- The IATA Live Animal Regulations (LAR) 2026 are being updated to address persistent compliance gaps – particularly regarding misuse of a CR1 container for wild and exotic species.
- Updates include new guidelines on container strength, animal density, bobtail breeds, and seafood transportation. Consultant Tristan Bradfield also pointed to weak global standards on in-cabin pet travel and outlined future digitization efforts.
- The LAR is transitioning from a reference guide to a more stringent, globally applicable standard for live animal logistics.
Airlines and ground handling companies can expect stricter requirements and clearer compliance procedures as the IATA Live Animal Regulations (LAR) undergo another review for 2026. As enforcement gaps persist around CR1 containers and handling of specific species, regulators are working to refine operational details.
Misuse of CR1 containers under scrutiny
CR1 enclosures – typically used for wild and exotic species – remain the most problematic area of non-compliance. “There has been a misinterpretation of what constitutes CR1 compliance,” Tristan Bradfield, consulting director at the City of London Animal Reception Centre, said during a webinar hosted by the ATA.
He noted frequent mismatches between species requirements and containers used.
“We often see animals being transported in containers that are inadequate for their needs…they are using them for the wrong species.”
To improve clarity, IATA has added new illustrations and symbol guidelines to the 52nd edition of the LAR. These updates are designed to show when hard plastics are acceptable and to clarify species-specific requirements.
What changes in 2026 LAR
Confirmed and proposed updates in the 52nd edition of LAR include:
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Enhanced guidelines for CR1 containers
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Stocking density and ventilation requirements for day-old chicks
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Size specifications for brachycephalic breeds
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New rules for transporting seafood for human consumption
Bradfield noted that these changes reflect feedback from regulators and practical issues observed when monitoring the border. “We want to help people do the right thing, and not cause confusion,” he said. “It’s about aligning what people think they’re doing with what they’re actually doing.”
Work is also underway to improve digital compliance processes. While live animal shipments are still largely paper-based, Bradfield confirmed that discussions about an electronic air waybill are ongoing. At the same time, the newly formed IATA Live Animals Working Group has been tasked with reviewing species lists, terminology and compliance standards for future editions.
Bradfield, who helped develop the CEIV’s live animal logistics program, emphasized the collaborative nature of LAR itself.
“LAR improves year after year through the feedback we get from operators, authorities, animal care teams, and people like us.”
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