What Makes a Pet Carrier Acceptable for In-Cabin Pet Travel by Airlines?

Looking for the best in-cabin pet carrier for air travel?

At PadsPass, we know how overwhelming it can be to choose the right one - especially when airline rules vary and your pet’s comfort is on the line. After more than 100 flights with our furbabies, we’ve learned what makes a pet carrier truly flight-ready: comfort, compliance, and peace of mind.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know  —whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned pet parent planning your next trip.

What Makes a Pet Carrier Airline-Approved?

Not all pet carriers are created equal, especially when it comes to flying. At PadsPass, we know firsthand that there’s no room for guessing if you want a successful trip.

To be approved for in-cabin travel, your pet carrier needs to meet both your airline’s specific guidelines and a few universal standards designed to keep your pet safe and comfortable throughout the flight. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) lays out the global benchmarks, covering everything from ventilation and sizing to secure closures and floor protection.

At a minimum, most airlines expect carriers to:

• Fit under the seat in front of you. Typical maximum dimensions are around 18" × 11" × 11" but they can vary by airline and aircraft.

• Be leak-proof and well-ventilated, with mesh panels on at least two sides

• Securely close, so your pet can’t escape or get paws caught in zippers. Meow!

• Allow your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally while inside.

  
  

These requirements apply whether you’re traveling with a small dog, a kitten, or a seasoned jet-setting cat. Soft-sided carriers are often preferred for in-cabin use because they’re more flexible and easier to stow but they still need to hold their shape and provide enough space for your pet to feel at ease.

If you’re unsure about your airline’s rules, always check their pet policy directly - before you fly. At PadsPass, we’ve learned that even a well-intentioned mistake - like choosing a carrier that’s an inch too tall - can lead to last-minute stress or denied boarding.

Roverlund is our go-to carrier, use code PETPASSPORTNOV25 for a discount. We chose it not just for style, but because it checks every box for in-cabin compliance, and it keeps our pets comfortable from takeoff to landing.

Why the Right Carrier Matters

Comfort is everything when your furball is spending hours in confinement. Our vet, Dr Mariam Ferrer - a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the British Veterinary Association - always reminds us that the best carriers allow pets to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally. It’s one of the simplest ways to reduce stress during travel.

Soft-sided carriers that have a leakproof, padded flooring are best. They elevate comfort and handle any “mess” that happens during travel.

If a carrier is too small, poorly ventilated, or just plain uncomfortable, your companion pawssenger could become anxious, overheated, or even physically unwell.

And of course, if the carrier doesn’t meet airline requirements, you might not even make it past check-in.

Other Features to Look For

Meeting airline-approved dimensions and ventilation and space requirements are a great start but accidents happen under stress. It’s a bonus if the carrier is machine-washable or easy to wipe clean.

Choose carriers made from durable, non-toxic materials - soft nylon, sturdy plastic, or lightweight metal frames - since they must endure heavy handling and frequent use.

Also important: no one wants a mid-flight escape. Look for carriers with sturdy zippers, reinforced seams, and locks or clips that stay closed even if your pet pushes or paws at them.

During TSA screening, pets are briefly removed while carriers pass through X‑rays; a compliant, easy-to-open carrier makes this process smoother and less stressful for everyone

Finally, make sure it is easy to carry - for you! Features like padded shoulder straps and handles, luggage sleeves, and exterior pockets make it easier to juggle boarding passes, any medications, snacks, water bottle, and a very important pawssenger.