Traveling with pets has become simpler for passengers in China, thanks to the country's first dedicated pet terminal at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. Since opening in May 2025, the facility has served hundreds of owners by combining check-in, paperwork, and pet care under one roof, reducing wait times and providing tailored support for animals.
Key services and features
The 2,000-square-meter terminal streamlines the entire travel process. What once took up to seven days for quarantine checks, booking, and crate arrangements now takes about two days, with check-in streamlined to roughly 30 minutes.
Inside, the space includes:
• A VIP lounge for owners with massage chairs and handcrafted coffee.
• Pet-friendly zones with sofas, scratching posts, fresh food stations, and calming essential oils or oxygen cabins for anxious pets.
• A "pet hotel" with themed cat rooms, private dog suites, and smart kennels, offering grooming, boarding, and 24/7 care.
Step-by-step guide
1. Book online: Use WeChat mini-programs like "机场通" or "白云携宠航站楼" to submit pet details, flight info, and service requests 3–7 days in advance.
2. Documents handled: The terminal's team assists with health certificates and airline approvals.
3. Check-in: Head to the dedicated hall near Terminal 1's Gate 29 for weighing, payment, and crate checks; volunteers can help with luggage.
4. Wait or board: Pets can relax in play areas or temporary boarding while owners unwind in the lounge. Upon arrival, animals receive grooming or calming care.
What to remember
• Eligibility: The terminal currently supports domestic flights (e.g., China Southern's Guangzhou-Shanghai "pets-in-cabin" route). International routes are planned for the future.
• Health rules: Pets need up-to-date vaccines and valid health certificates. Avoid prohibited breeds or oversized animals.
• Behavior: Keep pets leashed, carry cleanup supplies, and follow staff guidance to ensure a calm environment.
• Special needs: Elderly, young, or pets with health issues should see a vet beforehand; terminal staff can provide custom support if notified.
As pet ownership grows in China, airports and airlines are expanding animal-friendly services, from in-cabin flights to dedicated lounges in cities like Hangzhou and Shanghai. Guangzhou's terminal reflects a shift toward standardizing pet travel, making it faster, safer, and less stressful for all.
International travelers should still check their destination's quarantine rules and entry requirements, as policies vary widely.
Author | Feng Huiting
Photo | Nanfang Plus
Editor | Liu Lingzhi, James Campion, Shen He
