Colombia reportedly wants the United Nations’ global aviation agency to consider setting international regulations for the safety of pets on planes. According to Reuters, the South American country has proposed that the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) take action to establish safety regulations for animals hitting the airways.
The organization has 193 “member states” that are countries around the world, and its purpose is to foster international air mobility and networks. While member states are not required to adopt the ICAO’s rules, Reuters reports that participating countries usually do.
“Colombia is talking about this because in our country there were a few cases that adversely impacted the health of pets,” said Mauricio Ramirez Koppel, an ICAO representative from Colombia, to Reuters. “We found that there is no guide on the part of ICAO that establishes standards and rules for the adequate transport of pets and living beings.”
Colombia’s pet-friendly aviation proposal is reportedly backed by over 20 other countries in Latin America and Europe.
What Else Is There To Know About Pets On Planes And Colombia’s Proposal?
Traveling with pets is common, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy, straightforward, or even without concern. Although pet parents may worry about traveling with their animal companions, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) reports that instances of animal harm are extremely low. For context, the department’s 2024 Air Travel Consumer report (released in March 2025) said that for the calendar year, “carriers reported 10 animal deaths, injuries to three other animals, and zero lost animals, for a total of 13 incidents.”
The source noted that the latter number represented an increase from 2023, when nine animal incidents were reported. Additionally, the DOT disclosed that airlines transported 161,335 animals in 2024 compared to 124,593 in 2023.
ICAO is reportedly scheduled to meet from September 23 through October 3 during its triennial assembly.
