Starting in 2025, medium and large-sized dogs will be able to travel in the cabin next to their owners, replacing the old rule that required them to be carried in the hold. The new rules have been published by ENAC, the Italian Air Transport Authority.National Civil Aviation Authority which is the Italian authority that regulates, controls, and supervises everything related to civil air transport in Italy.
ENAC has therefore published guidelines that open the door to Cabin transport also for animals over 8–10 kg provided that clear safety and coexistence conditions are respected on board. It's not a "free for all": companies can participate, but they must do so with defined procedures and, above all, by presenting a operational plan to ENAC to obtain authorization.
What does this mean, in concrete terms, for those traveling with a large dog? It means that the dog can travel next to the owner, in a dedicated and safe accommodation: suitable carrier attached to the seat (or positioned as the aircraft permits), window seat, no sensitive areas like the emergency exitsThe guidelines also include advance information and solutions such as "buffer zones" for those with allergies or who do not like close proximity.
Some carriers are already experimenting: ITA Airways announced initiatives for large dogs in the cabin with harness and muzzle, dedicated spaces and health/documentary requirements (microchip, vaccinations, veterinary certification).
The golden rule remains one: Before booking, always check the policy of the specific flight (domestic vs. international, aircraft type, dedicated seat availability) and prepare all required documentation.
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