Pets on flights can be classed as baggage, top EU court rules

European court of justice asked to intervene after dog was lost on journey from Buenos Aires to Barcelona

Pets on flights can be classified as baggage, the European court of justice (ECJ) has ruled, meaning airlines are not required to pay higher compensation if the animal is lost.

Europe's highest court was asked to intervene after a dog was lost during a journey from Buenos Aires to Barcelona, triggering a claim for losses from the owner.