Every year, more than two million pets and live animals travel safely by air across the United States. At Pacific Air Cargo, our customers are moving their animals between the destinations we serve Honolulu, Los Angeles, and Guam (with special arrangements). We know that your animals are more than cargo—they’re companions, family members, or valuable livestock—so their safety and comfort are our highest priority.
While Pacific Air Cargo adheres to strict federal and state regulations, as well as our own company policies, customers also play a key role in preparing their animals for a smooth and stress-free journey. Whether you’re shipping a puppy, a seasoned travel-savvy pet, or another small animal, here’s what you need to know before booking your flight.
Know the Regulations Before You Ship
Live animal transport is carefully regulated to protect the well-being of every animal in transit. These guidelines come from a combination of:
Understanding these rules ensures that your pet experiences a journey that is not only safe—but fully compliant.
Age & Weaning Requirements
To safeguard young animals:
This helps ensure they are strong, healthy, and ready for any potential stress of transit.
Kennel & Container Standards
The kennel is one of the most important components of safe animal transport. Pacific Air Cargo follows industry standards that ensure every container supports the well-being of the animal inside.
Your kennel must be IATA approved and meet the minimum criteria for:
How many animals per kennel?
Sizing rule of thumb:
Your animal must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without touching the top in a way that causes slouching or discomfort. If in doubt—size up.
Check-In Timing: Be Right on Time
To reduce stress and ensure safe handling:
Arriving too early creates unnecessary stress on the animal—timing matters.
Feeding & Hydration Requirements
Do not give your pet solid food in the six hours prior to the flight, although a moderate amount of water and a walk before and after the flight is advised.
Food and water access are essential, particularly for young or older animals.
If the transport will be longer than PAC’s trans-Pacific flights, food and water may be necessary.
For puppies or kittens under 16 weeks:
For older animals:
Important: Written feeding and watering instructions must accompany all live animal shipments, even if the flight is short.
Temperature Restrictions
Animal safety is directly tied to environmental conditions.
This ensures your pet can safely tolerate the climates they may encounter during their journey.
Payment Requirements
For safety and traceability reasons:
Pacific Air Cargo, Your Partner in Safe and Compassionate Transport
Shipping a live animal requires preparation, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Pacific Air Cargo provides guidance, support, and experienced handlers committed to the welfare of your animal from drop-off to arrival.
If you have questions about kennels, paperwork, special accommodations, or booking details, our team is here to help every step of the way.
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