges on transit?
• Which documents are required at origin, transit and destination, and how far in advance must they be submitted?
• What are the rules for assistance dogs on my flight, including notice periods and seating restrictions?

How to prepare your pet for a smooth flight

• Acclimatise your pet to the kennel weeks in advance. Place the animal inside for short periods with the door closed, then reward calm behaviour.
• Line the kennel with a familiar blanket and absorbent material. Remove the leash before loading.
• Offer a light meal and a little water about two hours before check‑in, and walk your pet before you leave for the airport.
• Avoid sedatives or tranquillisers unless your vet advises otherwise for a specific medical reason.
  
  

Pet‑Friendly Accommodation in Singapore After the Flight

Having a calm, pet-friendly place to stay can make your first nights in Singapore much smoother. Serviced apartments offer space for your pet’s carrier, feeding area, and a routine that works for both of you. Select a property with pet-friendly rooms, clearly defined rules, designated waste disposal areas, and nearby green spaces.

Stay at Oakwood Studios Singapore for a Pet‑Friendly Experience.

Oakwood Studios Singapore offers spacious serviced apartments near Orchard Road, making it easy to set up a comfortable space for your pet. The central location means parks, restaurants, and shops are nearby, and the quiet apartments help your pet settle in after a flight. 

Book your Pet‑Friendly Stay at Citadines Balestier Singapore

Citadines Balestier Singapore is also an excellent option for pet owners. The apartments have space for your pet’s bed and bowls, and the area has easy access to local parks for daily walks. The family-friendly environment, featuring a playground and water play area, is ideal for travelling with both kids and pets. 

If you want perks like early check-in, late check-out, or possible room upgrades, book through Ascott Star Rewards. For special rates and extra travel comfort: Sign Up Here.