Carrier Requirements & Policies: South African Airways
Acceptance
ESA (Emotional Support Animals): Accepted with Conditions
PSA (Psychiatric Support Animals): Accepted
Service Animals: Accepted
PSA (Psychiatric Support Animals): Accepted
Service Animals: Accepted
Quick Checklist (Bring to the Airport)
Required Documentation & Gear (must bring)
- Physical ID Card (animal + handler identification).
- Recognition Gear: Service Animal vest, bandana, or harness.
- All airline-required pre-approval forms.
- Vaccination Records including rabies certificate.
- Microchip matching all documents.
- Veterinary Health Certificate.
Preferred Documentation (greatly facilitates acceptance and pre-clearance)
- Registration Certificate (our registry is accepted by all airlines).
- Prescription Letter for PSA or Service Animal.
- Behavior Certificate.
Steps to Take (in Order)
- After booking, notify airline of your Service Animal (or ESA on eligible USA routes).
- Submit required documents and any special-assistance requests in advance.
- Bring printed and digital copies of all approvals and health documents.
Route Limitations (Service Dogs)
- Service Dogs accepted on most routes, in cabin, subject to advance approval and local entry rules.
- PSAs may be carried as task-trained Service Dogs where permitted; additional review may apply.
- ESAs are only considered on specific routes (e.g., to/from the USA) under South African Airways’ stated conditions; on other routes they may need to travel as pets in the hold if allowed.
Forms & Official Policy (Links)
Source: Airline’s official “Travelling with Animals” and special-assistance guidance (South African Airways).