Emirates SkyCargo says it carried more than 14,600 cats, dogs and other domestic pets around the world in 2025, underlining the growing role of air freight in family relocations and international travel.
That figure equates to an average of around 40 animals transported every day, with pets travelling across Emirates’ global network to destinations including London, Melbourne, Glasgow, Cape Town, Paris, Mumbai, Toronto and Dubai.
The airline said more than 1,000 pets undertook ultra-long-haul journeys from the UK to Australia or New Zealand, while a further 100 travelled even farther, relocating from Canada to Australia.
Dedicated pet air cargo service
Emirates SkyCargo offers a specialist pet transport service designed to provide what it describes as a “stress-free journey” for animals and their owners.
The service complies fully with the International Air Transport Association’s Live Animal Regulations and is supported by purpose-built facilities and trained staff.
All animals departing, arriving or transiting through Dubai are handled at a dedicated pet lounge, which operates around the clock. The facility is staffed by animal care specialists who provide feeding, exercise, cleaning and monitoring during transit.
Pets are transported between the lounge and aircraft in specially designed, temperature-controlled vehicles and are boarded last and unloaded first, the airline said. Aircraft holds and ground facilities are also climate controlled to ensure animals remain comfortable, including during the Gulf summer.
Industry recognition
Emirates SkyCargo has also received recognition from the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA), which recently named the airline the preferred carrier for animal transport in four of its six global regions. Emirates has been a member of IPATA since 2015 and has received awards from the association every year it has taken part.
Dennis Lister, senior vice president of product and innovation at Emirates SkyCargo, said the service had been designed by teams who were themselves pet owners.
“We have created a solution that prioritises each animal’s comfort, safety and care at every stage of the journey,” he said. “Across our global network, specialist teams and dedicated infrastructure give peace of mind to both animals and their human companions.”
Transporting animals beyond pets
In addition to domestic pets, Emirates SkyCargo also operates specialist animal transport services, including its Equine solution for horses.
The airline uses purpose-built aircraft stalls with adjustable roofs, controlled lighting and ventilation, as well as onboard provisions such as hay nets, bedding and water.
At Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai, dedicated facilities include 45 horse stalls and a permanent ramp designed to reduce stress and minimise the risk of injury during loading and unloading.
Emirates SkyCargo said it would continue to invest in its animal transport capabilities as demand for specialist air cargo services continues to grow.