Starting summer 2026, ITA Airways will allow dogs up to 30 kilograms to fly in the cabin on domestic flights.

[janek1980]

The service, called “Large Pet Friendly,” follows regulatory approval and includes dedicated cabin space for pets, daily flights to cities like Trieste, and a limit of about six large animals per plane. 

 

Until now, most countries (and airlines) only allowed small pets in the cabin, while bigger dogs were forced into cargo holds often a stressful and risky experience for both the pets and their humans.

But Italy’s new regulation flips the script. Now, as long as the dog is well-behaved, leashed, and the airline allows it, your large furry friend can sit right beside you, paws and all.

Some Italian airlines like ITA Airways and Neos are already on board, with special seating arrangements and pet-friendly policies.

It’s a win for animal welfare, a comfort boost for pet owners, and a big leap toward more compassionate travel.

So next time you’re flying to Rome, don’t be surprised if there’s a golden retriever chilling by the window seat.

Pet parents, rejoice Italy just became the most dog-friendly airspace in Europe.

[Jacson Combos]

Honestly, this feels like a small but meaningful shift. Traveling with a bigger dog has always meant either stressing over cargo conditions or just not going at all. Letting dogs up to 30 kg stay in the cabin sounds way more humane, especially for short domestic hops. Curious how they’ll manage space and allergies though — could get tricky if not handled well. Still, definitely a step in the right direction for pet owners.