ITA Airways' new initiative opens up a new service opportunity for travel agencies
For many people, a dog isn't just a pet—it's part of the family.
And when it comes time to travel, the ability to bring it along can be a deciding factor in choosing a flight, an airline, and a travel agency to work with.
ITA Airways is now taking an important step toward more inclusive air travel with “Large Dog On Board”, the new service that allows dogs weighing up to 30 kg to travel in the cabin, without a carrier, next to their owner.
The new policy initially applies to a selection of domestic flights identified by the airline as “Large Dog” flights.
A new feature for travelers, an additional service for travel agencies
This opportunity isn't just for people who travel with pets.
It also applies to agencies that are able to offer clients comprehensive support, addressing needs that, until recently, seemed difficult to manage.
With Skytool, the agency can also issue a dog ticket for ITA Airways flights, integrating it into the sales process and travel itinerary management.
This allows the agent to assist the customer not only in choosing a flight, but also in planning a more complex trip, in which the following factors must be taken into account:
- the availability of the service on the flight;
- the dog's weight and characteristics;
- the travel class;
- the restrictions imposed by the company;
- the required documentation;
- the time required to make a reservation.
Skytool thus enables the agency to turn a specific request into a manageable service and a new opportunity to build a relationship with the client.
Dogs weighing up to 30 kg may travel in the cabin without a carrier
The “Large Dog On Board” service is intended for dogs that exceed the standard size limits for transport in a carrier and that weigh up to 30 kg.
In the initial phase, ITA Airways plans to allow a limited number of medium- to large-sized animals on each flight:
- one dog weighing up to 30 kg in Business Class;
- One dog weighing up to 15 kg in Economy Class.
Animals travel in designated areas and must comply with the operating and safety requirements established by the airline.
Reservations must be made in advance and are always subject to availability on the specific flight and verification of the requirements set by ITA Airways.
From a demonstration flight to a passenger service
The project stems from the initiative developed by ITA Airways in collaboration with ENAC.
On September 23, 2025, an inaugural demonstration flight took place between Milan Linate and Rome Fiumicino, during which two large dogs traveled in the cabin—without crates—alongside their respective owners.
The initiative provided an opportunity to conduct a practical assessment of issues related to safety, animal welfare, and passenger management on board.
In November 2025, the operational guidelines were subsequently approved, allowing authorized carriers to sell services for transporting pets weighing up to 30 kg in the cabin.
“Large Dog On Board” thus marks the transition from experimentation to a concrete commercial service.
A simpler trip starts at the travel agency
Traveling with a medium- or large-sized dog requires more attention than simply purchasing a regular airline ticket.
Customers should know:
- whether the service is available on the selected route;
- which seats can be assigned;
- what weight limits must be observed;
- what health and travel documents are required;
- what rules must be followed at the airport and on board;
- by when the request must be submitted.
In this context, the agency once again plays a central role.
It doesn't just find a fare; it helps the customer plan a truly feasible trip by verifying the conditions and properly handling the ticket issuance.
Skytool turns a special request into a tangible service
When a customer walks into the agency and asks:
“Can I bring my dog with me in the cabin?”
The answer should no longer be limited to a simple "yes" or "no."
With Skytool, the operator can manage the passenger’s trip and the dog’s travel arrangements within the same operating environment, offering a more comprehensive, professional service that meets the market’s evolving needs.
This means:
- respond to requests that other agencies might not be able to handle;
- provide better customer service;
- enhance the practitioner’s advisory role;
- expand the range of services offered;
- create new opportunities to build customer loyalty;
- Set your agency apart through expertise and technology.
Don't just sell a seat—make the whole family's trip possible
Tourism is changing.
Travelers are looking for more personalized solutions, greater flexibility, and services that meet their actual needs.
For those who live with a dog, being able to travel together isn't just a minor detail—it can be a prerequisite for taking a trip.
Thanks to ITA Airways’ new initiative and Skytool’s features, the agency can assist the customer with this decision as well, handling the issuance of the dog’s ticket and creating a more comprehensive travel experience.
Skytool. When the family travels, no one has to stay behind.
By Guido Deiana and Daniele Di Stefano
