What the European Court of Justice’s New Ruling Really Means for Travelling Pets
If you’ve ever tried to fly with your dog, you’ll know it’s rarely as simple as popping them in the car and heading off for a weekend away. Between pet passports, airline rules, crate sizes and eye-watering fees, getting your furry friend from A to B already feels like a full-time job.
Now there’s a new twist in the tale. This week, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled that pets on flights can be legally classed as “baggage.”
Yes, you read that right. Our beloved four-legged companions have just been lumped in with the suitcases.
So what does that actually mean?
In legal terms, it’s all about how airlines handle compensation, liability and passenger rights. By classifying pets as baggage, the ECJ has made it clear that, at least under EU law, airlines aren’t required to treat pets as passengers.
That affects things like:
- Compensation: If something goes wrong (like a delay, cancellation or loss of the animal), the airline’s liability could fall under baggage regulations, which have much lower compensation caps.
- Cost: Airlines may now price pet transport more like checked luggage though that could go either way depending on the carrier.
- Regulation: Pets might be handled under freight or cargo guidelines instead of passenger-based welfare protections, depending on how each airline interprets the ruling.
Why dog owners should care
For anyone travelling between the UK and Europe, this could shift the way airlines charge for and manage pets in the cabin or hold. Some may tighten restrictions, while others could simplify the process (and potentially cut costs).
It’s also a wake-up call to double-check your travel insurance. If pets are legally baggage, they might not be covered under your usual trip policy.
A bone to chew on
Let’s be honest, most of us don’t see our dogs as luggage. They’re family. But the courts aren’t exactly known for sentiment. This ruling might sound heartless, yet it could streamline future pet travel rules and bring consistency across airlines.
For now, if you’re planning a holiday to France with your pooch or a move to Spain with your spaniel:
- Read the airline’s pet policy fine print (it’s dull, but vital).
- Insure your pet separately for travel.
- Keep all documents, microchip info and proof of vaccinations handy.
The bottom line
The ECJ’s decision might make your dog technically baggage — but to you (and me), they’ll always be the most precious cargo on board.