An airline (almost) exclusively for dogs. Under this premise it has just been launched Bark Air in the United States, an airline that comes to revolutionize the world of travel Of pets.
It’s not actually a regular airline: dog toy company Bark partnered with an airplane rental service to improve the animals’ experience on long trips.
“Bark Air is the world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first and their human companions second, allowing them travel together comfortably and conveniently”says the official statement announcing the launch of this new venture.
Long-distance trips with a dog are challenging, especially for larger animals that don’t fit in an under-seat carrier. Sometimes they are denied boarding or have to endure the stress of flying in cargo.
This is what Bark Air wants to start changing, giving priority to animals and establishing “a new standard for dogs those who love to travel but have been forced to settle for less than ideal travel conditions.”
First flights and prices
“Finally, dogs can fly. We’re here to revolutionize dog flying. “A 100% real airline for dogs.” It is impossible not to see this sign as soon as we open the site of this new aerial proposal.
His first journeys will start on May 23 and, in principle, it will operate two routes: from New York to Los Angeles and from New York to London.
Los tickets are now available for the online reservations here.
This is what the Bark Air website looks like. CaptureHow much does it cost? The ticket from New York to London Stansted Airport costs US$8,000 each way, and includes a place for the pet and its human companion.
The ticket from New York to Van Nuys airport in Los Angeles starts at US$6,000 each way.
Part of the explanation for the high rate is that the flight has capacity for 15 dogs and their owners, although the company says that they prefer to fly only with 10 to guarantee the best care and space for everyone.
From Bark Air they hope “over time to significantly reduce the cost of tickets as we scale”
What is the flight like?
Once the reservation is made, “a Bark Air concierge will contact the humans to collect information about each dog and the travel plans of its humans to guarantee the best possible experience,” the company explains.
On the day of travel, dogs and their companions must arrive at the airport between 45 and 60 minutes before takeoff to complete a registration process. It is the moment when “the dogs will be able to meet other furry friends on your flight while your passengers enjoy meals prepared by the local chefs.” No boxes or stress.
Under the concept Dogs Fly Firstthe plane will be specially prepared for the experience, including relaxing pheromones, music and colors, calming treats and jackets, snacks, noise-canceling earmuffs and more.
Are straps used? “Like the seat belt rules on any standard flight, dogs must remain on a leash while the plane is taxiing, taking off, landing, or if any turbulence is expected,” they explain on the website. For the rest of the flight, straps are optional.