Passengers, including Murphy, enjoy the inaugural flight on Companion Air.

In 2000, while traveling across the U.S. almost constantly, Rick and Diana Roof and their partner Murphy the dog began to realize the difficulties most animal owners had in finding safe, comfortable travel for their pets. As they began to research more and talk to pet lovers across America, it became clear that new travel alternatives were drastically needed. But how?

After months of research, modeling, expert consultation and testing led to the Companion Air concept, both Rick and Diana decided to trade in their careers to launch the new airline. They funded the company with 25 percent private investment and the rest from their personal savings. Rick had earned his pilot's license in 1994, but it took $120,000 to get FAA approval for the airline. Companion Air's inaugural flight was August 1, 2003, with a greyhound and her owner on board. A typical flight costs $449 between Washington, D.C. and Miami.

Companion Air
46 Abbey Court
Fishersville, VA 22939
Phone: 540-943-7786
www.companionair.com

Next: A Pet Place With Style