Bark, a dog toy company, has launched a jet charter service that promises “white paw service.” However, round-trip airfare for a dog and its owner can cost as much as $16,000.
The company, called BARK Air, is best known for BarkBox, a subscription service packed with pet toys and treats, and aims to solve problems that often arise when humans travel with their fur babies.
Small dogs can usually ride in a carrier placed under the seat in front of them, but larger dogs have to go through the stressful experience of being placed in a crate in the cargo area of an airplane.
“We’re excited to leverage the insights we’ve learned over the years to create a truly dog-first experience, from ground to sky, that’s much different than just hosting dogs.” BARK CEO said: press release Thursday.
BARK Air’s first flight will depart from New York’s Westchester County Airport to Los Angeles’ Van Nuys Airport on May 23.
There are currently only two flight routes available, both from Westchester County Airport to Van Nuys Airport ($6,000 one-way for one dog and one human) or to London Stansted Airport ($8,000 one-way). is.
After booking, humans connect with a BARK concierge assigned to collect information about four-legged passengers to ensure the best possible experience during long-haul flights.
But the New York-based airline said it will not only be pet-friendly, but will treat four-legged passengers just like first-class passengers.
According to Bark Air, on the day of travel, dogs and their owners only need to arrive at the airport 45 minutes before their scheduled flight time for a “simple and efficient check-in process. There aren’t many TSA checkpoints.” Website.
From there, the concierge takes the dogs to their cabins, which are equipped with comforts such as music, warm lavender-scented refreshment towels, and pheromones (scents that mimic natural chemicals that help animals communicate).
As part of BARK’s “Dogs Fly First” flight preparations, treats, noise-cancelling earmuffs, and calming jackets are also provided to ensure each dog is comfortable during takeoff.
Dogs are given a drink during takeoff and descent to help their ears get used to the cabin pressure.
“We believe this initiative will raise awareness of BARK’s mission in a cost-effective manner,” said Zahir Ibrahim, BARK’s Chief Financial Officer. “While we do not intend to book flights too far in advance, we do have the flexibility to arrange charter flights on a case-by-case basis during periods of high demand.”
However, users on social media criticized the high fares.
“I was very excited about this, but the $6,000 price tag took me by surprise. I hope they can make this more affordable in the future,” one user commented on the BARK Air . Instagram post Introducing luxury airlines.
“I’d love to see data that convinces me that $12,000 round trip tickets are a viable business model and worth promoting to the general public,” said another.
A third said the $6,000 to $8,000 one-way fare was “ridiculous.”
It was not immediately clear which jet charter companies BARK partners with for pet-friendly travel.
The Post has reached out to BARK for comment.
