ITA Airways welcomes large pets to the cabin

ITA Airways takes another step towards travel and animal lovers. Based on the regulatory changes recently introduced by ENAC, the Company will offer cabin transport services for pets up to 30 kg on “Large Pet Friendly” domestic scheduled flights.

Policy Change:
Pets up to 30 kg can now travel in the cabin on domestic scheduled flights.

Regulatory Basis:
Enabled by recent changes from ENAC (Italian Civil Aviation Authority).

Demonstration Flight:
In September 2025, two large dogs successfully flew in the cabin from Milan Linate to Rome Fiumicino without carriers.

Launch Timeline:
Service will be available for booking during the IATA summer season 2026, meaning passengers can plan trips with their pets starting spring/summer 2026.

CEO Statement:
Joerg Eberhart emphasized inclusivity, safety, and listening to passenger needs: “Pets are part of the family: we want every journey to start and end together, without separation.”

Background
- ITA Airways had already expanded cabin pet weight limits in June 2024 (from 8 kg to 10 kg + 2 kg carrier).
- The airline is majority-owned by Italy’s Ministry of Economy and Finance (59%), with Lufthansa (41%) as a strategic partner.
- Strong focus on digitization, customer service, and sustainability (modern fleet, employee well-being, community engagement).

This move positions ITA Airways as one of the most pet-inclusive carriers in Europe, potentially setting a new standard for passenger experience.