Thiruvananthapuram Airport Plans Pet Import-Export Facilities by 2028

Thiruvananthapuram: The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is planning to establish a pet import/export facility within its new cargo complex. The facility will include an animal quarantine center and will be constructed as a part of the new expansions at the airport. 

According to an airport official, the facility was included in the first phase of the expansion plans which are set to be completed by 2028 and will be set up according to the specifications issued by the animal quarantine and certification services (AQCS). 

Passengers who wish to bring their pet dogs and cats from overseas must apply online for a NOC seven days before their departure. Passengers will require their pet’s vaccination record and microchipping certificate to receive an advance NOC.Upon arrival, a final NOC will be issued if the pet is healthy; if the pet is unhealthy, it will be shifted to quarantine. 

As of now, pets cannot be imported or exported from the airport, despite there being demand from passengers. Pets can still be carried on domestic flights, but the international pet travel facilities are yet to be established. In the meantime, Cochin International Airport recently set up the facilities for international pet travel, making it the first airport in Kerala to do so.