Due to tail-wagging demand and pawsitive feedback from guests and team members, Virgin Australia will extend the Pets in Cabin trial until 30 June 2026 on flights between Melbourne and Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast and allow cats on board all eligible services for the first time.
From 31 January 2026, cats can fly on all eligible Pets in Cabin domestic services – not just Melbourne–Sunshine Coast flights.
The initial program launched on 16 October 2025 and was due to wind up this month, but with demand well above forecasts, VA will extend the trial with plans to expand to other eligible domestic flights in the coming months.
Over the Christmas period alone, more than 300 dogs and cats flew on Pets in Cabin flights, highlighting the interest among pet owners who want to holiday or travel with their furry friends.
Virgin’s Chief Marketing & Customer Operations Officer Libby Minogue said the response has exceeded expectations.
“Our decision to extend the trial until June this year reinforces the value of innovating around what our guests care about, and we know that they care deeply about travelling with their pets,” she said.
“We’ve not only received strong, positive feedback from pet owners, but also guests travelling without pets.
“As we continue to build on the success of Pets in Cabin flights over the coming months, we look forward to expanding the service to other eligible domestic flights soon,” she said.
Pets in Cabin flights through to 30 June 2026 are now available to book.
For more info, visit virginaustralia.com
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