Can I take an assistance dog?

You are welcome to travel with your assistance dog free of charge on board TUI flights.

Recognised assistance dogs are those which are highly trained to assist a disabled person. For example a guide dog for a blind or visually impaired person, a hearing dog for a deaf or a hard of hearing person, or a service dog for a physically impaired person. Their training must have been undertaken by an organisation that is approved by the state secretary, or approved or affiliated to one of the following:
•  Assistance Dogs International (ADI)
•  International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF)

You’ll also need to provide official documentation which confirms that your assistance dog meets the requirements of the Pet Travel Scheme Regulation.

In addition, you’ll also need to provide a certificate which confirms that the assistance dog is fully trained or is in training and under the control of the trainer. This documentation must be from an organisation which is affiliated to either the ADI or IGDF.

Here’s a few general guidelines to consider if you’re planning on bringing an assistance dog on board:
•  We will not accept any recognised assistance dogs which are not correctly documented.
•  We recommend that you contact the airport’s animal reception centre before you travel. They’ll usually meet you on arrival and clear your recognised assistance dog through customs. Head to your airport’s website for more details, or check out Guide Dogs UK or the Pet Travel Scheme helpline.
•  Your dog and their required amount of food will be carried free of charge.
•​​​​​​​  Let us know if you’re bringing a recognised assistance dog no later than 48 hours before your flight.
•​​​​​​​  You should arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight is due to leave so there’s enough time to complete any documentation.

From 1st August 2024, dogs entering or returning to the USA must meet new specific requirements, depending on where they’ve been in the six months before entering the USA, and where they received their rabies vaccines – if required. This also applies to assistance and guide dogs.

Find out more on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.