SATA has already transported 496 assistance pets duly identified as such, and only in the first seven months of this year,
This number is higher than in previous years, as in 2021 and 2022, the airlines transported 296 and 452 care pets, respectively.
SATA thus fully complies with the regulations of Decree-Law 74/2007 of March 27, establishing the right of persons with sensory, mental, organic, and motor disabilities to access places, transport, and public establishments accompanied by assistance dogs.
Concerning the transport of emotional support dogs, without specific training and not recognized by Portuguese and European legislation, they are no longer allowed in the SATA Group and many other European air carriers; the increased safety risks arising from the acceptance of animals without specific training and without being accommodated in a carrier box in the aircraft cabin.
If passengers wish to be accompanied by assistance pets, provided that they comply with the requirements for their transportation, SATA will be fully available to do the said transport.
SATA offers this service by complying with the requirements associated with it by passengers. Of these, we highlight:
— Booking the transportation of the assistance dog at least 48 hours before departure;
— Sending to the company, with the same anticipation, the documentation that certifies the status of the assistance dog so that it is possible to confirm the transportation;
— The assistance dog must visibly carry the badge classifying it as such;
— The assistance dog will be assessed at the airport to ensure compliance with the safety requirements for final approval of its transportation.
The airline provides its passengers with all the information regarding the specificity of this transport in https://www.azoresairlines.pt/en/information/special-services/travelling-with-pets and the requirements necessary to carry out the said transport of assistance pets.