Turkish Airlines Pet Policy, Fees & Full Guide
Turkish Airlines permits the transport of household pets such as dogs, cats, and certain birds on flights within Turkey and most international routes. More exotic pets like reptiles, rodents, and fish are restricted from traveling in the passenger cabin but may be permissible as checked cargo.
For any pet to be allowed onboard, passengers must comply with all regulations regarding carrier specifications, health/vaccination certificates, travel documentation, and country-specific import restrictions. Turkish Airlines recommends checking eligibility a minimum of 2 weeks before desired travel dates.
Turkish Airlines Pet: Fares and Fees
A standard pet transportation fee applies for transporting pets in the aircraft cabin with the owner. As of 2023, domestic flights within Turkey incur a USD 35 pet fee while international flights are charged at USD 100.
If combined with an international itinerary, domestic connections within Turkey will also be charged at the higher USD 100 international pet fee rate. Any pets traveling as manifested cargo also incur fees that vary based on weight/dimensions.
Carrier Guidelines and Limitations
All pet animals must be transported in properly secured, IATA-compliant carriers for the duration of travel. Specific requirements exist regarding carrier construction, water/food bowls, interior dimensions based on pet size, absorbent lining, etc.
For most cats and small dogs, approved carriers can be stowed under passenger seats in the cabin during the flight once the animal is secured inside. A maximum of 2 pets are allowed per flight in a cabin when meeting size thresholds. Larger dogs may require transport as cargo instead.
Vaccination and Health Policies
In line with international veterinary guidance for safe animal transport, Turkish Airlines mandates up-to-date vaccination records for common infectious diseases like rabies, parvovirus, distemper and more based on species.
Health certificates confirming parasite treatments and clean bills of health are also required from licensed veterinarians within 10 days of travel. Pets demonstrating symptoms of illness may be denied boarding at the discretion of Turkish Airlines staff.
Country-Specific Restrictions
Apart from Turkish Airline's health requirements for animal passengers, significant restrictions apply based on destination country regulations. Most countries forbid the import of certain "snub-nosed" dog and cat breeds like pugs or Persians either fully or seasonally due to respiratory sensitivity risks.
Many countries also enforce quarantine periods from 10-30+ days for pets upon arrival before release. Such restrictions must be accounted for in travel planning, as Turkish Airlines plays no role but rather enforces these destination-based government mandates.
The Bottom Line
With proper carrier compliance, health certificates, boarding passes, documentation, vaccinations, and consideration of regional pet import rules - passengers can travel internationally with pets on Turkish Airlines. Yet restrictions vary extensively depending on animal type, destination, and temporary bans for short-nosed breeds. Significant planning is needed - travelers cannot simply show up with their pets for departure.
By following airline guidance and government policies, pet owners can maintain compliance and feel confident that Turkish Airlines offers a viable option to transport their beloved companions globally to 12+ international destinations from the airline's Istanbul hub. Yet flexibility is also required to adjust if certain destination rules prohibit pet entry or require lengthy quarantines before release. Maintaining communication and proactively planning will result in the best experience for owner and pet alike when traversing the world by air.