Hainan Airlines said it will allow pets into the cabin, becoming the first domestic Chinese airline to do so.
Animal owners will be able to fly with some pets but the airline has outlined a number of restrictions.
Firstly, it is not a free service – all pets carried will be subject to a 800 yuan fee, and a maximum of two animals only are allowed on each flight.
The pet must be transported in a carrier which should be small enough to fit under a seat, and a maximum weight of 5kg.
Each owner is required to show certificates of animal vaccinations when making the pet reservation.
A pilot scheme will begin in time for the Lunar New Year holidays for flights to and from nine cities including Guangzhou, Qingdao, Changsha, Haikou and Xiamen.
"It is still on a trial basis, and all feedback will be collected and considered to help improve our cabin service," Hainan Airlines said.
The airline didn’t say whether it will be restricted to just cats and dogs but all animals must wear muzzles and are not permitted to eat or drink throughout the flight.
