Best pet carriers/crates to use for international flight?

[Ally]

We're taking our cat on the plane with us to Denmark from the USA, and I've seen people using those soft carry cases so they can fit under the airplane seats. We're flying on Lufthansa, and they just specify the maximum dimensions, but not about fitting it under the seat..

Should we get one of those for our cat for the flight? She currently has a plastic one that meets IATA standards (used it for international flight before) - but not sure if it'll be ok coming on board this time.

Is something like this ok? www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12752493&f=PAD%2FpsNotAvailInU S%2FNo

Thanks!

[admin]

Re: Best pet carriers/crates to use for international flight?

We have the same bag in our store for less cost: http://www.pettravelstore.com/products/Pet-Carrier-Sherpa-Original-Deluxe.html The size of the bag is 20"L 11.5"H 11.7"W. Oftentimes, international flights will use larger planes and there will be more room under the seat in front of you. This bag is 20" long which may or may not be problematic with Lufthansa. Also, I should mention that the screening is not as reinforced as other carriers. This may be important if your cat will use their claws at all on the screens. This is an excellent carrier for cats and affords extra height which will "squish" down to get the carrier under the seat: http://www.pettravelstore.com/products/Pet-Carrier-SturdiBag.html

Whatever you decide, I would suggest that you call Lufthansa, tell them your flight number and ask how much room will be under the seat in front of you. They will look up the plane and be able to tell you. The important thing is not to exceed the width and have the majority of the bag fit under the seat. If an inch or so is exposed, you will probably not have a problem. Also ask them the weight limitation for your pet plus the carrier. This can be important to the airlines.
Susan

[Natacha]

Re: Best pet carriers/crates to use for international flight?

With all airlines, for takeoff & landing your pet have to be under the seat in front of you.
All plastic containers (event the smallest ones matching IATA standards) are too big to fit under the seat.
For cat or dog, you can have a soft carry cases but need to check the size condition of the airline you are flying with and the aircraft as it may differt a little bit.
good luck,
Natacha