過去若想帶寵物搭飛機，往往只能選擇讓牠們寄艙，既不便也讓許多飼主感到不安。近年來，一些航空公司開始設計寵物專用座位，讓寵物能與主人同機而行，縮短彼此距離。
而今天要介紹的 BARK Air，則是全球首家專為狗量身打造的航空公司。該公司將於 2024 年 5 月 23 日首航，主打以狗為核心的奢華飛行體驗，徹底顛覆傳統航空對寵物的限制與不便。
BARK Air 是由知名寵物品牌 BARK 的創辦人 Matt Meeker 所推出。創辦這項服務的靈感，來自他已故的大丹犬 Hugo。由於 Hugo 體型過大，無法與主人同艙旅行，Meeker 便立志打造一個真正為狗設計的航空服務。他甚至親身體驗貨艙運輸環境，深刻體會到傳統航空對大型犬的不友善。
BARK Air 的飛行體驗完全以狗為出發點。從登機前開始，狗便能在專屬休息區放鬆，不必經歷繁瑣的安檢流程，還能與其牠狗互動，減輕焦慮情緒。航班起飛前，航空公司會與飼主溝通，瞭解狗的性格與需求，提供客製化服務。
機上安排也根據狗的習性進行調整，配備床墊、毛毯與玩具，營造如同在家般的溫馨環境。飛行途中則提供狗喜愛的飲品與零食，例如雞肉口味的狗狗香檳與特製杯子蛋糕。此外，還會使用薰衣草毛巾、降噪耳罩與舒緩音樂，幫助狗放鬆心情。狗在機艙中也能自由行動，與其他狗互動，享受友善的社交氛圍。雖然以狗為主體設計，BARK Air 同樣重視主人的體驗，包括預先提供的餐點與舒適的座位配置。
目前 BARK Air 提供紐約、洛杉磯與倫敦之間的航班服務。每班航班僅開放 10 對狗與飼主搭乘，確保空間充足與服務品質，也因此票價不斐。對於希望與愛犬一同旅行，並重視寵物舒適與安全的飼主來說，BARK Air 無疑是一個嶄新且創新的服務。
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BARK Air – The World’s First Airline Made Just for Dogs
In the past, flying with a pet usually meant putting them in the cargo area, which was uncomfortable and stressful for both pets and their owners. Recently, some airlines started offering special seats for pets, so they can stay closer to their owners during the flight.Now, BARK Air is introducing something completely new — the world’s first airline designed especially for dogs. It launched its first flight on May 23, 2024, and offers a luxury travel experience focused on dogs. This new airline breaks the usual rules that make it hard to fly with pets.
BARK Air was created by Matt Meeker, the founder of the pet brand BARK. He was inspired by his late Great Dane, Hugo. Hugo was too big to travel in the cabin with Matt, so Matt wanted to build an airline where dogs of all sizes could travel comfortably. To understand what dogs go through, he even tried flying in the cargo area himself, and realized how bad it was for large dogs.
Everything about BARK Air is made with dogs in mind. Before the flight, dogs can relax in a special lounge and skip the usual airport security checks. They can play with other dogs, which helps reduce stress. The airline also talks with the dog’s owner before the flight to learn about the dog’s personality and needs, so they can give personalized care.
On the plane, the cabin is set up for dogs with soft beds, blankets, and toys, making it feel like home. During the flight, dogs get treats like chicken-flavored "dog champagne" and special cupcakes. They also use lavender towels, noise-canceling headphones, and calming music to help dogs stay relaxed. Dogs are free to walk around and interact with others, enjoying a friendly and social atmosphere. Even though the service is focused on dogs, owners also get a good experience, with comfy seats and meals provided.
Right now, BARK Air offers flights between New York, Los Angeles, and London. Each flight is limited to just 10 dogs and their owners, to make sure everyone has enough space and high-quality service. The tickets are expensive, but for pet owners who want to travel with their beloved dogs in comfort and safety, BARK Air is a new and exciting option.
