No crates are needed for your best buddy aboard BARK Air, a new, one-of-a-kind public charter airline created exclusively for dogs and their humans. Launched in May 2024, its inaugural flight of four-legged passengers and their companions took off from Westchester County Airport in a Gulfstream G5 jet and landed in Los Angeles, introducing a new level of pet pampering.
CEO Matt Meeker sees his brainchild company as a more fun and humane alternative for pet travel — and he thinks it’s a service long overdue. His evidence is the numerous sold-out flights, even with a $6,000 price tag for a cross-country ticket. We asked Meeker about this unique “Dogs Fly First” idea; one he hopes will make tails wag and owners relax.
What inspired you to start a dog-centered airline?
BARK Air is the world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second, enabling them to travel together comfortably and conveniently. Traveling long distances with a dog is a challenge many dog parents face, particularly those whose pets don’t fit into a carrier that has to be placed under a seat. Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to a duffle bag, or endure the stress of flying in cargo.
What is the boarding and in-flight experience like for the dogs and their humans?
On flight days, dogs and their humans arrive at the airport an hour before the flight for a quick check-in and security process at our private terminal. Our BARK concierges are on site to welcome you and your pup; staff take your bags, and there is a private lounge where dogs can meet and greet and get acquainted with fellow human passengers. Humans and dogs enjoy snacks while they review the “just in case” list and safety guidelines before receiving their BARK Air ticket and PupPassport with boarding number.
In the air, dogs are served their beverage of choice — either doggie champagne (organic chicken bone broth), puppuccino, or water, during ascent and descent to ensure they do not experience any ear discomfort commonly caused by changes in cabin pressure. Additionally, they are served a variety of BARK-branded treats, snacks, and surprises, including spa treatments throughout the flight, with the intent of pampering our furry passengers. When the seat belt sign is off, dogs can mingle with other dogs and humans as long as everyone nearby is comfortable, and the dogs remain under voice control.
What have been some of the biggest challenges in offering this service? How do you handle a “ruff” customer?
A “ruff” customer is typically handled before we even board the plane, so there are no surprises in the air. When a customer books a flight with BARK Air, they are connected with our pup intake team who ask important questions about the dog’s temperament and [its] comfort level with being approached by humans to ensure a stress-free travel experience.
What feedback have you received from customers or employees?
We’ve received lots of great feedback from customers about how well-behaved and entertaining the dogs are on board. There was one instance of a barking choir that stands out to me. It started with one dog, until all the dogs in the cabin joined in. Eventually, the dogs chilled out and the humans on board were laughing, because it was a reminder that we are here for the dogs.
Who is your target customer and what kind of demand have you received so far?
Ultimately, BARK Air is for anyone looking for an unforgettable travel experience with their dog. So far, we have seen BARK Air customers range from dog parents taking their dogs on vacation, including those who travel from Los Angeles to New York to summer in the Hamptons. We’ve also heard feedback from customers that BARK Air is a stress-free way to relocate with your dog. The interest and enthusiasm around BARK Air to date has been overwhelming.
Vision for the future? More destinations, loyalty programs, partnerships?
Our goal today is to build something great for dogs and their people to travel together in a comfortable, fun, and affordable way. Over time, our goal is to expand to make this service available to everyone who wants to travel with their dog, across any route, at more affordable prices.
Personally, how have the dogs that came into your life changed you?
Dogs are at the center of everything we do at BARK. Although we didn’t launch till this year, BARK Air has been on my mind since 2011 when I was inspired by my desire to travel with my late Great Dane, Hugo. Throughout his life, I repeatedly missed out on so much time with him due to the lack of reasonable, safe, and comfortable options for air travel. I’m sad that he’s not alive to experience it, but he would be proud that millions of his friends will have opportunities he did not have.
