A couple from Mexico City faced an unexpected setback when they were denied boarding at Cancun International Airport for not presenting a physical medical certificate for their pet, a Yorkie dog. Although they had the document in digital form, the airline required a printed copy.
Isaac Alonso, one of the passengers, expressed frustration, noting that when they traveled from Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) with the same airline, the digital certificate was accepted without any issues. He was unaware of the need for a printed certificate when he purchased the tickets.
The couple filed a complaint with the Federal Consumer Protection Agency (Profeco) module at the airport, where they received assistance. Alonso was incredulous that the same airline would have inconsistent security protocols. “How can we check in our bags and my pet with the digital certificate without any problem, but they demand it printed here?” he questioned.
Compounding their frustration, the airline staff did not offer support, merely informing them they had 40 minutes to find a way to print the document. Despite searching, they could not locate a place to print it and feared missing their flight.
While navigating Terminal 2, the dog remained safely secured. The couple worried that missing the flight would create further complications, as they lacked the resources for additional tickets or another night’s accommodation.
Alonso argued that this should not impede boarding, as they complied with the airline’s document requirements and could have been assisted in printing the certificate if necessary. He suspected these inconsistencies might force tourists to incur extra costs.
Although they did not refuse the request, Alonso emphasized that finding a place to print the document nearby was nearly impossible and would have taken over 40 minutes.
According to the Mexican Government, traveling with pets requires presenting documents, such as a health certificate confirming the pet’s health and a current rabies vaccine. The certificate must be on a veterinarian’s letterhead and include their professional ID number. They recommend checking airline-specific conditions to ensure pets can fly as cabin baggage or be sent as cargo.
Source: Por Esto
