A new flight service called RetrievAir is set to launch soon, and it’s designed with your dog in mind. This service is redefining air travel by offering dog-friendly flights, where your pet is not just allowed but treated like a VIP passenger.
RetrievAir, launching from Republic Airport in East Farmingdale, will offer a unique flying experience where dogs can sit side-by-side with their owners in the cabin.
The planes, which are limited to just 30 seats, are tailored for a comfortable atmosphere.
CEO Benton Miller explains the concept behind RetrievAir:
"You're able to have your pup hop on with you. You can buy them a ticket, and have them in the seat right next to you," he says. This is a big departure from the cramped and stressful conditions many pets face when flying with traditional airlines, where they’re often confined to cramped carriers in cargo holds. RetrievAir’s smaller planes and terminals, like the one at Republic Airport, aim to provide a more relaxed and intimate travel experience for both pets and their owners.
But this luxury comes at a cost. A round-trip flight for two adults and one dog from Farmingdale to West Palm Beach, Florida, will set you back nearly $3,000.
While the price may seem steep, dog owners like Kristina Gonzalvo, who has a 6-month-old Bernese Mountain Dog named Barkley, believe it’s worth every penny.
"The way the flights are right now, it's probably a bargain because you get your dog with you and you get that comfort. So I would pay for it," she says.
RetrievAir is already accepting reservations, and its first flights will begin in May. So if you're eager to travel with your best friend in tow, the wait is almost over.