Dog standing in a puddle with an umbrella in its mouth

Extreme weather

Australia's climate and weather conditions can vary a great deal from place to place, so it's important to consider the weather forecast prior to travel.

 

Each pet is unique and can react very differently to the environment around them, especially when travelling. Some breeds can experience heightened anxiety levels both prior to and during the flight and extreme weather conditions can further impact pet comfort due to stress. Owners know their pets well and should consider all factors at departure, transfer and arrival ports to determine their pets' suitability to travel. If in doubt, we recommend seeking advice from your vet.   

Extreme weather policy

For the safety and welfare of pets, Qantas Freight will not carry any animals when temperatures are forecast to be above 35°C or below 5°C, or when severe wind or rain is expected for the day of travel. 

In these instances, pets can be rebooked at no additional cost. 

As temperatures can vary significantly within a 24-hour period, on days where the extreme weather policy is in effect, there may be options to accommodate pet travel on other flights which avoid the extreme weather conditions. For example, changing to an early morning or late afternoon/evening flight may be an option if local temperatures are 35°C or below at the scheduled departure and arrival time. Similarly in colder months, flights departing in the warmer parts of the day may allow for pet travel if local temperatures are above 5°C at the scheduled departure and arrival time.   

Please note that we will only uplift pets and animals if the local temperature is 35°C or below, or above 5°C at the time of both departure and arrival. Rapidly changing conditions may require a last-minute rebooking – even on the day of travel – if temperatures unexpectedly fall within the extreme weather policy conditions. When this occurs, your pet will need to be rebooked on an alternative flight.  

To rebook travel, here’s what you need to do: 

  • Up to 24 hours before departure - visit Manage Booking to change your pet’s flight.
  • Within 24 hours prior to departure - call us on 13 12 13.
  • At the terminal -  speak to one of our friendly staff at the counter.

For information on key factors that need to be considered when getting your pet ready to travel, visit RSPCA's website.