South African Airways flying with pets

Are pets allowed in the passenger cabin on South African Airways flights?

On South African Airways flights, with the exception of Service Dogs, pets cannot be carried in the passenger cabin.

Are pets accepted as checked baggage on South African Airways flights?

On all SAA international flights, due to infrastructure problems at OR Tambo International Airport, live animals are no longer accepted as checked baggage. On all international flights to and from South Africa, animals must be carried as manifested cargo in accordance with the IATA Live Animals’ Regulations.

On domestic flights, only cats, dogs and birds and only on certain aircraft, will be accepted as checked baggage. If you wish to travel with your pet, you must confirm acceptance prior to travel by making the necessary arrangements via the SAA Call Centre. Pets are not accepted as part of the free baggage allowance, and the weight of the animal and its container will be charged an excess charge of ZAR 250 (VAT including). The container must not exceed 1 x 1 m and a maximum weight of 23 kg.

Service Animals

Service Dogs, accompanying their owner, are accepted in the passenger cabin of any class, free of charge. Passengers traveling with a Service Dog are advised to contact the SAA Reservations Office in advance to make the necessary arrangements. The Service Dog must not occupy a seat, nor must be seated in a location that would block escape routes in the event of an emergency. The Service Dog must be properly harnessed.

One Service Dog for a blind or deaf passenger is accepted on all domestic and international routes.

Only to/from the US, psychiatric or emotional support animals are accepted.

More information here >>