Virgin Australia pets in cabin fares are on sale now - Travel News

Sep 17, 2025

Cancel the dog sitter.

From today, Aussie pet owners can book the Virgin Australia Pets in Cabin service, a first for any Australian carrier. The fur-baby-friendly service will initially be available on flights between Melbourne and the Gold Coast and Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast. The first-ever Pets in Cabin flights will depart Melbourne Airport on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

Eligible pets can travel for an introductory price of $149 per animal, per flight. The service will initially commence as a trial until 30 January 2026 before expanding to all eligible Virgin Australia domestic flights next year.

So what kind of pets can travel? Small dogs or cats only. There is a limit of four pets weighing under 8kgs (combined with the carrier) that will be permitted on each eligible flight. And only one pet per guest is allowed. Cats will not initially be permitted on flights between Melbourne and the Gold Coast.

Virgin Australia to welcome pets on domestic flights.

Pets must travel in an approved soft-sided leak-proof carrier measuring no more than 44 centimetres (L) x 26 centimetres (W) x 28 centimetres (H). The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 8 kilograms. Absorbent mats must be placed inside the carrier when travelling. Suitable carriers are available for purchase from leading pet supply retailers.

Passengers travelling with pets will be seated in window seats in two designated rows only (seats 18A and 18F and 20A and 20F). Pets will not be permitted to be stowed under any other seat on the aircraft.

Virgin Australia Pets in Cabin seats. — Virgin Australia Pets in Cabin seats

And while it may be tempting to want to cuddle your beloved fur baby midflight, pets are not permitted outside of the carrier at any time whilst onboard the aircraft. Pets will also not be allowed inside Virgin Australia lounges.

There are special health and safety requirements for each pet to meet, so be sure to check the Virgin Australia website to ensure your pet meets the requirements before securing a ticket for you and your four-legged friend.