✈️ Taking Pets on El Al Airlines: Complete 2025 Guide

Pre Aliyah (Sponsored By Easy Aliyah) Pets
1

:paw_prints: Which Pets Are Allowed on El Al?

El Al permits the transport of the following animals:

Pet Type Cabin Hold Cargo
Dogs :white_check_mark: :white_check_mark: :white_check_mark:
Cats :white_check_mark: :white_check_mark: :white_check_mark:
Service dogs :white_check_mark: (free) :cross_mark: :cross_mark:
Other animals :cross_mark: :cross_mark: :cross_mark: (consult El Al Cargo)

:bird: Birds, reptiles, rodents, and exotic animals are not allowed in the cabin or hold. You must contact El Al Cargo for special freight arrangements.

:airplane: 1. Transport Options

:handbag: 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

:pushpin: You must inform El Al in advance and receive confirmation

:luggage: 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

:snowflake: 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)

:package: 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

:magnifying_glass_tilted_right: Visit El Al Cargo for pricing and process.

:stethoscope: 2. Required Documents

To bring your pet into Israel (or transport via El Al), you must prepare:

:israel: For Entry to Israel (Updated 2025 Rules)

  1. Import Permit from Israeli Ministry of Agriculture
  • Apply at least 30 days before travel
  • Valid for 90 days
  • Apply online
  1. Veterinary Health Certificate
  • Issued within 10 days before travel
  • Must be signed by licensed vet and endorsed by government authority (e.g., USDA, CFIA)
  1. Proof of Rabies Vaccination
  • Administered at least 30 days prior and not older than 12 months
  • Microchip must be implanted before vaccination
  1. Microchip Certificate
  • ISO 11784/11785 compliant (15-digit)
  1. Declaration Form
  • Stating animal is a personal pet and not for sale
  • Some countries require USDA or equivalent endorsement

:cross_mark: 3. Breed Restrictions

El Al prohibits certain snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds from flying in the cargo hold due to breathing risk.

:stop_sign: Restricted Breeds (Cargo Hold or Cabin Denied)

  • Dogs: Pug, Boxer, Bulldog, Shih Tzu, Boston Terrier, Pekinese, Shar-Pei, Chow Chow
  • Cats: Persian, Himalayan, Burmese

:right_arrow: These breeds must travel via Cargo with prior veterinary clearance.

:man_with_white_cane: 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

:brain: Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not recognized for free cabin travel on El Al.

:money_bag: 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.

:package: 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

:light_bulb: El Al may reject unsuitable crates at check-in

:airplane_departure: 7. Day of Travel Checklist

:white_check_mark: Confirm booking with El Al (pet added to PNR)
:white_check_mark: Print import permit & vet documents
:white_check_mark: Arrive 3–4 hours early for check-in
:white_check_mark: Feed pet no later than 4 hours before flight
:white_check_mark: Label crate with name and phone number
:white_check_mark: Freeze water bottle to avoid spills
:white_check_mark: Walk pet before crate loading
:white_check_mark: Pack a small arrival kit: leash, water, treats, wet wipes

:compass: How Easy Aliyah Can Help

At Easy Aliyah, we help families relocate with pets smoothly and safely. We:

:check_mark: Guide you through import permits and vet paperwork
:check_mark: Assist with El Al bookings and crate approval
:check_mark: Handle apostilles and Hebrew translations if needed
:check_mark: Coordinate with El Al Cargo or private pet movers
:check_mark: Ensure compliance with Israeli Ministry of Agriculture rules

:envelope_with_arrow: Contact Easy Aliyah to avoid stress and ensure your pet is by your side for the journey home.

:dog: Final Tips

  • Start early – allow at least 6 weeks to gather documents and permits
  • Don’t sedate your pet — it’s dangerous at altitude
  • Book direct flights when possible to reduce stress
  • Speak to your vet about flight-readiness and hydration
  • Consider a pet relocation agent for large or sensitive animals