Overview

• FSANZ’s amendment to the Food Standards Code took effect after no food ministers requested a review within the prescribed 60-day window.
• FSANZ assessed that microbiological risks from in-cabin cats and dogs are low when proper risk management controls are implemented.
• Virgin Australia will become the first Australian carrier to introduce in-cabin cat and dog travel, with trial flights scheduled on select domestic routes by the end of 2025.
• Under CASA rules, pilots retain the discretion to refuse pet boarding if they judge it could compromise flight safety or operations.
• Passengers must keep pets in Virgin-approved carriers under the seat in front, with combined weight not exceeding 8 kg and travel confined to designated rows.