Animals that are too large to fly in the cabin will be transported as checked baggage with Korean Airlines. Pets are allowed to fly in the pressurized cargo hold of the aircraft on the same flights as their owners. This is a marked departure from most U.S. domestic airlines, but it remains a popular option for parents whose pets weigh more than the 15-pound maximum for in-cabin transport. If you’re curious about additional flight options, read more about the Korean Air pet policy.

 

Pet Restrictions for Flying as Checked Baggage

Brachycephalic animals were recently banned from flying in the cargo hold of Korean Air passenger flights. These breeds are susceptible to breathing difficulties during air travel, which means they could die or suffer serious injury if traveling as checked baggage. For Korean Air, the follow breeds are considered brachycephalic.

  • Affenpinscher
  • American Bully
  • Boston Terrier
  • Boxer
  • Brussels Griffon
  • Bulldog
  • Cane Corso
  • Chihuahua
  • Chow Chow
  • Dogo Argentino
  • Dogue de Bordeaux
  • English Toy Spaniel
  • Japanese Chin
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Newfoundland
  • Pekingese
  • Pug
  • Shar Pei
  • Shih Tzu
  • Tibetan Spaniel
  • British Shorthair
  • Burmese
  • Himalayan
  • Persian
  • Scottish Fold

Additionally, the minimum pet age for animals traveling as checked baggage has changed. Young animals are more vulnerable to unfamiliar surroundings, and prolonged exposure to the aircraft cargo hold may cause physical and psychological damage. As a result, animals must be at least 16 weeks old to fly Korean Air as checked baggage.

 

Travel Container Specifications

The maximum pet cage dimensions have recently increased. For animals traveling as checked baggage, carriers cannot be larger than 84 cm high, or around 2 feet. Cages should have hard, rigid sides, good ventilation, and absorbent flooring in the case of a bathroom emergency. Pet parents should also affix a label to the cage that contains the pet’s information and owner contact information.

 

What is the Cost to fly Pets in Checked Baggage with Korean Air

The cost to fly a pet as checked baggage on Korean Air will vary by the animal’s weight and the distance traveled. Flights from Korea to the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Oceania will cost around $300. If your pet weighs over 32kg, or 70 lb, that fee could jump to $600. For domestic flights within Korea, you should expect to pay around between $25 and $50 depending on your pet’s weight. Make sure to check these restrictions carefully. For a full list of pet travel charges and calculations, consult the Korean Air pet travel charges webpage.