BARK Air Launches as The World's First Airline Designed Exclusively for Dogs

Many dog parents face the challenge of traveling long distances with their pets, particularly for dogs that don’t fit into carriers small enough to be placed under the seat in front. Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to duffle bags, or endure the stress of flying in cargo.

BARK Air is here to change all that. Inspired by the white glove service of first-class travel, BARK Air redirects this pampering to pooches. From booking to arrival, in-flight services to disembarkation, dogs will experience a luxurious, curated journey, making them the true VIPs.

holiday vacation jack russell dog waiting in airport terminal ready to board the airplane or plane at the gate, luggage or bag to the side

“When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans. We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK, the same company that brought the world BarkBox.

The first BARK Air flights took off Thursday, May 23rd, from New York. To start, flights will be offered between New York, Los Angeles, and London.

This isn’t just a typical airline experience. Here’s what dogs and their parents can expect when they book a flight with BARK Air:

Personalized Pre-Flight Care: After booking, humans will be contacted by a BARK Air concierge to gather information about each dog and their travel plans to make it the best possible experience.

Streamlined Airport Experience: On travel day, dogs and their companions will arrive at the airport 45 to 60 minutes before takeoff. The check-in process is simple and efficient, allowing dogs to meet their fellow furry travelers while their humans enjoy meals prepared by onsite chefs. Say goodbye to crates, stressful TSA checkpoints, and screenings.

Dog-Centric Boarding: Before boarding, a highly skilled BARK Air concierge will welcome dogs at the gate, helping them settle in through socialization and cabin preparation. The concierge will also assess each dog’s comfort, providing additional attention and care as needed.

Calming Flight Prep: Prior to boarding, the plane undergoes a “Dogs Fly First” flight prep with calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer. Dogs will have access to calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets to make sure the flight is stress-free.

In-Flight Pampering: Once onboard, dogs will be served their beverage of choice during ascent and descent to prevent ear discomfort caused by changes in cabin pressure. Throughout the flight, they will enjoy a variety of BARK-branded treats, snacks, and surprises, ensuring a pampered and enjoyable journey for both dogs and their humans.