Which Pets Are Allowed on El Al?
El Al permits the transport of the following animals:
| Pet Type | Cabin | Hold | Cargo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs |  | | |
| Cats | | | |
| Service dogs | (free) |  | |
| Other animals | | | (consult El Al Cargo) |
Birds, reptiles, rodents, and exotic animals are not allowed in the cabin or hold. You must contact El Al Cargo for special freight arrangements.
1. Transport Options
In the Cabin
- Allowed: Small dogs or cats
- Max weight: Up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs) including the carrier
- Carrier size: Must fit under seat (max 40×30×20 cm / 15.7x11.8x7.9 in)
- Carrier must be soft-sided, leak-proof, and ventilated
- Only one pet per passenger is allowed in the cabin
- Fee: ~$150–$250 depending on route
You must inform El Al in advance and receive confirmation
In the Hold (as Checked Baggage)
- For pets heavier than 8 kg (including crate)
- Transported in the pressurized baggage hold
- Must be in an IATA-compliant hard-sided kennel
- Dimensions depend on aircraft and must be approved by El Al
- Fee: ~$250–$400 depending on size and route
Temperature limits apply: Pets are not transported in the hold if weather at origin/destination exceeds 85°F (29°C) or drops below 45°F (7°C)
In Cargo (via El Al Cargo)
- For large pets, unaccompanied animals, or snub-nosed breeds (see below)
- Cargo booking must be made separately
- Requires vet clearance, customs documents, and possibly a pet agent
Visit El Al Cargo for pricing and process.
2. Required Documents
To bring your pet into Israel (or transport via El Al), you must prepare:
For Entry to Israel (Updated 2025 Rules)
- Import Permit from Israeli Ministry of Agriculture
- Apply at least 30 days before travel
- Valid for 90 days
- Apply online
- Veterinary Health Certificate
- Issued within 10 days before travel
- Must be signed by licensed vet and endorsed by government authority (e.g., USDA, CFIA)
- Proof of Rabies Vaccination
- Administered at least 30 days prior and not older than 12 months
- Microchip must be implanted before vaccination
- Microchip Certificate
- ISO 11784/11785 compliant (15-digit)
- Declaration Form
- Stating animal is a personal pet and not for sale
- Some countries require USDA or equivalent endorsement
3. Breed Restrictions
El Al prohibits certain snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds from flying in the cargo hold due to breathing risk.
Restricted Breeds (Cargo Hold or Cabin Denied)
- Dogs: Pug, Boxer, Bulldog, Shih Tzu, Boston Terrier, Pekinese, Shar-Pei, Chow Chow
- Cats: Persian, Himalayan, Burmese
These breeds must travel via Cargo with prior veterinary clearance.
4. Service Dogs
- Certified guide dogs may fly in the cabin at no charge
- Must wear harness or vest
- You’ll need to provide:
- Proof of training
- Medical necessity letter (if Emotional Support Animal)
- Advance booking with El Al Disability Services
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not recognized for free cabin travel on El Al.
5. Fees Summary (2025 Estimates)
| Transport Type | Fee (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin | $150–250 | Small dogs/cats only |
| Hold | $250–400 | Must be under 45 kg including crate |
| Cargo | $400–800+ | Based on weight, breed, and route |
| Service Dog | Free | With required paperwork |
Final prices may vary by destination. Always confirm with El Al 2–3 weeks in advance.
6. Crate Requirements (IATA-Compliant)
- Hard-sided (for hold/cargo) or soft-sided (for cabin)
- Must allow the pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably
- Include:
- Water container fixed to inside of door
- Absorbent material (e.g., puppy pads)
- Proper ventilation (min. 3 sides)
- Label: “LIVE ANIMAL” + name/contact
El Al may reject unsuitable crates at check-in
7. Day of Travel Checklist
Confirm booking with El Al (pet added to PNR) Print import permit & vet documents Arrive 3–4 hours early for check-in Feed pet no later than 4 hours before flight Label crate with name and phone number Freeze water bottle to avoid spills Walk pet before crate loading Pack a small arrival kit: leash, water, treats, wet wipes
