JAL tightens domestic pet-cargo acceptance and raises the animal surcharge

Check domestic cargo acceptance before choosing a flight

JAL’s July 16 announcement changed domestic cargo acceptance for dogs and cats from departures on September 1, 2026. The general summer suspension now covers all dogs and cats. In 2026 it runs from September 1 through October 31; in later years, the published period is May 1 through October 31.

Mixed-breed dogs are generally excluded throughout the year from September 1, subject to specified exceptions. Bulldog and French Bulldog restrictions remain separate. JAL warns that some existing bookings may be cancelled.

These notices concern domestic cargo consignments in Japan. They do not establish a blanket ban on pets accompanying passengers through JAL’s separate passenger-pet service, or a new cabin service-dog restriction.

Read the official source: JAL Cargo: July 16 notice on domestic dog and cat restrictions · JAL Cargo: domestic mammal acceptance and exceptions.

An exception needs its own confirmation

JAL lists exceptions for owners travelling on the aircraft who cannot use the passenger-pet service, such as because of weight limits; requests from public bodies or zoos; veterinary travel on remote-island routes; international–domestic connections; and other cases specially accepted by JAL.

JAL requires supporting documents at cargo acceptance; confirm which documents apply to the requested exception. An exception does not remove every breed, route or seasonal condition: the domestic cargo page separately excludes summer dog itineraries involving two or more flight sectors, including onward carriage by another airline, and lists short-nosed breeds that cannot travel in summer. Ask JAL to assess the complete journey.

Read the official source: JAL Cargo: domestic mammal acceptance and exceptions.

The surcharge changed on October 1

JAL announced a domestic live-animal cargo surcharge change effective October 1, 2026. Confirm with JAL which acceptance or shipment date determines the charge. For live animals other than fish, the surcharge rises from 50% to 100% of the general cargo fare.

That changes the fare multiplier from 1.5 times to 2 times the general cargo fare. It does not mean the entire shipment price doubles. Obtain a fresh quote for the accepted animal, route, container and services rather than carrying an earlier estimate forward.

Read the official source: JAL Cargo: July 31 terms amendment and live-animal surcharge.

Confirm the transport format first

Before committing to a flight, establish whether the animal will use the passenger-pet service or a separate cargo booking. Share its breed, age, measurements, loaded crate weight and every connecting flight, then keep the airline’s acceptance and quotation with the travel documents.

For an international relocation with a Japanese domestic connection, include both parts when requesting a route review. Domestic cargo approval and international entry requirements are separate checks.

Read the official source: JAL Cargo: domestic mammal acceptance and exceptions.

Read the official sources

• JAL Cargo: July 16 notice on domestic dog and cat restrictions
• JAL Cargo: domestic mammal acceptance and exceptions
• JAL Cargo: July 31 terms amendment and live-animal surcharge

Sources checked October 12, 2026. Requirements can change. Confirm the instructions for your departure country and travel date with the relevant authority.

All pet travel updates · Country travel guides