A practical summary of general container (crate) design requirements commonly referenced for air transport of dogs and cats

What to confirm with your airline or pet transport operator before you buy or build a crate

Source note: Independent PadsPass summary based on the IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR), Edition 50. Not an official IATA publication. Confirm the current edition and airline-specific rules before use.

Currentness note: This page must be updated with the specific LAR edition (and date checked) before operational use.

Use a rigid, sturdy container that can withstand normal handling and nearby freight without buckling.

Ensure the crate is built to prevent escape through seams, joints, or gaps.

Use non-toxic materials. Avoid chemically treated or impregnated woods that could be harmful.

Make sure all inside edges are smooth and rounded.

Prevent protrusions (nails, screws, sharp mesh ends) that could injure an animal.

Use a door system that cannot open accidentally from inside or outside.

Avoid relying on weak or single-point closures.

If the crate has a plastic door, confirm the airline's rules and ensure hardware is sufficiently strong.

The crate should be clean and leak-proof.

Provide absorbent bedding appropriate for the species.

Some bedding materials may be restricted by destination rules. Confirm import restrictions before travel.

Build in spacer bars or spacer devices so ventilation openings are less likely to be blocked and handlers can stand on either side of the crate and lift it.

Ensure handlers can move the crate safely without risk of being bitten or scratched.

If wheels are present, remove them or render them inoperable unless the operator explicitly allows otherwise.

Stand naturally (without touching the roof)

Turn around normally while standing

Lie down in a natural position

Always prioritize the performance standard above.

Airlines may enforce additional rules beyond a formula.

Confirm current airline or operator rules before travel.

Consult your licensed veterinarian before travel.

Provide adequate ventilation on multiple sides, with substantial ventilation toward the upper portion of the crate.

Ensure openings are small enough (or covered with sturdy welded mesh) to prevent escape or injury.

Design the crate so ventilation is unlikely to be blocked by other freight (spacers help).

Provide separate food and water containers when required by the operator.

Containers should be made of non-toxic material with rounded edges.

When required, the containers should be affixed so they cannot be dislodged.

Prefer setups that allow filling without opening the crate, where operator rules require it.

Follow airline and operator instructions for labels.

Do not place labels in a way that blocks ventilation openings.

Do not rely on this page for sedation, tranquilization, medication timing, respiratory risk decisions, or fitness-to-fly judgment.

Sedation or tranquilization decisions should only be made with your licensed veterinarian and may be restricted by airline or operator rules.

Your airline or operator's latest live-animal container rules

Destination import rules that may affect bedding, labeling, or crate materials

Any species, size, or breed restrictions that apply to your itinerary