Changes to Emotional Support Dog Travel Guidelines
Singapore Airlines (SIA) will no longer accept requests to travel with emotional support dogs in the cabin from April 1, 2023. This decision follows a notable incident where two emotional support corgis travelling in SIA’s business class gained widespread attention.
As per the updated policy on their website, SIA stated, “From April 1, 2023 (0000hrs SGT), emotional support dogs will not be permitted in the cabin on any of our flights.”
In a statement to Mothership, an SIA representative explained that the airline routinely reviews its policies to ensure they align with industry standards, although no specific reason was provided for this change.
However, passengers with assistance dogs will still be allowed to travel with their animals, provided they meet the required conditions and comply with the regulations of the departure, transit, or destination countries.
Prior to the new policy’s implementation, passengers travelling with either assistance or emotional support dogs could bring their pets into the cabin without any additional fees, as long as specific requirements were met. SIA’s website explains that “assistance dogs are specially trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities,” while “emotional support dogs provide comfort to alleviate psychological conditions.”
In addition to the usual travel documents such as health certificates and vaccination letters, emotional support dog owners also need a statement from a licensed mental health professional and a separate acknowledgment form. Assistance dog owners must present these along with the relevant permits and veterinary documents.
For those planning to fly before April 1, 2023, SIA still allows requests for emotional support dogs. Passengers who made their requests prior to the policy change will be permitted to travel with their pets after the cut-off date.
SIA also noted that passengers wishing to transport emotional support dogs in the cargo hold can contact SIA Cargo for assistance before their flight. It’s important to note that due to import/export regulations, emotional support dogs are not allowed on flights to or from certain countries, including Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and destinations like Bali, Brunei, and Hong Kong.
