World's first-ever flight for dogs to take off next month

Bark, a leading company based in the U.S. that mainly provides services for dogs, has recently launched its "Bark Air," the first-ever air travel service that allows dogs to enjoy flying first-class, it announced on its website.

"We are excited to take the insights we've learned over years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastic different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies," said Matt Meeker, co-founder at Bark.

The airline said that passengers can book flights to travel with their dogs from April 11.

There are currently only two flight routes available, from New York’s Westchester County Airport to Los Angeles’s Van Nuys and London’s Stansted airports.

From New York to London’s Stansted Airport, airfare for just one dog and a passenger costs $8,000 one-way and to Los Angeles’s Van Nuys Airport at $6,000 one-way, The Island newspaper reported.

Bark Air passengers can skip security checkpoints and screenings and instead experience a simple check-in process. When boarding, a Bark Air concierge is ready to ensure the dogs adjust to the environment well.

The in-flight experience for pets includes treats, calming aids, noise-canceling earmuffs, and special beverages to prevent discomfort caused by cabin pressure changes, the airline said.

According to Bark Air's regulations, passengers must be 18 years old or older.

Although its planes are designed to accommodate 15 dogs and their owners, Bark Air said it will not sell more than 10 tickets to ensure comfortable space.