Pet Airways launches world's first pets-only flights
(16 July 2009)Pet Airways, the world's first ever pets-only airline, launched this week.
The animal-loving airline's inaugural flight saw 50 pets fly from New York to Los Angeles on Tuesday.
Travelling pets were attended to by former vets and animal shelter volunteers, who ensure "pawsenger" comfort with pre-flight walks and regular onboard meal and "potty" breaks.
"Pawsengers" can be booked in online and are checked into a Pet Lounge at the airport.
Owners are not allowed onboard but can follow their pets' travel progress using the online "pet tracker".
Company founders Dan Wiesel and Alysa Binder said the idea for a pets-only airline came to them when planning holidays with their dog, Zoe.
"Currently, most pets travelling by air are transported in the cargo hold and are handled as baggage," said Mr Wiesel.
"The experience is frightening to the pets, and can cause severe emotional and physical harm, even death. This is not what most pet owners want to subject their pets to, but they have had no other choice, until now."
Pet Airways serves New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles, and charges from $149 (£91) for a one-way fare, which is comparable to pet fees charged by the largest US airlines.
Watch Pet Airways' video.
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