8 kg (cabin, dog + carrier combined)
Airline dog policy
TAP Air Portugal
TAP Air Portugal stands out for its remarkably low pet travel fees — among the cheapest of any full-service European carrier. The airline allows dogs in the cabin on most routes and offers checked baggage and cargo options for larger animals. Based at Lisbon (LIS), TAP provides excellent connectivity between Europe, Brazil, and Africa (particularly Portuguese-speaking African countries like Angola and Mozambique), making it a strategic choice for pet owners on these routes.
Book early and confirm aircraft acceptance.
Under-seat dimensions can vary by aircraft.
Fees can change by region and currency.
Booking tip
TAP's cabin pet fee starts at just €35 for domestic Portuguese flights, rising to €80 for European routes and €150–€200 for intercontinental travel. This makes TAP significantly cheaper than competitors like Air France (€200 for long-haul) or Lufthansa (similar routes). Book your pet by calling TAP's customer service at least 48 hours before departure. Only one pet per passenger in the cabin, and soft-sided carriers are required.
Why it can work
TAP is the best-value option for pet travel between Europe and Brazil. The airline operates multiple daily flights between Lisbon and São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and other Brazilian cities. For dog owners relocating between Portugal/Europe and Brazil, TAP offers by far the most affordable and direct routing. Lisbon airport is modern and manageable, and TAP's ground staff handle pet passengers routinely. The airline's connectivity to former Portuguese colonies in Africa is also unmatched.
Restrictions
Brachycephalic breeds are restricted from hold travel. Pets cannot fly in the cabin to destinations requiring cargo-only import. Maximum one pet per passenger in the cabin. Pets must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic and 16 weeks for international flights. TAP Express and codeshare flights may have different pet policies — always check the operating carrier.
Dog-owner notes
Portugal follows EU pet regulations: EU Pet Passport with microchip and rabies vaccination for intra-EU travel, or veterinary health certificate for arrivals from outside the EU. For Brazilian routes, remember that Brazil requires consular legalisation of the health certificate — plan extra time for this step. TAP customer service: +351 211 234 400.
Final check before paying
Confirm the exact aircraft, route, dog breed, carrier size, temperature rules and destination import law directly with the airline. A country can allow dogs while a specific airline or aircraft refuses them.