First Airline Made For Dogs Pampers Fifi With Tail-Wagging, Luxury Experience
Image via BARK Air
The goodest boys and girls will be dog-tired no more. Setting tails a-wagging and snouts to the wind, BARK Air—an airline launched by data-driven dog toy and snack brand BARK—has landed as a pioneer in pet-centric aviation. Designed with canines at the forefront and their human companions heeling along, this unique carrier promises a journey high above the usual kennel and cargo experiences.
Dogs facing travel dilemmas due to size or restrictions can now enjoy a “white paw” flight aboard the public charter as pampered passengers. With custom lay-flat beds, calming pheromones, in-flight entertainment tailored for their enjoyment, and an in-air dog park named ‘Tail Winds’ on the way, pooches are in for a treat. Their human counterparts, though playing second fiddle, are also catered to.
Every detail in BARK Air’s service architecture screams “dog-first.” From the moment of booking, to the light-up ‘Belly Rubs’ signal and bathroom occupancy sign of a doggo doing its business, and the unique ‘Toilet Water’ doggie champagne, humans’ best friends are the undisputed VI-Pups. Each ticket includes a complimentary human pass, ensuring that every canine has a familiar face alongside during their high-flying experience.
Image via BARK Air / PR Newswire
Matt Meeker, co-founder and CEO at BARK, explains the satisfaction of pivoting from walks on the ground to journeys in the skies.
“When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans. We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs—from the ground to the skies,” says Meeker.
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BARK Air initially serves the New York City metro area from Westchester County Airport (HPN), with flights to Los Angeles via Van Nuys (VNY) and to London via Stansted Airport (STN). An Argus Platinum-rated charter company will take charge of all aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance, while BARK focuses solely on delivering a first-class experience to help all passengers paws and relax.
Video screenshot via BARK Air
The day of travel promises ease and excitement. Dogs and their humans are invited to check in 45 to 60 minutes before departure, enjoying a meal prepared by onsite chefs rather than the standard airport fare. A BARK Air concierge meets every canine at the gate, providing pre-flight socialization and ensuring each dog is calm and ready for the journey. Onboard, dogs are offered specialized treats and toys, while humans get updated throughout the flight about their pet’s comfort and any needs that might arise.
Video screenshot via BARK Air
While the concept might sound over-the-top to some, it reflects a growing desire of integrating pets more deeply into our lifestyle choices. BARK Air’s flights will accommodate up to 15 dogs and their humans, but will limit bookings to just 10 tikets to ensure ample space and a serene environment.
Video screenshot via BARK Air
With routes connecting major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and London, and the first flight gearing up to take off from New York on May 23, it’s soon time for a fetching adventure above ground.
Video screenshot via BARK Air
Video screenshot via BARK Air
[via USA Today, Fast Company, Little Black Book, images via BARK Air]
