Being the first airline in Australia to provide this service, Virgin Airlines has declared intentions to allow dogs in the cabins of its aircraft. Following a 2021 poll, which found that 85% of respondents supported pet travel, 57% said they would fly more often if they could bring their dogs.

CEO Jayne Hrdlicka praised the effort and said the airline is dedicated to granting guests’ requests to fly with their dogs. Small dogs and cats are now permitted in the cabin if they can fit in an authorized container beneath the seat in front of the passenger. Assistance animals will continue be permitted to travel for free.

Virgin Airlines will put in place stringent regulations and safety precautions to allay fears about allergies and guarantee the least possible effect on travelers without pets. Though the airline plans to introduce the service within the next year, the precise cost for pet carrying has not yet been revealed.