If you are travelling by plane with a pet, you may come across the PETC airline code. Airlines use a range of short codes to record passenger requests and additional services within a flight booking.
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PETC is one of several airline codes relating to animals travelling on flights. Understanding what the PETC airline code means can help you check that your pet has been correctly added to your booking and that the airline is expecting them to travel in the aircraft cabin.
Passenger Assistance Codes (SSR)
Airline and airport codes exist for many different reasons. One important type is a Special Service Request (SSR) code. SSR codes are added to a passenger’s booking record to provide the airline with additional information or to request a particular service.
These codes can cover everything from disability assistance and special meals to medical equipment and animals travelling on board. Learn more in my guide to the different codes airports and airlines use.
PETC is the SSR code commonly used when a passenger is travelling with a pet in the aircraft cabin.
Understanding the PETC Airline Code
PETC means Pet in Cabin. The PETC airline code is added to a booking when an airline has accepted a passenger’s pet for travel inside the aircraft cabin. The code helps airline staff identify that an animal will be travelling in the cabin and allows the airline to manage restrictions such as the number of pets permitted on a flight.
A PETC code request is not automatically approved simply because the code has been requested or added to a booking. Airlines have their own rules regarding which animals can travel in the cabin, the size and weight of the pet and carrier, applicable fees and restrictions on particular routes.
How to Add PETC to Your Booking
The process for adding a PETC code request depends on the airline you are travelling with. Some airlines allow passengers to add a pet during the online booking process. Others require you to contact the airline’s customer service team after booking your flight.
You will usually need to provide information including:
- The type of animal travelling
- The breed of the animal
- The weight of the pet
- The dimensions and weight of the pet carrier
- Details of the flights on which the animal will travel
You may also need to pay an additional fee.
It is important to arrange pet travel as early as possible. Many airlines restrict the number of animals that can travel in the cabin on each flight, meaning PETC animal requests can become unavailable even when passenger seats are still available.
What Does the PETC Code Provide?
The PETC code indicates that a passenger is travelling with a pet in the aircraft cabin. Depending on the airline, route and aircraft, this usually means the pet must remain inside an approved carrier that fits underneath the seat in front of the passenger.
The PETC airline code itself does not provide the passenger with additional airport assistance or disability-related services.
It is also important to understand that having PETC recorded on a booking does not override the airline’s rules regarding animal travel. Passengers must still meet all documentation, vaccination, identification, carrier and entry requirements for their destination.
PETC Airline Code vs AVIH Airline Code
PETC and AVIH are two airline codes that are commonly associated with animals travelling by air, but they mean different things.
PETC means Pet in Cabin. It is generally used when an animal is travelling inside the passenger cabin.
AVIH means Animal in Hold. This code is generally used when an animal is transported in the aircraft hold rather than inside the passenger cabin.
The rules, costs and booking procedures for PETC and AVIH can be very different, so it is important to check which code applies to your animal before travelling.
PETC Meaning FAQ
What is PETC in full form in aviation?
PETC stands for Pet in Cabin. It is an airline Special Service Request code used to indicate that a passenger will be travelling with an approved pet inside the aircraft cabin.
What is the meaning of PETC at the airport?
At the airport, PETC indicates that a pet has been booked to travel in the aircraft cabin. Airline staff may check your booking, travel documents and pet carrier before allowing you to check in and board the flight.
What does PETC mean on a boarding pass?
If PETC appears on your boarding pass or flight booking, it generally means that a Pet in Cabin request has been recorded. However, you should always confirm that the request has been approved by the airline before travelling to the airport.
Is a service dog PETC?
Generally, no. Recognised assistance or service dogs are normally handled differently from pets travelling in the cabin and may have a different SSR code, such as SVAN.
The exact terminology and booking process can vary between airlines and countries.
How do I get a PETC code?
You can request PETC when booking your flight or by contacting the airline after making your reservation.
The airline will check whether pets are permitted in the cabin on your route and whether space is available.
Does PETC mean my pet booking is confirmed?
Not necessarily. A PETC request may need to be approved by the airline. You should check your booking confirmation or contact the airline to make sure your pet has been accepted before travelling.
Continue Learning about Airline SSR Codes
PETC is just one of many airline Special Service Request (SSR) codes used to help airlines provide the right services for passengers and animals. Whether you’re travelling with a pet, an assistance dog, require wheelchair assistance or have medical needs, understanding these codes can make planning your journey much easier.
Explore our full collection of airline SSR code guides to learn what each code means, when it’s used and how to request it before your next flight.
- Find out about the different airline special meal codes and what they represent
- Learn what DPNA means and who should use this code
- Find out what PRM means and what PRM Assist is
- Find out what codes airlines use for disability assistance requests
Continue Planning Your Next Accessible Trip
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