In collaboration wiht Responsibility Free Global, we proudly present our long-standing feature that highlights significant events, launches, and campaigns within the global aviation and travel retail industry.
A Milestone in Pet-Friendly Air Travel
This edition of our featured images comes from Italy, where ITA Airways has set tails wagging by allowing two large dogs to board without the need for kennels.
The flight journeyed from Milan Linate to Rome Fiumicino with it’s four-legged passengers—Honey and Moka—traveling comfortably alongside their owners. Moka, a Chocolate Labrador, enjoyed her seat in the front row while mixed-breed Honey was delighted to be at the back of the plane, marking an important milestone for pet-friendly air travel.
New Regulations Enhance Pet Travel Options
This initiative is part of new regulations introduced by ENAC (the italian civil Aviation Authority) at the request of the ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. These rules establish operational guidelines that allow passengers to bring medium and large pets into the cabin during flights.
Expanding space for pets on Flights
In June 2024, ITA Airways became Italy’s first airline to increase onboard space allocated for pets by 25% on domestic routes while also raising weight limits from 8kg to 10kg for traveling animals.
A Collaborative Effort Towards Inclusivity
The demonstration flight was attended by notable figures including Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, ITA Airways Chairman Sandro Pappalardo, and ENAC Chairman Pierluigi Di Palma. their presence highlighted a collective commitment towards making air travel more inclusive for all passengers—whether thay walk on two legs or four.
“We are immensely proud to have executed this demonstration flight which positions us as leaders among European airlines,” stated Sandro Pappalardo. He expressed gratitude towards his team’s dedication toward innovation within aviation services.
A Cultural Shift in Air Travel Norms
“This initiative transcends mere commercial opportunity or operational adjustment; it represents a cultural change centered around respect, care, and inclusivity,” emphasized Pappalardo further explaining plans aimed at gradually allowing ticket purchases for pets exceeding current weight restrictions through ongoing collaborations with institutions like ENAC.
“Today we have shown how forward-thinking italian Civil Aviation Authority is regarding both transport methods as well as societal values,” added Pierluigi Di Palma from ENAC during discussions about future initiatives aimed at enhancing passenger experiences alongside their beloved animals.< / p >
< fig caption id =" caption – attachment _ 456451 "> < span > < strong >Moka & Honey traveled comfortably alongside their owners on this historic Milan Linate–Rome Fiumicino route.< / strong >
Looking Ahead: A Global Example of Pet-Friendly Policies
< p >“At tomorrow’s ICAO Current Meeting in Montreal , I will present these initiatives along with Deputy Minister Edoardo Rixi & CEO Joerg Eberhart,” announced Di Palma , emphasizing how these steps could serve as an international model ensuring global adoption of pet-friendly practices across airlines worldwide.”
< p >Vincenzo Nunziata , chairman of Aeroporti di Roma (ADR), remarked: “We wholeheartedly support this groundbreaking initiative led by ENAC together with ITA Airlines—a long-awaited advancement welcomed by countless travelers who consider their pets family members.”
< p >“At Rome Fiumicino Airport , we’ve established four dedicated Pet Areas designed specifically so that our furry friends can enjoy agreeable waiting times before boarding flights! additionally as last May we’ve opened Dog Relais—the first facility dedicated solely towards caring & wellbeing needs specifically tailored just for pets within any airport throughout Europe!” ✈