Virgin Australia is doubling down on something pet‑loving travellers have clearly been craving: the chance to bring their furry sidekicks into the cabin on domestic flights. The airline has confirmed that its Pets in Cabin program isn’t just sticking around. It is planning to grow the offer. After Easter, and once final airport approvals are locked in, the network is set to expand to include select flights to and from Adelaide and Launceston.
This comes at a time the Virgin Australia has announced a milestone: Virgin Australia is about to welcome its 1,000th pet onboard. That’s a lot of wagging tails and curious whiskers cruising at 30,000 feet.
Where pets can fly right now
If you’re planning a getaway with your cat or small dog, these routes are already pet‑friendly:
- Melbourne ↔ Gold Coast
- Melbourne ↔ Sunshine Coast
The service only launched in October 2025, but it appears to already provide many the chance to take their pet along. For many people, leaving a pet behind is the biggest barrier to taking a holiday. Now, more travellers are packing the treats and bringing their four‑legged family members along for the ride.
Why the airline is expanding the service
Virgin Australia Chief Marketing and Customer Operations Officer, Libby Minogue said the response to the Pets in Cabin services has been extraordinary.
This month marks a huge milestone for our Pets in Cabin services, with our 1000th furry friend on track to take to the skies. The response to our Australian-first Pets in Cabin offering has far surpassed our expectations which shows the sheer demand for the offering,” said Ms Minogue.
For many Australians, pets are family, and being able to travel together removes a major barrier to taking a holiday or visiting loved ones.
Pets on a Plane Rules
Virgin’s pet‑friendly flights allow only four animals on each service, and they’re placed in specific seats in economy. Business class stays pet‑free. This keeps the cabin organised, and it also helps the crew manage pets more smoothly.
Pets must travel in a soft, leak‑proof carrier with an absorbent mat. The carrier has to slide under the seat in front, and it still needs to leave enough space and airflow for the animal. This setup makes boarding easier and keeps the cabin tidy.
Once you enter the terminal, your dog or cat must stay inside the carrier the whole time. This rule applies during boarding, the flight, and when you leave the aircraft. The only break comes at security, where you carry your pet while the empty carrier goes through screening like any other piece of hand luggage.
