With only two days until the first Virgin Australia Pets in Cabin flight takes off, the airline’s loyalty program Velocity Frequent Flyer, has today announced that members can redeem Velocity Points to book their furry friends (small dogs and/or cats only)* on the new services.
For an introductory offer of just 18,600 Velocity Points per flight (in addition to their own fare), members can make a booking for a small dog or cat to travel with them in the cabin, making it easier than ever to include their pet in the next family holiday.
Announced last month, Virgin Australia will operate Australia’s first ever flights with pets on board on services between Melbourne and the Gold Coast and Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast (both directions) from this Thursday, 16 October 2025.
Velocity Frequent Flyer Chief Executive Officer, Nick Rohrlach said: “Australians love their pets and we’re thrilled to make it even easier for families to travel together,” said Mr Rohrlach.
“Velocity is committed to expanding the way members can redeem their Points. By opening up Points redemptions for the Pets in Cabin service, we’re giving our members another reason to choose Virgin Australia for every member of the family, including the four-legged ones,” he said.
With almost 70 per cent of Australian households owning a pet, Virgin Australia has already experienced a surge in pet bookings, showing the popularity of the new service.
Important information on the Pets in Cabin service:
- Pet type: Small dogs or cats only.* Please note, cats will not initially be permitted on flights between Melbourne and the Gold Coast.
- Pet limit: A limit of four (4) pets weighing under 8kgs (combined with the carrier) will be permitted on each eligible flight.
- Carrier requirements: Pets must travel in an approved soft-sided leak-proof carrier measuring no more than 44 centimetres (L) x 26 centimetres (W) x 28 centimetres (H). The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 8 kilograms. Absorbent mats must be placed inside the carrier when travelling. Suitable carriers are available for purchase from leading pet supply retailers.
- Pet containment: Pets must be secured in a pet carrier which must be stowed under the seat in front of the owner for the duration of the flight. Pets are not permitted outside of the carrier at any time whilst onboard the aircraft.
- Seating allocation: Guests travelling with pets will be seated in window seats in two designated rows only (seats 18A and 18F and 20A and 20F).
- Vaccination proof: Pets must be up to date with vaccinations prior to travel.
- Health and safety: Pets with existing health conditions, including those that are pregnant, are recovering from surgery or injury, are between 8-12 weeks of age, are over 12 years of age or are brachycephalic breed, must have a veterinary-issued certificate confirming the pet is ready to fly. Pets under eight (8) weeks old are unable to travel.
- Allergy-safe seating: Virgin Australia aircraft are fitted with advanced air filtration systems removing 99 percent of airborne particles including pet dander, providing peace of mind for guests with allergies, even when seated near pets. Additionally, guests with allergies can choose alternative seating in the same cabin class, free of charge.
- Lounge access: In accordance with the food standards regulations, pets are not permitted in any food and beverage service areas, including Virgin Australia Lounges.
- Booking the service: To book a Pets in Cabin service using Velocity Points on flights between Melbourne and the Gold Coast and Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast, guests will need to call the Velocity Frequent Flyer Member Contact Centre on 13 18 75.
