Bark Air promises a first-class ride for your pet — for a hefty fee

09.05.2024 - 22:41 / thepointsguy.com / Airlines

Many airlines allow dogs onboard, with a lot of restrictions, while other airlines take large dogs as cargo.

Soon, though, dogs of all sizes will be able to fly between New York and Los Angeles or between New York and London in high style. Bark Air's scheduled charter flights are just for pooches and their people.

Bark — the canine-centric company known for its treat-filled BarkBox subscriptions — is offering this experience to flyers who do not want to (or cannot) squeeze their dogs into under-the-seat carriers on commercial flights. These flights are also aimed at travelers who refuse to ship their pups as cargo in airplane holds.

"We think dogs should be right next to you on the seat, getting the same or — in our case — even better treatment and experiences than people do," Dave Stangle, Bark's vice president of brand marketing, said.

Other groups have tried this model and failed.

However, for its new dog-focused scheduled air service, Bark is partnering with private jet charter company Talon Air. It promises a "white glove experience typical of a human's first-class experience," complete with car service to and from the airport and concierge guidance throughout the experience.

Before a flight, Bark Air's concierge will gather information about the dog and its travel preferences.

On the day of the flight, dogs and their flying companions only need to show up an hour before the flight with their travel documents — including government-issued IDs for humans and vaccination records for dogs. Because this is a private jet service, Bark Air passengers get to skip the TSA lines and screening.

During the flight, dogs will not need to stay in any sort of crate or carrier. Instead, they can lounge on the floor, sit on laps or seats or mingle in the play area with other dogs. Like seat belts, leashes are required when the plane is taxiing, taking off or landing as well as during any turbulence.

To make the flights as dog-friendly as can be, Bark Air will stock the jet cabins with calming aids for pups, including "pheromones, music, warm lavender scented refreshment towels" and other comforts.

During takeoff and landing, dogs will be offered a "beverage of their choice," such as water or bone broth, to help with ear discomfort due to changes in cabin pressure. There will even be "just in case" bags on board with calming treats, poop bags and more.

The crew will serve treats to dogs, and there will be snacks and a full bar for people.

"We also have earphones made for dogs that are designed to drown out the noise going on around them," Stangle said.

As for the aircraft, Bark Air flights will be on long-range Gulfstream jets.

On these jets, "the cabin is considered stand-up, which means it is at least 6 feet