The news is out and Pet Airways is the first of its kind on US runways dedicated to worry free travel with your pets. Amy Lieberman, Zootoo contributor, writes that the airline is based in New York with flights in and out of Chicago, Washington DC, Denver and LA, reporting that the airline is owned and operated by pet lovers who knew many people are not happy with the idea of having Gigi flying in a crate in the cold, unlit cargo area. Their airline provides a new model that may help pet parents vacation more often with their pets than without.
When you get near the airport, Charlie can be dropped off at the facility where he will wait in the lounge with pet attendants until on-boarding begins. A fully-lit and temperature-controlled environment, the plane has 50 safely fixed crates and pet attendants are present throughout the flight, no doubt providing assurances and “talking down” the nervous patrons in the crowd. (I wonder what the in-flight entertainment might be, music by Pet Shop Boys?) Flights are timed to synchronize with yours. When you land, just go to the pet lounge and collect your dog or cat. If you’re thinking that missed connections or late flights would have your furry companion in fits, think again; a pet attendant will remain with your animal at all times until you arrive.
The maiden flight to LA is July 14, at $149 one way, comparable to American Airlines $150 cargo charge, United Airlines $175-250, Delta’s $275. Continental Air charges $55 for cargo, and Southwest does not allow pets.
Pet Airways hopes to expand to 25 cities, and from the crash of their website due to demand, and the thousand-plus twitter followers so far, it doesn’t look as though it will take them long to grow. The pet industry has said they are recession-proof—looks like they’re right! Read more…
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