There’s a Cat Flying Business Class and It’s the Main Character Today
A grey-and-white cat named Todd went viral after being filmed flying business class on a long-haul flight from Istanbul to Chicago. The video, posted by the TikTok account louieandtodd, shows him resting while being served shrimp and salmon.
The clip, which gained over 1.2 million likes and nearly 20,000 comments, quickly became a trending topic. Viewers were fascinated by how calm and at ease he looked mid-flight. While most cats fly in carriers under airplane seats, Todd’s situation appeared far more luxurious and possibly arranged under special circumstances.
Todd Traveled in Full Business Class Comfort
In the video, Todd lay on a padded blue blanket in a wide, lie-flat seat commonly found in international premium cabins. The feline’s appearance outside the carrier suggests this flight followed nonstandard arrangements.
It’s possible that his human received special permission or booked a configuration that ensured more freedom. Todd’s posture showed clear signs of relaxation, something animal behavior experts say reflects proper preparation, stress-free conditions, and familiarity with travel routines.
Airline Rules Allow Cats but with Restrictions
Many viewers speculated that Todd was flying with Turkish Airlines based on the cabin layout, lighting, and seat configuration shown in the clip. The curved seat shell, spacious tray setup, and in-flight service all matched what’s seen in their long-haul upper-class cabins. Turkish Airlines is known for its pet-friendly policies, but what this cat was doing wouldn’t typically be allowed under regular circumstances.
Major airlines do allow cats to stay in the cabin, though under strict conditions. Pet reservations must be made separately, usually over the phone, and well in advance. Most airlines also limit the number of pets permitted per flight.
In addition to this, carriers must be leak-proof, fit under the seat in front, and not exceed a combined weight of about 17 pounds. Even emergency row seats and those without under-seat storage cannot be used by passengers with animals.
Preparing a Cat for International Air Travel Takes Planning
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Tylervigen
If you are planning to fly internationally with a cat, expect to do more than just buy a ticket and show up at the gate. A large number of airlines request that you provide a health certificate that has been issued by a professional within the past ten days prior to departure. This document confirms that the cat is healthy, fully vaccinated, and safe to board.
Meanwhile, the pet crate must meet airline standards for ventilation and size, and your pet should be gradually introduced to it before the flight. That process can take a few days, especially for animals that aren’t used to being confined. Including familiar items such as a toy or a blanket can make the space more comfortable.
Consequently, cats should not eat for two hours before boarding to reduce the risk of nausea, and tranquilizers are generally discouraged unless prescribed by a vet. During security checks, make sure to remove your feline from their travel bag and carry them through the metal detector in a secure harness.