Varies (cargo, IATA crate required)
Airline dog policy
Thai Airways
Thai Airways, Thailand's national carrier, does not accept pets in the passenger cabin on any flight. All animals must travel as cargo in the pressurised hold. This is worth noting for pet owners visiting or relocating to Thailand, as many assume the national airline would offer cabin pet transport. Thai Airways' cargo division handles live animal transport on both domestic Thai routes and international services from its Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) hub.
Book early and confirm aircraft acceptance.
Under-seat dimensions can vary by aircraft.
Fees can change by region and currency.
Booking tip
Thailand's pet import rules changed significantly in recent years. As of 2025, Thailand operates under a medical-only cannabis framework and separate pet import rules requiring a valid health certificate, rabies vaccination, import permit from the Department of Livestock Development (DLD), and microchip. Contact the DLD well in advance. Thai Airways Cargo requires all documentation to be pre-approved before accepting a live animal shipment.
Why it can work
Thai Airways' cargo service is experienced in handling live animals across its Southeast Asian and intercontinental network. The airline operates modern Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner aircraft with excellent cargo hold conditions. Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport is a major Asian hub with connections throughout Asia, Europe, and Australasia, making it a key transit point for international pet relocations. Thai Cargo's dedicated live animal handling team ensures proper care during transit.
Restrictions
No cabin pets on any flight. Cargo only. Brachycephalic breeds face restrictions due to heat and breathing concerns — particularly important given Bangkok's tropical climate. Temperature embargoes may apply during extreme heat months (March–May). All pets require import permits from the Thai DLD. Certain species may be restricted under CITES regulations.
Dog-owner notes
Thai Airways is a member of the Star Alliance. The airline's main hub is Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK). Thai Cargo handles all live animal logistics — contact them directly for rates and booking. Phone: +66 2 356 1111. For pets entering Thailand, the Department of Livestock Development (DLD) issues import permits: +66 2 501 3473. Budget carriers like AirAsia and Bangkok Airways also serve Thailand but have their own (often more restrictive) pet policies.
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.