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Virgin Atlantic Airlines Psychiatric Service Dog And Emotional Support Animal Policy Guide

​Virgin Atlantic permits both psychiatric service dogs (PSDs) and emotional support animals (ESAs) to travel in the cabin, provided they meet specific criteria. Travelers must notify Virgin Atlantic’s Special Assistance team at least 72 hours before departure and provide necessary documentation.
Robert Clendenin MD
Medically Reviewed by Robert Clendenin, MD
Virgin Atlantic has a specific policy guide for traveling with psychiatric service dogs and emotional support animals. If you are traveling with these animals, you must be aware of these policies. Otherwise, you might encounter scenarios in which your travel plans get disrupted. Here, we will share some insights about Virgin Atlantic’s pet policy so you can make more informed decisions.
Virgin Atlantic Airline

Are Psychiatric Service Dogs Allowed To Travel With Me?

As per the Virgin Atlantic service animal policies, psychiatric service dogs can fly with you into the aircraft cabin without any additional fee. However, your animal must be fully trained, including tasks that assist with your medical disability.

What Documents Do You Need To Travel With Your Service Animal?

  • U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form: This form must be submitted for validation before your flight, attesting to the animal’s training, health, and behavior.
  • DOT Relief Attestation Form: Required for flights longer than eight hours, certifying that the animal will not relieve itself in the aircraft or can do so hygienically.
  • Psychiatric Service Dog Letter: You must also have a psychiatric service dog letter to verify your need for a service animal.

What Is a PSD Letter, and How Can I Get One?

A psychiatric service dog letter is a legal document that certifies the necessity of having an animal for medical purposes. It states that you have a certain medical ailment, and your dog is included in your treatment process. A PSD letter provides certain rights regarding housing and traveling to its owner.

You can ask a licensed healthcare professional to help you obtain the letter. They will examine your medical condition and the need for a service animal to manage it. You will get your PSD letter if they believe your medical condition needs a service animal. Use your letter to get housing, public, and travel accommodations.

Dog with boarding pass and suitcase at airport terminal

How To Book A Flight With A Service Animal On Virgin Atlantic Airlines?

Fill out the online form for assistance dogs at least 72 hours before your flight. This form is necessary to inform the airline about your service animal and ensure that all the required arrangements are made for your journey. You can also email the airline about your need to travel with a service animal at special.assistance@fly.virgin.com with the following details:
  • Your booking references, such as flight number and date of flight.
  • Breed and weight of your psychiatric service dog.
  • Tasks your service animal assists with.
  • Details of the behavioral training that your assistance dog has completed.

Are Any Restrictions On Service Dog Breeds by Virgin Atlantic Pet Travel Policy?

Virgin Atlantic’s pet policy does not accept certain dog breeds in their aircraft cabins. They do not permit brachycephalic breeds with flatter faces with snub or pug noses. These breeds include the following:

  • Pekingese
  • Pug breeds
  • Boston Terrier
  • Brussels Griffin
  • English toy Spaniel
  • Japanese Spaniel
  • English Bulldog
  • French Bulldog
  • Shih Tzu
  • or any dog listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

What are Virgin Atlantic Pet Carrier Size Requirements?

The minimum size for pet carriers is

  • 71 cm Long
  • 52 cm Wide
  • 54 cm Height

When choosing a pet carrier, consider a few key requirements. The carrier should be constructed from either wood or hard plastic and have a leak-proof base to prevent accidents. It needs to have secure locking mechanisms to avoid accidental escapes. Additionally, the carrier must be rigid and non-collapsible, with ventilation on all four sides to ensure proper airflow. Furthermore, it should not have opening roofs or grills, and it’s crucial to have soft, absorbent material on the bottom for comfort.

When Can Virgin Atlantic Refuse To Carry Your Service Animal And Emotional Support Animal?

  • Your animal has a contagious or potentially fatal illness.
  • Its presence negatively affects the welfare or comfort of other people.
  • Its presence could divert the flight or interfere with operations.
  • It might violate the nation’s laws when entering, leaving, or traveling.
  • It is not well-behaved or disruptive.

What Are The Tips for Smooth Virgin Atlantic Pet Travel?

  • Book your tickets early, as cabin and cargo space is limited for animals in Virgin Atlantic.
  • Start planning early. Allow time to arrange documentation and meet entry requirements.
  • Read all Virgin Atlantic pet guidelines. It will give you a hassle-free traveling experience.
  • It is also good to be aware of the Virgin Atlantic pet restrictions.
  • Feed your pet at least 4 hours before your flight. It reduces stomach issues.
  • Consult your vet early to check your pet’s health status and determine whether it can handle higher altitude traveling.

Where Can You Contact To Learn More About Virgin Atlantic’s Pet Policy?

  • Support Animal Form: Fill out the Support Animal Form available on their website. This form is specifically designed for passengers traveling with service animals and will help you provide all necessary information to Virgin Atlantic.
  • Email: You can also send an email to special.assistance@fly.virgin.com. This email address is dedicated to special assistance inquiries, including traveling with service animals.
  • Online Help Desk: Visit the Virgin Atlantic Online Help Desk for general inquiries and additional information about their pet policy and traveling with service animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Permitted To Travel In The Cabin On Virgin Atlantic?

Per the Virgin Atlantic pet policy, pets cannot travel in the cabin. However, they can travel in the plane’s cargo. It’s crucial to note that Virgin Atlantic is not responsible for transporting your animal in cargo.

Which Animal Species Are Permitted To Travel With Virgin Atlantic?

Virgin Atlantic Airlines pet policy only allows service dogs on its plans. Any other animal will not get accommodation or even be allowed to fly. This policy ensures that only trained animals can travel, so there is no delay or harm to others on the plane.

What Are The Pet Carrier Requirements Under The Virgin Atlantic Pet In Cabin Policy?

The pet carrier must meet the following specific size requirements:

23cm long, 36cm wide, and 41cm high.

Additionally, it must be made of either wood or hard plastic. Adhering to these requirements will help you prepare in advance and avoid surprises at the airport.

How Early Should I Inform The Airlines About My Pet?

You should inform the flight at least 72 hours before your flight departure. This time is needed to accommodate your needs, so you and your companions can travel easily without hassle or disruptions. However, if you book your ticket on an emergency basis, please contact the airline immediately.

What Will Happen If My Pet Is Not Following My Commands?

According to Virgin Atlantic Airlines pet policy, you will lose accommodation rights. Even the airlines may restrict your travel with your animal. So, it’s better to train your animal to follow your commands.

Post Author

Patricia Thompson

Prince Sharma

Prince Sharma is a content manager with a passion for reading, design, and cats. When he's not working, he enjoys discovering new design trends or relaxing with a good book and his furry friends

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