Even in this tough economic climate, an innovative pet-related business is set to take off—quite literally. Pet Airways, the first pet-only airline, will launch its first flights on July 14 to five major U.S. cities.

“This is an option for everybody who wants a safe, caring and comfortable environment for their pets,” said Alysa Binder, executive vice president of Pet Airways (Delray Beach, Fla.). She and her husband, Dan Wiesel, the company’s chief executive officer, co-founded the airline as an alternative for people who prefer not to ship their pets in cargo holds of commercial airliners.

Initially, the airline will fly to regional airports in New York, Washington, Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles.  

Pet Airways will operate like a private airline, eliminating long lines and security checkpoints, Binder said. Pets are checked in at least two hours—or up to 48 hours—before take-off, and later board the plane with the help of pet attendants. Planes are 19-person passenger planes retrofitted with kennel-style cages. Well-lit cabins are climate-controlled with proper air circulation for comfort and safety. Attendants check on pets every 15 minutes during the flight. After landing, they give each pet a potty break. Pets can be picked up immediately, or boarded overnight.

“We’re working with some unbelievable professionals, like Dr. Jeff Werber, who is our veterinarian,” said Binder. “He’s doing our protocols and to help make sure it’s stress-free.”

Binder says the airline accommodates dogs and cats. However, reptiles, birds and pigs are “coming soon.”

The airline has inked deals with several companies to offer discounts or on-board amenities: Oscar Newman (Geneva, Ill.), The Honest Kitchen Inc. (San Diego), Nurtured Pets, a division of Lauren International Inc. (New Philadelphia, Ohio), MyPetCareTV.com (Tampa, Fla.), Kong Co. (Golden, Colo.) and Pets Best Insurance (Boise, Idaho).

For more information, visit www.petairways.com. [July 2009 PET AGE]