Turkish Airlines has unveiled a dedicated Pet Lounge at Istanbul Airport, enhancing travel accommodations for passengers traveling with pets. The new facility is designed to provide a comfortable and stress-free environment for animals awaiting their flights, especially those not eligible to travel in the cabin.
Cabin and Cargo Pet Policies
For pets traveling in the cabin, Turkish Airlines allows animals weighing up to 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds), including the carrier. The carrier must not exceed dimensions of 23 cm in height, 30 cm in width, and 40 cm in length. Pets exceeding these requirements are transported in the aircraft’s cargo hold.
To better cater to these pets, the airline has introduced the Pet Lounge, offering a dedicated space to relax before departure.
Pet Lounge Features
The Pet Lounge spans 250 square meters (approximately 2,700 square feet) and includes:
- An outdoor terrace for fresh air.
- Accommodation for up to 78 animals at a time, including 32 dogs, 36 cats, and 10 birds.
- On-site veterinary services to ensure pets’ health and comfort.
Abdulkerim Cay, Deputy General Manager for Human Resources at Turkish Airlines, highlighted the lounge’s capacity and commitment to enhancing the travel experience for animals and their owners.
A Step Forward for Pet Travel
Turkish Airlines, renowned for flying to more countries than any other carrier, has shown its dedication to making pet travel more seamless. The airline not only introduced the Pet Lounge but also offers dedicated pet check-in counters at Istanbul Airport, streamlining the process for passengers and their furry companions.
The facility is a thoughtful addition, considering the challenges and stress pets may face while traveling in cargo holds. It provides a more welcoming space for animals, featuring greenery and an outdoor area to ease their journey.
