ITA Airways on Tuesday ran a demonstrative flight between Milan and Rome in which two large dogs were able to travel with their owners inside the cabin.
    It was the first time big dogs of over 10 kilos were able to fly without being put into a crate.
    The flight, which landed at Rome's Fiumicino airport at 10:20, had aboard Moka, a 12-year-old Labrador who travelled in business class, and Honey, an 11 year-old mongrel weighing around 15 kg who was in economy class.
    The dogs flew next to their owners, held by a leash on a mat under a seat next to a window.
    ITA had already broken new ground on the pet-friendly front in June 2024 by increasing the space dedicated to animals and raising the allowed weight of the animals from eight to 10 kilos, plus two kilos for the crate.

Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini and ITA Airways Chairman Sandro Pappalardo were on the flight with Moka and Honey.

"It's a day of civility, beauty, and education," Salvini said.
    "Italy is at the forefront.
    "No passengers were disturbed.
    "I was seated behind the Labrador, Moka, who slept from start to finish on her mat and with her bowl.
    "Beforehand, many owners would cancel their flights because they didn't trust leaving their pets in the hold.
    "Today, however, with vaccinations, chips, and maximum comfort, we are sending out a great signal of civility that looks to the future."
   

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