A service allowing passengers to travel with their pet dogs in the adjacent seat on flights is gaining popularity in China. Eastern Airlines launched its 'in-cabin pet travel service' in April 2025, allowing dogs to be placed in portable cages under the front seat. Only two dogs are permitted per flight. Pets must wear muzzles and diapers while in the cage, which is covered with a cloth to shield them from view. The service fee is 1,288 yuan (approximately $180).
In the first year of operation, 4,600 customers utilized this service. Customers praised the option, stating, 'I feel much more at ease having my dog beside me instead of in the cargo hold.' As demand grew, Eastern Airlines expanded the service in April 2026, allowing customers to purchase an additional seat to place the cage next to them. The service was also introduced on the Incheon-Qingdao route starting August 11. Currently, pets can travel on flights to 38 cities across China, covering about 660 routes.
This trend reflects more than just unique marketing in the airline industry. In China, an increasing number of people are delaying marriage or choosing not to marry at all, and more couples are deciding against having children. Pets are filling the void left by partners or children.
This shift was evident at the 28th Asia Pet Expo, held from August 19 to 23 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center. Over 2,600 companies participated, marking the largest event to date, with more than 2,000 new products showcased. Innovations such as AI feeding devices, automatic litter boxes, health monitoring gadgets, and pet-specific air purifiers attracted attention. Notably, several companies offering funeral services for aging pets were also present, providing services ranging from transportation to bathing, grooming, memorial videos, cremation, and urn placement.
According to the 2026 China Pet Industry Development Report, the number of pet dogs and cats in China reached 189 million last year, a 0.9% increase from the previous year. During the same period, the pet consumer market grew to 336.5 billion yuan, a 4.3% increase. The market growth rate exceeds the pet population growth rate, indicating that Chinese consumers are spending more on their pets. Pets are significantly filling the emotional and financial gaps left by the costs and burdens associated with marriage and childbirth. The image of a dog sitting in an adjacent seat on a plane and an owner preparing for a farewell at a funeral home exemplifies the realities of low birth rates in China.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.