The First U.S. Dog Airline Is Ready for Takeoff, but a Ticket Will Set You Back a Hefty Amount
Flying with your dog can often be an additional headache on top of the many issues people encounter while traveling. But a new airline is seeking to flip the pup-flying experience on its head, making our furry friends the priority instead of humans.
Bark Air, the first U.S.-based airline that puts pets before people, is set for its inaugural flight from New York to Los Angeles on May 23. Bark was first founded in 2011 and has sold dog food and other products, and it announced its new flying experience back in April. It joins U.K.-based charter company K9, which also lets passengers' pets travel with them in the cabin.
"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," Bark co-founder and CEO Matt Meeker said at the time, per CBS News. "We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand's mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the Bark family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world."
The aircraft will have a "dog-centric" cabin configuration to allow for comfort and socialization for both man and best friend. Your fur baby will get a truly first-class flying experience, complete with treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and a drink of their choice, among other perks.
Related: How to Travel With Your Dog
For now, Bark Air's only domestic route is between New York City and Los Angeles, while its sole international flights are between NYC and London. If you're interested, be prepared to fork over a big chunk of change. A one-way flight from New York to LA in June will set you back $6,000 for one dog and one human. If you want to go across the pond, be ready to cough up $8,000 for one ticket.
Earlier this month, Meeker pointed out that the initial astronomical prices will come down at some point as demand increases.
"This is cost-prohibitive for most families, but less expensive than most options today. And this is also how most innovative products and services began," he said, per CBS. "Televisions, telephones, VCRs and DVD players, to automobiles, train, and boat travel, and, yes, even human air travel—all of these started with very high prices until demand was proven and the costs could be brought lower by serving the masses."
Until then, you can try getting your pet in cabin on a regular commercial flight or stuff them in cargo.
