BARK Air Launches First Airline for Dogs: A New Era of Pet Travel
BARK Air officially took flight on Thursday, May 23, marking the inaugural journey of the world’s first airline tailored for dogs and their human companions. The sold-out flight departed from New York at 4:00 p.m. EST and traveled to Los Angeles, signifying a fresh approach to pet-friendly air travel.
Introducing BARK Air: A Dog-Centric Travel Solution
In an announcement made in April, the innovative pet brand BARK introduced its new airline, designed specifically for canine passengers and their accompanying humans. BARK Air aims to mitigate the challenges pets face during travel, which often involve being confined in duffle bags or subjected to the stress of cargo holds.
“Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to a duffle bag, or endure the stress of flying in cargo,” the company stated. They aim to provide a more enjoyable and humane option for dogs traveling with their owners.
Dog-Friendly Amenities on Board
BARK Air prioritizes the comfort and well-being of dogs during flights. The amenities include:
- Gourmet treats
- Comfortable beds and blankets
- Noise-cancelling ear muffs
- A selection of beverages
- Emergency bags with essentials like poop bags
With spacious Gulfstream G5 jets designed to accommodate at least ten dogs and their human companions, BARK Air operates as a public charter service, offering a unique travel experience for pets and their owners.
Tickets and Policies for BARK Air Flights
Each ticket purchased covers one dog along with one human companion. In addition, BARK Air makes a limited number of extra human tickets available for purchase at an additional cost. Dogs of all sizes are welcome, with no specific segregated seating areas for large and small breeds.
However, it’s important to note that children under the age of 18 are not permitted to fly due to concerns about behavioral issues around dogs. BARK Air humorously explains this policy: “According to a recent national poll, 87% of table scraps are dropped by children. Unfortunately, the same poll shows that children are responsible for 100% of tail pulling.”
Future Routes and Pricing
BARK Air intends to expand its routes both domestically and internationally, with a humorous invitation for feedback: “Please let us know if there’s a particular part of the world you want to pee on,” reads the FAQ section of their website.
While the ticket prices start at approximately $6,000, BARK Air assures potential customers that they aim to reduce costs as the airline grows and expands its offerings.
Availability and Booking Information
While the first flight from New York to Los Angeles has sold out, several tickets remain available for flights throughout May. For those interested in booking, you can view all the available routes and flights here.
BARK Air is set to revolutionize the way we think about traveling with pets, emphasizing comfort, safety, and a fun experience for dogs and their human companions alike.
