
Travelling with pets can be stressful and expensive, and some airlines make it even more so. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates air transportation of pets within the U.S., and all airlines are required by law to follow certain guidelines. However, individual airlines may impose further restrictions or fees for flying with your pet.
Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines are considered the most pet-friendly airlines, offering the best overall experiences for flyers with pets. Alaska Airlines allows pets in the main cabin, baggage compartment, and cargo, while Frontier Airlines accepts a wider range of animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and small household birds.
When it comes to air travel with pets, it's important to do your research as each airline has its own requirements and restrictions. Factors to consider include the type of animal, size and weight, age, health and vaccine requirements, fees, and availability. It's also recommended to call the airline directly to make a reservation and confirm space for your pet.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Airline with the loosest pet travel laws | Alaska Airlines |
Pet fees | $100 each way per kennel or carrier |
Number of pets allowed per passenger | 4 (if you purchase an adjacent seat, otherwise two) |
Types of animals allowed | Dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds |
Age of pets allowed | 8 weeks or older |
Pet weight limit | N/A |
Pet carrier dimensions | 19 x 13 x 9 inches (mainline flights), 16 x 12 x 8 inches (regional flights), 18 x 11 x 11 inches (soft-sided kennel) |
Additional requirements | Pet must be small enough to fit comfortably inside the carrier, and the combined weight of the carrier and pet cannot exceed 20 lbs. |
What You'll Learn
Pet carrier requirements
When flying with a pet, it is important to be aware of the specific requirements and restrictions of the airline you are travelling with. Here is a general guide to pet carrier requirements:
Firstly, it is important to select an airline that permits pets to travel in the cabin. Many airlines will allow small cats, dogs, or household birds to travel with an adult passenger in the cabin, except when travelling to certain countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and South Africa, which require pets to enter as cargo.
Airlines will usually only allow one carrier per passenger and one pet per carrier, with a maximum of two to three pets per flight. It is important to check the specific airline's policy, as some may allow more than one pet per carrier, or more than two pets on a flight.
Your pet's carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and meet the following requirements:
- A waterproof bottom, with pet pads to absorb any accidents.
- Adequate ventilation—at least two sides of the carrier should have mesh ventilation, with a minimum of 14% of the total wall space dedicated to ventilation. At least 33% of the openings must be in the top half of the carrier, and it must have rims to prevent ventilation openings from being blocked.
- Security—the carrier should have zippers, not snaps, to ensure your pet remains securely inside.
- The carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. No part of the animal should protrude from the carrier.
- The carrier should have a strong, padded shoulder strap to make it easier for you to carry.
- The carrier should have privacy panels to keep your pet calm and shield them from the hustle and bustle of the airport.
- The carrier should be marked with your pet's name and your contact information, as well as the address and phone number of someone who can be reached at your destination.
- "Live Animal" should be marked on the top and side of the carrier, with directional arrows indicating the correct position.
- The carrier should have two empty dishes for food and water, along with feeding instructions and a signature certifying that your pet was offered food and water within four hours of the flight's scheduled departure.
It is important to note that sedating or tranquillising your pet before a flight is not recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association, as it can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems for your pet at high altitudes.
Specific Airline Policies:
While the above requirements are general guidelines, specific airlines may have their own unique policies and requirements. Here are the pet carrier requirements for some specific airlines:
- American Airlines: American Airlines allows carry-on pets that are limited to cats and dogs that meet size, age, and destination requirements. The carrier must not exceed the under-seat dimensions of the aircraft and must be made of soft, collapsible material. The combined weight of the carrier and pet cannot exceed 20 lbs.
- Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines charges $100 each way per kennel or carrier for pets travelling in the main cabin, and $150 for pets travelling in the climate-controlled baggage compartment. They allow up to two pet carriers in the main cabin and are more flexible with the types of pets allowed, including rabbits and household birds, in addition to cats and dogs.
- Frontier Airlines: Frontier Airlines charges a non-refundable fee of $99 per pet, per direction, and only allows pets in the main cabin. Their maximum pet container dimensions are 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. They accept a wider range of pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and small household birds, in addition to cats and dogs.
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Airline-specific pet policies
American Airlines
American Airlines allows carry-on pets, limited to cats and dogs that meet size, age, and destination requirements. The airline also offers cargo transportation for pets, but this is restricted to active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel travelling on official orders. Fees and restrictions apply for checked pets.
Fully-trained service dogs that meet the requirements may fly in the cabin free of charge. American Airlines also provides specific guidelines for travelling to certain destinations with pets, such as the European Union, Japan, and Hawaii.
Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines allows service and support animals, with additional requirements for emotional support animals, including documentation and a signed form attesting to the animal's training. "Pit bull type dogs" are not accepted by the airline.
Delta permits carry-on pets, including small cats, dogs, and household birds, provided they are at least 10 weeks old and remain in an approved carrier. The fee for this service is $125 each way.
The airline also offers cargo transportation for animals, with prices ranging from $100 to $300 depending on size.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines allows service and emotional support animals for customers with disabilities. The airline requires "credible verbal assurance" for service animals and medical documentation for emotional support animals. Only dogs and cats are accepted as emotional support animals.
Southwest permits carry-on cats and dogs for $95 each way, provided they are at least 8 weeks old and remain in their carrier. Up to two same-species animals are allowed per carrier.
United Airlines
United Airlines allows trained service animals and emotional support animals with proper documentation. The airline specifies that service animals are limited to cats, dogs, or miniature horses.
United permits carry-on pets, including domesticated cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds, for $125 each way, plus an additional $125 fee for stopovers exceeding four hours. The pet must remain in its carrier, which must fit completely under the seat.
The airline also offers the PetSafe program for larger animals, excluding most brachycephalic dogs, strong-jawed dog breeds, and certain cat breeds. Rates vary based on weight, with special exceptions for veterans and foreign service professionals.
JetBlue
JetBlue accepts service and emotional support dogs, cats, and miniature horses. The airline may request documentation for service animals, which should be provided 48 hours in advance.
JetBlue permits carry-on pets, including small cats and dogs, for a fee of $125 each way, with a limit of one pet per person. The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds, and the pet must remain in its carrier.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines allows service animals, including cats, dogs, and miniature horses, as well as emotional support animals with proper documentation.
The airline permits carry-on pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds. Dogs and cats must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned. Alaska Airlines charges $100 each way per pet.
Most pets are also allowed to travel as cargo for $100 each way.
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines allows service animals with verbal assurance that the animal is trained to assist a passenger with a disability. The airline has tightened its requirements for emotional and psychiatric support animals, requiring medical, veterinary, and passenger forms 48 hours before travel.
Spirit permits carry-on pets, including small domestic dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds. The maximum combined weight of the pet and carrier is 40 pounds, and the fee is $110 per carrier.
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines accepts carry-on pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and small household birds. The animal must fit comfortably in a travel kennel that fits under the seat, and the fee is $75 each way.
Allegiant Airlines
Allegiant Airlines allows up to three trained service animals (dogs, cats, or miniature horses) with a veterinary document. One emotional support animal is permitted per passenger, with medical, veterinary, and passenger responsibility forms supplied 45 minutes before departure.
The airline permits carry-on dogs and cats for $100 per carrier, per leg of the trip. Two pets are allowed per carrier, provided they fit comfortably.
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Preparing your pet for air travel
Research and Planning:
- Destination requirements: Research the import requirements of your destination country or state. Some countries have specific restrictions, such as Australia's limitations on importing assistance or service animals other than dogs. Additionally, certain countries may have vaccination requirements, such as rabies vaccinations for dogs entering the United States.
- Airline policies: Familiarize yourself with the policies of the airline you plan to fly with. Different airlines have varying fees, restrictions, and requirements for pet travel. For example, some airlines only allow cats and dogs, while others accept rabbits, birds, and other small animals.
- Pet carrier or crate: Obtain a suitable pet carrier or crate that meets airline requirements. It should have adequate ventilation, a waterproof bottom, and enough space for your pet to stand up and turn around. Start acclimating your pet to the carrier in advance by encouraging them to rest and nap in it, leaving the door open, and taking them on short trips inside it.
- Veterinarian visit: Schedule a visit to your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy and ready for travel. Obtain any necessary vaccinations, microchips, or health certificates. Discuss the use of tranquilizers or sedatives with your veterinarian if your pet is particularly anxious.
- Pet supplies: Gather all the necessary supplies for your pet's comfort and well-being during the trip, including food, water, treats, toys, medication, and a harness. Don't forget to pack some familiar items, such as a blanket or toy with your scent on it, to help ease your pet's anxiety.
- Hotel and emergency arrangements: Research and book pet-friendly accommodations along your journey. Identify nearby animal hospitals or veterinary services in case of emergencies.
At the Airport:
- Timing: Arrive at the airport early, as recommended by the airline. Most airlines suggest checking in two hours before your flight when travelling with a pet.
- Check-in process: Proceed to the ticket counter to check in your pet. Have all the required documentation ready, including health certificates, vaccination records, and travel information. Be prepared to present your pet's carrier for inspection to ensure it meets the required standards.
- Feeding and watering: Ensure your pet has been offered food and water within the specified time frame before the flight, usually four hours. Provide empty dishes in the carrier, along with feeding instructions, to allow airline staff to care for your pet if needed.
- Exercise: Don't forget to exercise your pet before checking in and during layovers. This will help calm your pet and make the travel experience more comfortable for them.
Remember, each airline and destination may have specific requirements, so always review the relevant policies and regulations before your trip.
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Pet health and vaccination requirements
When flying with your pet, you must ensure that you are adhering to the specific airline's pet policies, as well as the regulations of your departure and arrival destinations. Here is a comprehensive overview of the pet health and vaccination requirements for air travel:
Health and Vaccination Requirements:
- Rabies Vaccination: All pets crossing state borders, except guide dogs, are required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to have a current rabies vaccination. Additionally, some states may have their own vaccination and health certificate requirements. Always check with your destination state's health department before travelling.
- Health Certificate: A health certificate, signed by an accredited veterinarian, is mandatory for all pets travelling by air. The certificate should indicate that your pet is free of infectious diseases and meets the import requirements of the receiving state or country. The timeline for obtaining this certificate may vary depending on your destination and the type of travel (cargo or cabin). For international travel, the certificate often requires USDA endorsement.
- Microchip: Microchipping your pet is highly recommended, as it improves the chances of being reunited with your pet if they become lost during travel. Ensure that the microchip is registered with your current contact information, including a cell phone number.
- Acclimation Certificate: Some airlines may require an acclimation certificate, signed by your veterinarian, to waive the low-temperature federal regulation for animals travelling in the cargo hold. This certificate states that your pet is acclimated to extreme weather conditions.
- Sedation and Tranquilization: In most cases, it is not recommended to sedate or tranquilize your pet for air travel. However, if medically necessary, your veterinarian should indicate the drug name, dosage, and administration method on the pet's carrier.
- Breed and Size Restrictions: Different airlines may have specific restrictions on breed and size. Some airlines do not transport brachycephalic or "short-nosed" dogs and cats in cargo due to respiratory risks. Additionally, there may be weight and size limits for pets travelling in the cabin.
- Age Requirements: Federal regulations require pets to be at least eight weeks old and weaned at least five days before flying.
- Feeding and Watering: The USDA requires that your pet be offered food and water within four hours before check-in. It is recommended to feed your pet a light meal four hours before the flight and provide water up until the time of travel.
- Exercise: Ensure your pet gets adequate exercise before arriving at the airport and after reaching your destination. This will help calm your pet before and after the flight.
- Carrier Requirements: Your pet's carrier should be appropriately sized, well-ventilated, leak-proof, and marked with identification tags and "Live Animal" labels. Soft-sided carriers are typically only permitted in the cabin. The carrier should also contain two empty dishes and be lined with absorbent material.
- Reservations and Reconfirmation: When booking your flight, call the airline directly to confirm the availability of pet space. Reconfirm your pet's travel 24 to 48 hours before your flight.
- Check-in: Arrive at the airport early, but not more than four hours before your flight. Check-in at the ticket counter, as curbside or self-service check-in is usually not permitted for pets.
It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and specific requirements may vary depending on the airline and your destination. Always refer to the individual airline's pet policies and the regulations of your departure and arrival locations.
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Emotional support and service animals
American Airlines, for example, does not recognise emotional support animals as service animals. They can, however, travel as pets, subject to the relevant requirements and fees. Delta Air Lines also does not recognise emotional support animals as service animals, and advises owners to review their Pet Travel Guidelines instead.
Some airlines, however, do still allow ESAs to fly with passengers. These include LATAM, JSX, Lufthansa, and Volaris. Based in Santiago, Chile, LATAM is the largest airline in Latin America and welcomes ESAs on flights to/from Colombia and Mexico, as well as on domestic flights within Colombia. Volaris, a Mexican low-cost airline, also allows ESAs to fly for free on flights within Mexico, Central America, and South America, provided the owner has an official ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. Aeroméxico, the Mexican flag carrier, also allows ESAs on board, provided they weigh no more than 26 pounds and are well-behaved.
In addition to these airlines, a handful of others also permit ESAs on international flights, including Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, Asiana, and Singapore Air.
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Frequently asked questions
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates air transportation of pets within the U.S. and all airlines must follow the guidelines. Airlines may impose further restrictions or fees. In general, pets must be offered food and water within four hours of checking in, and should be exercised before arriving at the airport. At the airport, passengers with pets must check in at the ticket counter.
Carry-on pets must be in an approved carrier that is well-ventilated and leak-proof, with enough room for the animal to stand, turn around and lie down. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of the passenger. Only certain types of animals are allowed, with most airlines permitting small dogs and cats, and some also allowing household birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters.
Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines are considered the most pet-friendly, with Alaska allowing dogs, cats, rabbits and household birds in the cabin, and Frontier accepting rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and small household birds in addition to cats and dogs.