Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon has once again publicly expressed her disappointment with Air India, this time targeting the airline's pet travel policies. The actress took to social media platform X to voice her concerns, suggesting that the Tata Group-owned carrier is becoming less accommodating for passengers travelling with their animal companions.
Raveena Tandon's Social Media Critique
In a strongly worded post, Raveena Tandon highlighted her disappointment with the recent changes. She specifically mentioned the legacy of the Tata group and Ratan Tata's known affection for dogs and animals, expressing surprise at the airline's current direction. The actress pointed out two major concerns: a significant price hike for carrying pets and a new restriction that prevents passengers from travelling with pets in the cabin while flying business class.
"A real let down for all those who travel with their pets, who are better behaved than most humans," Tandon concluded in her post, which quickly gained attention across social media platforms.
Air India's Response and Previous Criticism
Air India responded promptly to the actress's criticism on the same platform. The airline's official handle replied: "Dear Ma'am, thank you for highlighting this to us. Let us review and connect with you." This indicates the company is taking the feedback seriously and may reconsider its pet travel regulations.
This marks the second time in recent months that Tandon has called out Air India regarding their pet policies. Last month, the actress had shared an article about Akasa Air's pet-friendly approach, urging Air India to take note. In that instance, she stated that Air India sometimes puts 'pet parents through a lot of inconvenience' while praising pets as better behaved than some human passengers.
Comparing Airline Pet Policies in India
The controversy highlights the varying approaches Indian airlines take toward pet travel. Air India's current policy allows domestic dogs and cats on both domestic and select international flights. Pets can travel as checked baggage or via cargo, depending on their weight, carrier size, and destination.
For in-cabin travel, Air India mandates that the combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 7 kg (15 lb). The airline also has specific requirements regarding container size and ventilation. Pets weighing between 7-32 kg, including their container, must travel as checked baggage in the cargo hold.
Meanwhile, Akasa Air has emerged as a more pet-friendly alternative for domestic flights. Under their 'Pets on Akasa' program, the airline permits cats and dogs aged three months or older to travel. A maximum of three pets are accommodated per flight, with two allowed in the cabin and one in the cargo compartment.
As more Indians travel with their pets, airline policies regarding animal companions are coming under increased scrutiny. The ongoing dialogue between celebrities like Raveena Tandon and major carriers like Air India may lead to positive changes for pet parents across the country.
