My human flies with me, right?
Yes, we recognize that you are most comfortable with your human (and you need scratches). Each BARK Air ticket covers one dog and one human (or two dogs if the combined weight is less than 50lbs). Additional tickets are available for purchase.
If your human cannot travel with you, we are happy to support your travel plans with our dedicated chaperone services for an additional fee.
What if I want to bring more than one human?
Each ticket purchased is for one dog and one human (or two dogs if the combined weight is less than 50lbs). Please have your human reach out to us to discuss adding another human, which we can sometimes accommodate with an additional ticket based on availability.
What can we bring on board? Are there luggage limitations?
Isn’t bringing you enough? Humans are so needy. Due to limited cabin and cargo space, we kindly ask that your human bring essential in-flight items in a small carry-on. Additionally, each human is allowed one 50lb wheeled luggage and a small duffle bag, which will both be stowed during travel.
We have plenty of blankets, treats and toys on board. If there’s something special you need, feel free to have your human bring it.
How do boarding order and seating assignments work?
Your boarding order and seating arrangement will be determined based on the dog dynamics of each flight. We consider factors such as dog size, temperament, and social preferences to ensure a comfortable experience for all. Our aircrafts feature dog-friendly cabin layouts designed with comfort in mind. While dogs do not have assigned seats, you are welcome to settle comfortably by your human's side on the cabin floor. This creates a safe, social, and cozy environment for everyone on board. If your human prefers you have your own space on a passenger seat, they are welcome to book an additional ticket.
Do we have to go through security like on a commercial flight?
One of the perks when flying BARK Air is expedited screening and security—without the crowded terminal.
Our security process is quick and convenient. Travelers should arrive at the terminal 60 minutes prior to their flight. The check-in and security screening process is completed in minutes, and we’ll have a private waiting area for you on the other side. The early arrival gives you time to socialize and make friends with the other dogs to avoid any unnecessary first-meet tension on the flight.
How do you ensure the safety of your passengers?
Our charter partner's operating procedures meet or exceed all safety and quality standards set forth by the FAA and D.O.T. They are IS-BAO Stage II certified and hold the highest safety rating of ARG/US Platinum.
In addition, our BARK Air crew is fully trained and dedicated to provide pups and human passengers a safe and comfortable flight experience. To ensure this, we reserve the right to refuse the boarding of any passenger (human or dog) that demonstrates behaviors that pose a potential safety risk to staff or fellow passengers.
Will there be separate areas for large and small dogs?
We want to make sure everyone is comfortable. If you are triggered by one size or another, be sure to have your human mention it during your intake process with your BARK Air Concierge, so they can manage the best cabin seating plan.
Are carriers or crates required?
For humans, maybe. For dogs, definitely not.
If you’re more comfortable in a carrier, you are welcome to bring one but we do not allow crates in the cabin. Foldable crates may be stowed away based on capacity. If it's alright with your human, you’ll be able to sit on laps, the floor, or wherever you’re most comfortable.
If you think you can fly the plane, we’ll talk to the pilot and see what we can do.
What about leashes?
Ugh, the L-word. Much like seat belt rules on any standard flight, we must remain on leash, particularly while on the tarmac, during taxiing, take off, and landing (or if any turbulence is expected).
Is there a place to relieve myself on the plane?
There are designated relief areas outside of each plane for you to mark one last time before your tail is in the clouds. If you have to go during the flight, we have some pads in designated areas ready for you.
How many dogs and people will be on my flight?
On average, our cabins accommodate 7-9 humans and 7-9 pups.
Will humans clap when the plane lands?
We hope not.
Who can fly BARK Air?
We believe that all dogs are good dogs and we welcome having them aboard. However, the safety, comfort, and happiness of every dog we serve is our top priority. If you are uncomfortable around other dogs, anxious on planes, or easily triggered by humans, this may not be the best service for you.
Your BARK Air Concierge will talk with your human about your temperament and sensitivities.
Are children allowed to fly BARK Air?
Humans under the age of 10 are not permitted to fly on BARK Air.
Is there a minimum age requirement for humans to book a flight?
Your human must be at least 18 years old to book and travel with you. Please remind them to have their proper travel documents such as government issued REAL ID, visa and customs paperwork if you are flying on an international route. They must be well-trained and are limited to asking “who’s a good dog?” once per flight.
What documentation is required for me and my human?
Your human needs valid identification, so please make sure not to chew their state-issued REAL ID or passports. Dogs are required to have up-to-date vaccination records. If you don’t know what a vaccination is, it’s best not to ask.
Our crew will reach out to your human after they book the flight to gather additional information about your size, any allergies, and your socialization preferences.
International flights will require customs documents certifying we pups meet all criteria set forth by regulating entities. Typically, they require rabies vaccination records, microchip compliance, recent vet physical and tapeworm treatment.
Our concierge team will guide your human through the process.
Which vaccinations and other records are required?
Our concierge team will guide your human through the customs process for your BARK Air flights. Here are some specifics:
From the U.S. to The UK:
- An ISO compliant microchip (or a non-ISO compliant chip with an accompanying chip reader)
- An up-to-date rabies vaccine with proof it was done after or on the same day the microchip procedure took place
- A visit to a USDA accredited veterinarian—please have your human schedule as soon as possible to ensure your paperwork can be submitted to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection at least 10 days in advance of travel
- A tapeworm treatment 24-120 hours prior to arrival
- USDA Endorsed “Great Britain Pet Health Certificate
From the U.S. to Europe:
- An ISO compliant microchip (or a non-ISO compliant chip with an accompanying chip reader)
- An up-to-date rabies vaccine with proof it was done after or on the same day the microchip procedure took place
- A visit to a USDA accredited veterinarian—please have your human schedule as soon as possible to ensure your paperwork can be submitted to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection at least 10 days in advance of travel
- USDA endorsed EU Health Certificate OR valid EU Pet Passport
From Europe/The UK to the U.S.:
CDC Dog Import Form. While rabies vaccinations are not a requirement for customs, we do request proof of a current rabies vaccine at BARK as part of our commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of all pups on board.
For Domestic U.S. Flights:
Current vaccinations and health records from the vet.
Are there size or breed restrictions?
We welcome dogs of all sizes and breeds. If you are traveling internationally, particularly to the EU, we highly encourage your human to research any potential breed restrictions to ensure your travel plans are not affected by local governing bodies. We are happy to provide guidance if your pup is a mixed breed.
Does BARK Air require dog training prior to flying?
Humans aren’t required to train to board a plane (though they probably should). Flying BARK Air is similar to visiting a dog park. You should stick with your human, and socialize however much you like.
We know that not all dogs are social and may be a bit nervous in a new situation. We use our pup intake process to get to know your preferences and create the boarding order and seating arrangement that is optimal for everyone's experience.
Our BARK Air crew is fully trained and dedicated to provide pups and human passengers a safe and comfortable flight experience. To ensure this, we reserve the right to refuse the boarding of any passenger (human or dog) that demonstrates behaviors that pose a potential safety risk to staff or fellow passengers.
What do your concierge services entail?
Whether you’re flying commercial, private, or not flying at all, dog travel takes more than a reservation—it takes expertise. Our Companion Concierge service is designed to support every aspect of the journey, no matter how you travel. Our services include:
International Paperwork & Customs Support
Pre-Flight Vet Coordination & Eligibility
Dog-First Ground Transport
Relocation Assistance
Private Charter Flight Coordination
Always On Concierge Support
Dog Chaperone Services
Curated Stays & Experiences
How does my human book a consultation?
Have your human visit our Companion Concierge page to schedule their consultation via our scheduling link, and we’ll take it from there. Whether they need help with paperwork, want to book a private jet, or just need the perfect dog-friendly hotel—we’re here to make it seamless.
How does my human book a Private Charter?
Have your human visit our Private Charters page to explore available routes and contact us at charter@dogsflyfirst.com. Our concierge team will gladly guide them through the entire process—from aircraft selection to in-flight experience.
What is a Shared Charter?
When a traveler charters a BARK Air flight and has extra room, we open up those seats to others headed the same way. Shared Charter flights are crowdsourced and therefore subject to a minimum number of bookings. Once the minimum number of seats are filled, the flight is confirmed.
If the minimum number of seats is not met, we notify all interested parties that the flight has been cancelled so they can make alternate arrangements. If a flight is cancelled, we will offer alternative flights or provide a full refund.
How does my human book a Shared Charter?
Have your human visit our Shared Charters page to view available flights and select their desired flight through our booking widget.
In order to hold a spot on a Shared Charter, your human must either make a deposit or pay for the ticket(s) in full upon reserving. When making deposit, the remaining balance must be paid in full within 30 days of the reservation date and no less than 3 months prior to the departure date.
Please note that failure to do so may result in forfeiture of their deposit and reservation. All BARK Air ticket prices are subject to change and are only guaranteed once payment has been made in full for a booking.
What does a Shared Charter ticket include?
Like our standard BARK Air flights, each Shared Charter ticket covers travel for one human and up to two animal companions, as long as their combined weight is 50 pounds or less. If your human wishes to travel with another human or two animal companions whose combined weight exceeds 51 pounds, we kindly ask that they purchase an additional ticket.
All BARK Air ticket prices are subject to change and are only guaranteed once payment has been made in full for a booking.
How will my human know if a Shared Charter flight is confirmed?
We keep all dog parents informed on the status of Shared Charter flights at least once per month, and sometimes more frequently. We confirm Shared Charter flights at least 30 days prior to departure (and sometimes up to several months in advance, depending on demand).
What if a Shared Charter flight is cancelled?
If the minimum number of bookings is not met for a Shared Charter flight, we notify all interested parties that the flight has been cancelled so they can make alternate arrangements. If a flight is cancelled, we will offer alternative flights or provide a full refund.
What documentation is required for me and my human for Charter flights?
We will provide a checklist tailored to your route and destination, including your breed, size, vaccination records, and more.
Do BARK Air concierges fly on Charters?
Yes, BARK Air concierge team staff Shared Charter flights and provide the same signature service and experience as our standard routes.
For Private Charters, we are happy to arrange for a BARK Air concierge for an additional fee. Please have your human contact us for more details.
Where do Charters fly to and from?
We serve a vast network of airports through direct partnerships. Remote destinations, private terminals, and major hubs are all within reach.
Are non-canine companions welcome on Charter flights?
Yes, canine, feline, furry and other feathered family members are welcome on charter flights.
What is your Shared Charter cancellation policy?
We accept cancellations made at least 90 days prior to departure. For cancellations made less than 90 days in advance, a refund will only be issued if we are able to fill your human’s seat with another paying passenger. If we cannot fill their seat, neither a refund nor a credit will be provided due to the crowdsourced nature of a Shared Charter flight.
Are you planning on adding more routes?
Absolutely. We are continuously looking for opportunities to add more domestic and international routes. Please visit the Fly With Us page to suggest a route if you have something specific in mind.
What airports do you serve?
Our current routes serve the metro areas of New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London, Paris, Lisbon, and Madrid. Each of these airports is chosen for its accessibility, making travel smoother and more convenient for you and your human compared to larger, busier hubs.
What if our travel plans change?
We understand life happens. Our promise of seamless, stress-free travel means that our concierge team is ready to assist with any changes that might affect your journey.
Simply have your human contact us, and we’ll work with them to find a solution. Whether it’s adjusting dates, destinations, or services, we are committed to being flexible and supportive.
Why are the tickets so expensive?
We hear you, and want you to know that we’re working toward making BARK Air as accessible as possible. We appreciate your support as we work toward our goal of flying all pups who could benefit from a dog-first flight experience.
Are cats or other non-canine animals permitted on BARK Air flights?
If your human would like to travel with your cat, bird, or another non-canine companion, we’re happy to explore the possibility of accommodating your pack. Please note, all non-canine travelers must travel in an appropriate carrier and remain inside it at all times.
