Keeping pets safe during air travel

03 Dec 2025

As commercial air travel continues to increase in popularity, it is not just people taking to the skies. In the United States alone, more than two million pets travel on commercial flights each year, and owners expect the highest standards of safety.

Having previously partnered with Intertek to validate the recycled plastic content of its ground-based dog kennels, Petmate, an American manufacturer of pet products, enlisted our support to verify its heavy-duty kennels for air travel.

Our hardlines experts pushed every lock and panel to its limits, recreating a range of scenarios, from claw scratches and heavy impacts to extreme weather and the stress of long-haul transport. After the comprehensive testing process, we were able to verify that these kennels – also made from recycled plastics – are compliant with the latest International Air Transport Association (IATA) Regulations* for live animal transport.

With Intertek’s verification, Petmate can give its customers peace of mind that these products are engineered for strength, sustainability and, ultimately, the safety of their beloved companions.

Learn more about our Pet Products Testing Services.

*Compliant with the standards specified in the 51st edition (2025) of the IATA Live Animals Regulation for live animal transport