If you ever had difficulties or couldn’t take your pet with you wherever you flew, you’ll be happy to know that there’s a new airline that caters to our four-legged friends. Pet Airways, the first ever pet-only airline, had its flight on Tuesday, taking off from Republic Airport in Farmingdale, N.Y.

Why the need for such an airline? Regular airlines usually allow only a small number of passengers to take their pets with them. Other pets have to travel with the cargo hold, in dark and dangerous places, where temperatures vary immensely.

Binder and Wiesel, the husband and wife owning Pet Airways started their business in 2005. They spent these 4 years to design the aircrafts so that they would be comfortable for animals and comply with FAA regulations. The couple said they are overwhelmed by the response they got.

Tickets on Pet Airways have already been booked for the next months. A one-way fare costs $250, almost as much as major U.S. airlines. To begin with, the airline will operate flights between major North American cities, such as New York, Washington, Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles. Flying from NY to LA will take approximately 24 hours with a stop in Chicago for potty time, food and play.

The “pawsengers” will fly like humans (not in the cargo hold) and will be watched by a trained professional. The airline provides you a pet carrier from free if you don’t have one. You can drop off your pet at the Pet Lounge or “Paws Lodge”, up to 72h before flight.

Pet owners are not permitted onboard. There is no size limit for pets; right now only cats and dogs are flown but reptiles, bird & pigs will follow. (via Fox8)