The European Union’s Court of Justice has ruled that pets should be categorized as luggage rather than passengers when traveling by air. This decision comes after a legal challenge that questioned the classification of animals in the EU’s aviation laws. The court’s ruling emphasizes the need for stricter regulations regarding the transport of pets, ensuring their welfare and compliance with EU safety standards.
While the primary focus of the ruling is on the treatment of pets in air travel, the court also addressed other aviation-related cases. These included disputes over airline liability for lost luggage and the regulation of onboard food and beverage services. The broader implications of these rulings could affect various aspects of the aviation industry, prompting airlines to review their policies and procedures to align with the new legal framework.