Pet Airways is coming to town! The new kid on the block and first of its kind airline is based in New York with flights in and out of Chicago, Washington DC, Denver and LA. Owned and operated by pet lovers, they knew many people are not comfortable with the idea of having Gigi flying in a crate in the cold, unlit cargo area. Their airline provides another choice.
Whether pet families are off to visit relatives or take a vacation, Charlie can be dropped off at a nearby facility where he will wait in the lounge with pet attendants until on-boarding begins. The plane has no seats, but 50 crates are safely fixed and animals are put in place, enjoying a fully lit and temperature controlled flight. Pet attendants are ever-present, providing safety and no doubt assurances, “talking down” the nervous Nellies in the crowd. Flights are timed to synchronize with yours; when you land you can go to the pet lounge and collect your dog or cat. And you need not worry about missed connections or late flights. A pet attendant will remain with your animal at all times until you arrive.
Pet Airways cross-country maiden flight to LA is July 14, $149 one way, which is comparable to cargo costs of American Airlines $150, United Airlines $175-250, and Delta’s $275. Continental Airlines charges $55 for cargo, and Southwest does not allow pets.
The airline 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 appear it will take them long to grow. The pet industry has said they are recession-proof—looks like they’re right! Read more...
For weekend dog events, please check Lists:)
Comments
They should take this concept international as soon as possible. I move a lot for my government job, and trying to get animals on a flight that has availability AND follows government purchasing rules is becoming close to impossible.
There's a HUGE market for this. Bravo.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!