Virgin America Pet Policy - The Ultimate Pet Travel Guide

If you would love to know what the Virgin America Pet Policy is all about, then, you have undoubtedly clicked on the right page. In this article, you will learn about the Virgin America Pet Policy plus answers to frequently asked questions about traveling with pets on Virgin America Airlines.

Virgin America was a United States-based airline that allows passengers to travel with their pets only in the cabin. However, as of 2018, this airline joined Alaska Airlines. Today, they operate entirely under the Alaska Airlines brand and make use of the Alaska pet policies.

Nevertheless, in this article, we will take a look at the former Virgin America pet policy. Note that this article is solely for educational purposes and for reference’s sake as this policy no longer exists.

Below are the previous policies of this pet-friendly airline.

Table of Contents

Virgin America In-Cabin Pet Policy.

Virgin America welcomes cats and dogs in the main cabin of the airplane. If your pet is tiny enough to fit and stay comfortably in a container under the seat in front of you, Virgin America will allow them to fly with you in the cabin.

Pets are expected to remain in their carriers under the seat in your front throughout the flight. Furthermore, you will be charged a service fee of $100 for each pet in the cabin on a Virgin America flight.

Passengers traveling with pets will not seat in the Main Cabin Select seats (either exit row or row 3) or the First Class cabin.

Furthermore, on connections with Interline partners, pets are not allowed.

Other Requirements for in-cabin pets

Basically, your kittens and puppies must be at least 8 weeks old for them to fly. Also, your Pets must travel on the same flights as the traveler that is responsible for them.

There is no limit on the number of pets in the cabin on a particular flight. However, the combined weight of your pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds.

Also, keep in mind that Virgin America does not sell or rent pet carriers. Invariably, your pet and carrier will count as your one personal item.

Carrier Guidelines for Pets traveling in the cabin.

If you are traveling with your pet on the Virgin America Airline, you must follow these rules;

Carrier dimensions must not exceed 18″ L × 15″ W × 8″ H.
Furthermore, every passenger should provide a carrier for their pet.
Only one pet is allowed in a carrier and one pet carrier per purchased seat.
Your pet’s carrier must fit directly under the seat in front of you.
A soft-sided carrier is recommended.
The carrier should be able to let your pet turn around and lie down in a normal position.
In addition, your carrier should be tall enough to provide enough room for your pet to stand and sit without its head and ears touching the top.
Additionally, your pet’s carrier must have proper ventilation.
It should also have a floor designed to absorb and retain solids or liquids.
No part of the pet is expected to extrude or pop out of the carrier.
Above all, pets must stay enclosed in their carriers while onboard and in the airport terminal.

Virgin America Pet Policy — Image by master1305 on Freepik

Virgin America Checked Baggage Pet Policy.

Virgin America does not accept pets as checked baggage.

Virgin America Manifest (Air) Cargo Policy.

Virgin America does not also transport pets as cargo.

Service Animals on Virgin America

Animals that are specially trained to help people with impairments and disabilities are known as Service animals. If you have a disability, be rest assured you can travel with your service animal on Virgin America. Moreover, you do not have to bother about incurring additional fees for your service animal. Because your service animal will not be charged any fee.

In addition, they are allowed to ride in the aircraft cabin so long as they do not obstruct an aisle or any other space for emergency evacuation. Other than that service animals are allowed to accompany disabled individuals with a disability in any seat.

Your service animals are not required to be in a pet carrier. However, passengers are not allowed to travel with service animals that pose threats to the public. Animals such as snakes, other reptiles, rodents, and spiders will not be permitted.

Key points to note to Ensure your Pet Travels Safely with Virgin America

Your animal’s comfort and safety during the journey are of utmost priority to Virgin America Airlines. Therefore, to guarantee that your pet travels safely, these key points should be noted.

#1. Ensure your pet is up to the required age.

Before traveling, your pet must be at least eight weeks old and properly weaned, according to the USDA.

#2. Make sure your pet is comfortable in the carrier.

It is good for your animal to become acquainted with their container before traveling. This helps them to be less stressed during the journey.

Nevertheless, ensure you provide them with the right carrier for a safe and comfortable trip.

#3. It is important to check if your pet is healthy enough for the flight.

The health of your pet is paramount to its traveling. Therefore always ensure your pet is in its optimal health before embarking on a journey.

Conclusion

If you read to this point a big thumbs up to you. Now you know the previous Virgin America Pet Policy.

Nevertheless bear in mind that they have joined Alaska airlines and will work based on their policies. You can check out our article on Alaska airline’s pet policy for more information.

Traveling with your pet is a big responsibility and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Therefore always ensure your pet is safe and comfortable as you are on any journey.

Frequently Asked Questions about Virgin America Pet Policy

#1. Can my pet travel on Virgin?

Virgin Atlantic only accept cats and dogs on their flights and the dog must not be one that is listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

#2. What methods of transport does Virgin America provide for my pets?

You can only travel with your cats and dogs in the main cabin of the aircraft as pets ‘checked as baggage’ are not accepted.

#3. What are the kennel requirements for Virgin America?

The kennel must be specifically made for animal carriage and not exceed 18 x 15 x 8 inches or 45 x 38 x 20 centimeters. It must also be leak and escape-proof so that the pet does not break out.

The pet carrier must provide enough ventilation for the pet without any sides of the container protruding outside.

Also, it should provide enough room for the animal to stand and turn around and also contain absorbent material or litter inside to soak up any liquid like pee.

#4. Can my dog sit on my lap during a flight?

No. You cannot sit with your pets on your lap during a flight. You must make sure that the pet stays in its carrier and is stored under the seat in front of you throughout the journey.

#5. How much does Virgin America charge to transport pets?

Virgin America Airlines charge a $100 pet fee for each way of the trip and you can call the airline to pay and make a reservation for your pet or you pay when you arrive at the airport, at the check-in counter.