Introduction
The travel crate is your pet's "temporary home" for the entire flight — and it's the item airlines inspect most closely. A crate too small by even an inch can be rejected at check-in. This guide from Convey explains the IATA crate standard, how to measure your pet for the right size, and the rejection checklist that airlines run through.
What the IATA crate standard is
IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) is the international rulebook most airlines follow. It specifies materials, dimensions, ventilation, and structural strength. Acceptable materials include metal, hard plastic, wood, or welded wire mesh of sufficient strength (twin-shell plastic crates are the most popular for typical dogs and cats).
Note: For breeds classified as particularly strong or aggressive, you may need a reinforced crate per CR82 specifications. Convey will flag this if your case applies.
The 3-measurement formula for sizing the crate
The right crate is sized by measuring your pet, then calculating crate dimensions — not guessed from body weight. Measure these three values while your pet is standing.
| Measurement | How to measure | Calculation |
|---|---|---|
| A = Length | From nose tip to base of tail | Crate length ≥ A + front leg length |
| B = Height | Floor to top of head or ear tips | Crate height ≥ B (head/ears must not touch ceiling) |
| C = Width | Widest point of body | Crate width ≥ C × 2 |
The core criterion is that your pet must be able to stand, sit, turn around, and lie down comfortably in a natural posture, with no head or ear contact against the ceiling.
Ventilation
The crate must have ventilation openings totaling at least ~16% of the wall area, with vents on all four sides. The openings must be small enough that nose and paws cannot poke through.
Rejection checklist — what airlines look for
Before you reach the counter, verify all six of these.
- Crate is too small — pet can't stand or turn comfortably, or ears touch the ceiling
- Door doesn't latch securely — bolts and latches must lock firmly with no risk of opening in transit
- Wheels still attached — crates with wheels need them removed or fully locked
- Missing 4-sided ventilation — some models only have front vents, which fail
- No food/water cups attached to door — must be refillable from outside
- Missing "Live Animal" labels and owner info — including arrows for orientation
Getting your pet used to the crate before flying
A compliant crate isn't enough on its own. If your pet is anxious about the crate, the Convey team recommends acclimation weeks in advance.
- Place the crate in your home for several weeks beforehand, letting your pet enter and exit freely
- Put treats, toys, or a blanket carrying the owner's scent inside to build familiarity
- Gradually increase time spent inside until your pet treats it as a safe space