The world’s first jet charter company exclusively for dogs, BARK Air, has officially taken flight. Created by the dog toy company BARK in partnership with a jet charter service, this luxury airline caters to dogs and their owners, ensuring they travel “in comfort and in style,” according to CEO Matt Meeker.
Revolutionizing Air Travel for Dogs
BARK Air’s website proudly states their mission: “We’re here to revolutionize flying for dogs.” The company aims to provide a top-tier travel experience for canine passengers, treating them as VIPs (Very Important Pups) rather than cargo or an afterthought.
Inaugural Flight Sells Out
The inaugural flight of BARK Air, which departed from New York at 4 p.m. ET heading to Los Angeles, was completely sold out. The airline’s Instagram post highlighted the uniqueness of this flight, emphasizing that dogs are the foremost priority. “Unlike any flight before it, these dogs are not merely an afterthought,” the post read. The effort took a decade to materialize, but BARK Air is now confident in delivering a premier air travel experience for dogs.
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High Demand and Premium Prices
Interest in BARK Air’s service has been high, with flights filling up quickly for June. However, this luxury comes at a cost. A one-way international ticket is priced at $8,000, while a domestic flight costs $6,000. These prices cover both the dog and their owner.
Routes and Services
Currently, BARK Air operates flights from the New York City metro area via Westchester County Airport (HPN) to Los Angeles via Van Nuys (VNY) and to London, England via Biggin Hill (BQH). The airline promises a “white glove experience” typically reserved for humans’ first-class travel, now redirected to pamper pooches.
Onboard Amenities and Comfort
Meeker explains that the airline focuses on reducing anxiety and stress for dogs, ensuring a comfortable and fear-free experience. Dogs are provided with food, water, and even in-air spa treatments. A concierge service learns each dog’s temperament and sensitivities beforehand to determine the best placement on the plane. Dogs are free to sit on seats, with their humans, or on provided beds—no cages or leashes required.
Pre-Flight and In-Flight Facilities
Designated potty areas are available before flights, and emergency pads are provided during the journey. Each flight accommodates 15 dogs and their owners, but BARK Air typically sells no more than 10 tickets per flight to ensure ample space for the dogs to roam.
Restrictions
While additional tickets can be purchased if more than one human needs to accompany a dog, children under 18 are not allowed to fly on BARK Air.
Customer Reactions
The innovative service has garnered positive reactions, with social media users praising the concept. One user described it as the “pawfect flight,” while another commented, “We woof to see this.”
BARK Air’s launch marks a significant step in luxury pet travel, setting a new standard for how dogs and their owners can fly together.