RetrievAir, one of the only pet-forward air charter service, announced today it is now accepting bookings for its inaugural flights on May 21, 2025 in nine major metropolitan areas – New York (Farmingdale), Los Angeles (Van Nuys), Denver (Centennial), Dallas (Arlington), Chicago (Waukegan), Carmel (Monterey), Fort Lauderdale, Salt Lake City, and Tampa. This innovative travel solution addresses the significant challenges pet owners face when traveling, offering a compassionate alternative that keeps pets and their owners together throughout the entire journey.
“RetrievAir was born from personal experience with my two Labradors, Maple and Willow,” said Benton Miller, CEO and founder of RetrievAir. “Restrictive airline policies that separate pets from their families, partnered with the emotional toll of separation during travel, is significant for both pets and their owners. We’ve created a service that eliminates that stress while maintaining the accessibility of commercial travel—without the premium price of traditional private aviation.”
Industry research shows that 82% of dog owners report feeling anxious or worried about their pets when traveling, while 64% of Millennial pet parents say they would rather skip the trip entirely than leave their furry companions behind. From limited airline options to the emotional stress of separating from their pets, the experience can feel overwhelming and unfair. RetrievAir offers a game-changing solution, allowing dogs of all sizes to travel safely in-cabin alongside their human companions, eliminating the guesswork, guilt and logistical headaches that so many pet owners face.
The company has redesigned the air travel experience with pet comfort and owner convenience as primary considerations. Flights depart from executive airports with streamlined security procedures, eliminating the chaos of commercial terminals. The 30-seat regional jets feature spacious cabin configurations that accommodate pets of all sizes, from small breeds to Great Danes, ensuring they remain with their owners throughout the flight.
With a starting price of $750 per segment for a one-way flight, RetrievAir offers substantial value compared to private charter alternatives while remaining comparable to the cost of high-end pet boarding services. The service includes thoughtful amenities for both passengers and their pets, including an efficient back-to-front boarding process that minimizes pet-to-pet interaction, creating a comfortable and stress-reduced environment during travel.
“Throughout my 30-year career in aviation, I’ve recognized the growing demand for pet-inclusive travel options,” said Mark Williams, co-founder and veteran airline executive. “RetrievAir fills this critical gap in the market by combining aviation expertise with genuine understanding of pet owners’ needs. Our specially trained flight attendants are not only hospitality professionals but are also knowledgeable in canine behavior to ensure a smooth experience for everyone onboard,” Williams added.