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Everything to Know About Flying with a Dog 

By Matt Meltzer , Katherine LaGrave , and Sarah Kuta

If you’re a pet parent, you’ve probably considered flying with a dog. While it might seem like the best option to keep your furry friend with you on all of your travels—not to mention more appealing than organizing dog-sitting or a stay at a boarding facility—it’s far from a straightforward decision.

Flying with a dog for the first time can be stressful and overwhelming for both you and your pet. There are many details to figure out: What are your airline’s specific rules for non-service pets? How much does bringing along a dog cost? Is your dog’s breed allowed in the plane cabin? Do you have the right equipment and pet carrier? And—above all else—is flying safe and comfortable for your pet?

There’s so much to consider before you take the plunge and show up at the airport to board a plane with your dog. However, traveling with your dog is certainly possible with the right research to inform your decision.

Below, we’ve rounded up everything you need to think about before flying with a dog, from airlines’ different policies and the required paperwork, to how to ensure your dog is as comfortable as possible throughout all legs of the journey.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Can I fly with a dog on a plane?

Can my dog fly with me? Yes, in many cases, your dog can fly with you on a plane, either in the cabin or the cargo hold. However, as you might imagine, airlines have tons of specific guidelines for travelers with pets to read up on. It’s important that you read them all thoroughly, well in advance of your trip, so you know exactly what to expect and can prepare for how to fly with a dog ahead of time.

First, you’ll need to check with your airline to see what type of breeds they allow in the cabin or the cargo hold. Often, certain types of dog breeds are barred from flying in one place or another. For instance, brachycephalic dog breeds with short or snubbed noses (like French bulldogs and pugs) usually can’t fly in the  hold due to breathing issues. Most larger dogs aren’t allowed in the cabin (with exceptions for trained service animals) and will have to fly in the cargo hold. Many air carriers have completely banned specific breeds—like pit bulls—from flying at all.

Always book flight reservations for you and your pet at the same time: Most airlines only allow a handful of pets per flight—typically two to six, depending on the type of plane and whether it is a domestic or international flight .

Be sure to call and make there’s still room for your pet. You might also have limited seating options when flying with a dog. Airlines usually do not allow passengers flying with dogs to sit in bulkhead rows, business or first-class cabins with lie-flat beds , or emergency exit rows. Also keep in mind that airlines will not accept pets on the plane if temperatures are forecasted to be too hot or too cold at any destination along the route. Of course, the weather can be unpredictable, so if this happens, you’ll have to scramble to make other plans.

How stressful is flying for dogs?

Flying is an incredibly stressful experience for all dogs, but it can be especially upsetting for elderly dogs, as well as pups with health or behavioral challenges.

Think about it: Flying removes pets from the surroundings they are most comfortable and familiar with, then forces them into a situation with loud noises, bright lights, thousands of people, a dizzying array of new smells, changes in air pressure and cabin temperature, and limited access to places where they can use the bathroom. Dogs who must fly in the cargo hold are also away from you, their favorite person, in a scary environment.

In addition, consider whether your dog will be able to participate in all the activities you have planned once you arrive. “If the destination is somewhere where the pup will be alone inside all day, boarding or hiring a dog sitter may be better options to consider rather than subjecting the pet to the stress of flying,” says Jennifer Bruns, a veterinarian at PetSmart.

With all of that in mind, it’s probably best to leave your dog at home unless you have a pressing reason to bring them on the plane with you. Even though this might feel disappointing, it’s likely a decision that will be better for your dog in the long run. If you do decide to leave your dog behind, you can hire a dog-sitter, have a reliable friend or family member look after them, or book a stay in a reputable boarding facility.

Another option could be road-tripping to your destination instead of flying. But that would depend on whether your dog handles car travel well and if your destination is within a reasonable driving distance.

Bottom line: Before you book a trip, think long and hard about whether it’s essential to bring your dog along for the journey. “In general, I recommend not flying with a pet unless absolutely necessary,” says Justine Lee, veterinary expert for Pumpkin Pet Insurance . “Ideally, pets should not fly unless an owner is moving permanently or taking a long trip—two to four weeks minimum.”

And if you do decide to proceed with flying with a dog, consult with your vet about food, water, exercise, and medication ahead of time. Experts are divided on whether travelers with pets should sedate or tranquilize their dogs before a flight (even the American Veterinary Medical Association offers a slightly murky answer to this question), so weigh the pros and cons with an expert who is familiar with you and your animal. Also know that there are health risks involved with sedation, and some airlines prohibit this practice or require a veterinarian’s note.

To minimize your pet’s discomfort, look for non-stop flights with no transfers, and avoid traveling over holiday periods when airlines—and airports—are busier than normal, to help reduce the risk of anything going wrong. If your pet has to fly in cargo, also be mindful of the weather at your destination. For trips to warm-weather destinations, look into early morning or late evening flights when the temperatures won’t be quite so high; conversely, in cooler climates, book flights in the middle of the day, when temps are warmest.

Can I buy my dog a seat on a plane?

Most airlines do not allow passengers to buy their dogs a seat on a plane. However, depending on the dog’s size and breed, as well as the specific airline’s rules , you may be able to pay to have your dog fly with you in the cabin.

By CNT Editors

By Madison Flager

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Caitlin Morton

Usually dogs are only allowed to fly in the cabin—known as carry-on pets—if they can comfortably fit in a carrier that you can stow under the seat in front of you. A small number of airlines, including JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Etihad Airways, allow passengers flying with dogs to buy an extra seat for their pet. Dogs must still fly in a carrier and fit under the seat to be stowed for taxi, takeoff, and landing (on Etihad, carriers can take up more space if being used with an additional seat); outside of those flight phases, passengers are generally allowed to put the dog carrier on their lap or in the seat next to them that they purchased.

Unfortunately, larger dogs (with exceptions for trained service animals) have to travel in the cargo hold, along with all the luggage and freight. Most airlines describe this as “shipping” your pet. (Yikes.)

While airlines say they try their best to make dogs comfortable in the cargo hold, it’s bound to be an unpleasant experience for your pet nonetheless (and that’s likely an understatement). Plenty of animals fly in cargo every year without incident, but travelers have also shared horror stories about their pets being injured, becoming very sick, or even dying.

Are the potential risks of “shipping” your dog in the cargo hold worth the benefits? It’s something to seriously consider. Additionally, once you check in your dog for the flight, they are completely in the hands of airline personnel until you get to your destination. Your dog will be loaded by baggage handlers who are trying to get all of the luggage and other items onto the plane in an efficient manner. Although they may love pets, they’re not there to pay special attention to your dog. “There are many situations that are beyond your control when your pet flies in cargo,” says Bruns. “Putting your dog in cargo, even on a pet-friendly airline, can be a very risky situation.”

What are the rules for flying with a dog?

The rules for traveling with your dog will vary widely based on your airline, where you’re traveling, and what type of dog you have. Always do research in advance of every trip—even if it’s not your first time flying with a dog—to ensure you have all of the latest information and regulations. If your dog is a trained service animal, then a totally different set of regulations will apply. Look at airlines’ websites carefully to be sure you’re reading the correct information you need. You can also try calling an airline customer service line to get more detail on their specific rules. Here are the pet travel pages for Delta , American Airlines , United , JetBlue , Southwest , and Alaska Airways .

Airlines typically require a health certificate —issued by an accredited veterinarian following an office visit that includes a physical examination—stating your dog is healthy and up-to-date on her vaccinations. The certificate is only good for 30 days, and you’ll need it for both your departure and return. (Many airlines require that your dog's clean bill of health be no more than 10 days old.) If the duration of your trip is longer than your certificate will be valid for, you’ll also have to schedule a vet visit while on your trip to meet the return flight requirements. Dogs must also typically be at least eight weeks old to fly, says Bruns.

You’ll typically pay between $95 to $125 each way for your pet to fly in the cabin with you, though the pet fee varies by airline. The cost of shipping your pet in the cargo hold depends on the combined weight of your dog and their crate, as well as how far they’ll be flying—most airlines offer online calculators for getting an estimate.

Wherever your pet will spend the flight, airlines typically require an appropriate pet carrier or crate. The International Air Transport Association, whose guidelines most airlines follow, has a list of pet carrier requirements (we've also rounded up our favorite airline-approved pet carriers) .

Generally speaking, the crate needs to be durable and have plenty of ventilation, strong handles, and a leak-proof bottom. Clearly mark the pet carrier with the words “Live Animal” and arrows that show which way is up, with a label containing your name, phone number, address, and destination contact information.

Another important thing to research? Local animal import laws for each airport you’ll be stopping at along the way. This is especially important if you’re traveling internationally or somewhere like Hawaii , which has strict customs rules. Many places have painfully complicated processes and long quarantine periods—which could mean you'd be separated from your pet for most or all of your trip.

Some destinations do not allow pets to fly in the cabin, even if your dog is small enough to be a carry-on; there are even some countries and states that prohibit pets from flying to, from, or through on a connection, period. Others have specific requirements that may take a while to coordinate, so it’s best to start your trip-planning process extra early if you want to bring your dog. “Some countries require testing and treatment for disease months in advance of travel, so timing is of the utmost importance,” says Bruns.

Also note there are currently special requirements for dogs traveling to the U.S. from a country the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) deems high risk for rabies . For example, dogs who have been vaccinated against rabies in the U.S. by a U.S.-licensed veterinarian may return from a high-risk country if they have proof of rabies vaccination and a microchip; are at least six months old; are healthy upon arrival; and arrive at one of 18 specific airports with CDC quarantine facilities.

Before your trip, thoroughly research the departing and arrival airports, paying close attention to any pet relief areas. Familiarize your dog with their crate well in advance of your trip so they are comfortable spending long periods of time inside it. You might even consider taking your dog to the airport’s departure area a few times so they become slightly more familiar with this strange place. “Every time I fly with my dog, I look at the terminal map—both the one I'm leaving from and the one I'm landing at—to see if there is a pet relief area,” says Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer with Rover . “This way, if my flight is delayed, I can give him another chance to go. And as soon as we land, I know where to head.”

Flying with a dog: Day-of travel

On travel day, be sure to get to the airport extra early so you don’t feel rushed or stressed. If your pet is flying cargo, most airlines require you to arrive at least three hours before departure for domestic flights and at least five hours before international flights. You’ll likely need to take your pet to a separate cargo drop-off location at the airport. These are usually special hangars on the outskirts of the airport property. Your airline should have a list of locations and hours of operation of the facilities at each airport. This is also where you’ll pick up your pet after the flight, too, so review your departure and arrival airport maps ahead of time to know where to go.

If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, go to the passenger check-in desk, where an agent will ask to see all of your dog’s required paperwork. Once you’ve got the all-clear and paid the pet carry-on fee, you’ll head to security. Deal with your shoes, liquids, laptop, and other items before tending to your dog. Then, remove the dog from the kennel and place it on the conveyor belt; it needs to go through the X-ray machine. Place a leash on your dog in the security line until it’s your turn to go through the metal detector. When it’s your turn to be scanned, TSA says to remove your dog’s leash and collar (so they don’t set off the alarm) and carry your dog through the metal detector.

You’ll also want to read up on the TSA’s rules around dog food , especially if you want to bring a little wet food in your carry-on bag. The agency considers both dry and moist dog food as solid food, and therefore they allow it in carry-on bags. As with all food items , however, a security officer may ask you to remove the food from your bag to get a clearer picture of the other contents in your carry-on.

If the dog is flying as cargo, make sure to attach a current photo of her to the outside of the carrier, as well as a small bag of food so airline personnel can feed it in case of a long delay . Keep a current photo of your dog handy on your phone, too, in case the airline accidentally “misplaces” your pet—it's not likely, but it’s better to be prepared. (Getting your pet microchipped can also help in the event that your pet gets lost.)

Once you touch down at your destination, grab your checked baggage (or, to speed things up while traveling with dogs, only bring a carry-on ) and head straight to the airline’s cargo location. Dogs who fly cargo are typically available two hours after the flight’s arrival, and you must pick them up within four hours or airline staffers will take them to a veterinarian or boarding facility.

Whether your pet flew in cargo or the cabin, take your dog for a walk right away and be sure to give them lots of praise, cuddles, treats, toys, or whatever other positive reinforcement rewards they prefer. (If you're flying with a dog in the cabin and have a layover, stretch your legs—and your pup's—at a pet relief area in the airport .) Though the journey can be complicated, you'll breathe easier once you've both arrived safe and sound.

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13 of the Most Pet-Friendly Airlines: Stress-Free Flying with Your Dog!

WRITTEN BY:

Kelsey Leicht

January 5, 2023

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K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

Flying with your dog can be as daunting as it is exciting. From veterinary health clearances to carrier requirements, your to-do list may feel endless, especially given the differences between the rules of different airlines.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help! 

We’ve fetched the basic requirements for traveling with your dog on all of the major U.S. airlines, and highlighted our favorite features. Check out the best pet-friendly airlines and some tips for flying with your pup below.

Quick Picks: Best Pet-Friendly Airlines

• JSX Airlines [Best for Traveling In-Cabin] JSX airlines offer public charter flights that come with a hefiter price tag, but even 60lb dogs can fly in the cabin right at your feet .
• American Airlines [Best Pet-Friendly Major Airline] This airline’s vast coverage area and reasonable fees make it a top-tier pick for those traveling with pooch passengers.
• Allegiant [Most Affordable Pet-Friendly Airline] Protect your travel budget by booking with this low-cost canine-friendly carrier offering cabin fees as low as $50.
• Lufthansa [Best for International Travel] Jet off to your next worldwide woofin’ adventure with this German-based carrier allowing cabin travel for small canines.

Pet-Friendly Airline Info: The Basics We’ve Covered

Every airline has its own set of rules for canine travel, but we’ve tackled the basics to give a snapshot of each. Hopefully, this makes narrowing your options a tad easier.

Some of the things we cover below include:

• Flying with your dog in the cabin . Not every airline allows dogs to travel with passengers in the plane’s cabin. Some limit canines to the cargo area only, while others allow for cabin travel if canines meet specific size, behavior, or containment requirements. Typically, well-behaved, small dogs that can be stowed in an airline-approved pet carrier under an airline seat are allowed, though there are also a very few airlines that allow large breeds to travel via cabin too.
• Flying with your dog in the cargo hold . Some airlines allow dogs to travel in the cargo hold. Housed in a carrier that meets strict safety standards, cargo-held canines generally have less strict size requirements than cabin-dwelling doggos, allowing larger breeds to fly. However, current travel trends have made cargo travel hard to come by for dogs.
• Banned breeds . Many airlines ban certain breeds from flying in the cabin or cargo area. This typically includes brachycephalic (short-headed) dogs, though some providers may prohibit other breeds from flying.
• Rules for emotional support animals and service dogs . Previously many airlines allow ESAs to travel differently than everyday pet dogs, but the vast majority of airlines have done away with ESAs on flights. However, per federal law, service dogs are granted access to planes with their handler, regardless of the airlines’ pet policy. Not sure about the difference between service dogs vs ESA dogs – let us explain!
• Pet flying fees . The cost of traveling with your dog varies significantly from airline to airline, with some pet passes costing little more than a checked-bag fee while others can be a few hundred dollars or more. These fees may change according to your dog’s size and travel method too.
• Weight restrictions for flying dogs . Weight restrictions can be a real bite, particularly if you plan to have your pooch travel in the cabin. Cabin weight limits tend to be much lower than cargo limits, but it’s important in both scenarios to weigh your pup and factor in the weight of his travel crate. This eliminates potential airport surprises, as your pooch is weighed in his carrier before boarding. Generally speaking, flying in the cabin won’t be a viable option unless your dog is under 20 lbs.
• Dog crate size for riding in the cabin . Most airlines require kenneled canines to be stowed under an airline if traveling in the cabin, meaning your dog’s crate needs to meet specific size criteria. These sizing guidelines vary from airline to airline, so always double-check the rules, especially if you have connecting flights with different airlines. In addition, your dog should be able to stand, sit, and turn around in his carrier.
• Dog crate size for flying in the cargo hold . Cargo crates must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements , which include strict size, locking, and ventilation standards. As with cabin carriers, your dog must be able to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably in the kennel.
• Maximum number of pets per person . Most airlines allow one pet per passenger, but some allow two. Sometimes, this means two pets in the same carrier or two pets housed in separate carriers. But just because you can fit two dogs in a carrier, that doesn’t mean you should . Not every dog likes being crammed with a friend while already enduring the stress of travel.
• Maximum number of pets per airplane . Airlines typically limit the number of animals on a flight, which can lead to travel nightmares if you don’t book early. A six-pet limit is most commonly seen, but some have limits as low as two. Yikes!
• Dog age requirements for flying . Like destinations, each airline sets its own rules regarding how old a dog must be to travel. Most of the time, this pertains to puppies, but senior dogs may also face scrutiny, particularly those in poor health.
• Special notes and miscellaneous four-footed flying facts . We’ll note if an airline has any special rules or pet perks. This might include things like special document requirements, restrictions, and more.

While we’re covering the basics in this article, you should still discuss your travel plans with an airline representative to ensure you and your pooch fly without issue. Rules are ever-changing, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.

13 Most Pet-Friendly Airlines 

Ready to take off with your terrier? Check out these pet-friendly airlines and see which works best for your woofin’ wanderlust.

1. American Airlines

Straightforward requirements and a wide service area make this airline our #1 pick.

About : American Airlines is a canine-friendly carrier for most people looking to travel with a dog. Not only do they offer service around the U.S and abroad, but they also clearly spell-out their requirements for pets , making flying with your pup easier.

• Cabin-traveling dogs must remain in stowed beneath a seat in a carrier at all times
• Carry-on pets are not allowed for most international travel or when flying to Hawaii
• American Airlines does not allow dogs that are sedated or tranquilized to fly
• Carry-on pets aren’t allowed in first class or business class if traveling in specific aircraft, including Boeing’s 777-200, 777-300, 787-8, and 787-9
• Dogs in Cargo : Only for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders.
• Checked-in pets must have health certificates dated within 10 days of travel
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic and brachycephalic mixes cannot fly with American Airlines.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, but they must travel as pets and pay the required fees.
• Fee : Cabin fee is $125 per carrier. For active service members or U.S. State Department personnel, the cargo fee is $200 per kennel regardless of destination, except for Brazil, where the cost is $150 per kennel.
• Weight Limits : Cargo travelers cannot have a weight that exceeds 100 pounds for both the pet and crate. For carry-on canines, the carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds if traveling in first class.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Maximum dimensions for a hard-sided carrier are 19” x 13” x 9”, while a soft-side carrier can be 18” x 11” x 11”. 
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Maximum dimensions vary by aircraft.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : Up to 2 check-in pets (cargo), Up to 1 carrier per passenger (May contain 1 or  2 pets.) Pets traveling in the same carrier must be of the same species, under 6 months old, and of similar size.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : For carry-on, the limit is 7 on American flights and 5 on American Eagle flights.
• 8 weeks or older to fly domestically. 
• Age varies for international locations. 
• If you’re traveling with connecting flights, checked pets (cargo) can only connect in limited cities .
• Weather extreme restrictions are in place that may bar pet travel in cargo if destinations are over 85℉ or below 45℉.

Big or small, your canine cany enjoy worry-free traveling with this carrier.

About : JSX provides the comfort of private flights at an affordable rate to travelers across a limited portion of the United States. With its relatively relaxed pet policy , it’s a top-notch pick for low-stress flying with your dog.

@rigatoni_reacts It was kinda private. 😅 #jsx #privateflight ♬ swing lynn – lovdfilmz

Keep in mind that JSX functions as a public charter operator — it basically shared private air travel. On top of being able to bring your larger-sized pet into the cabin with you, that also means you get a host of other perks that come with private flights, such as:

• Private terminals and separate security
• Business class legroom with roomy seats
• Intimate 30-seat jets
• Plane-side baggage retrieval immediately after unloading passengers

Sounds amazing, right?

The downside is that tickets are pricier than your normal flight — expect to pay 2-3x what you’d pay with a standard airline. Plus, JSX has a very limited number of flight paths, primarily in the southwest region of the United States.

Still, if you’re going where JSX flies, it can’t get much better for you and your pooch.

• Small dogs must be kenneled at all times, while medium and large-sized dogs must be leashed and stowed in the footwell of the seat beside you 
• Pets and carriers aren’t allowed on airline seats
• Only well-mannered dogs are permitted to fly
• Dogs in Cargo : No.
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No listed breed restrictions.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, with limitations. ESAs must have the required documentation and demonstrate safe and appropriate behavior in a flight setting (no lunging, barking, growling, jumping, pottying accidents, etc.) ESAs must be reported to the airline in advance to ensure proper seating arrangements and documentation.
• Fee : Free for small dogs riding in a carrier stowed beneath a seat; large dogs incur a fee equal to the advertised rate of your adjoining seat. 
• Weight Limits : 65 pounds or less
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 13″ wide x 11″ tall x 17″ long
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet per passenger
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 5 pets maximum per flight.
• Age Limits : None listed.
• JSX has a limited service map across the U.S.
• JSX Pet Acceptance Liability Form must be completed before boarding.
• Only 1 pet per carrier is permitted.

3. United Airlines

A broad coverage map and simple rules for flying with your pet make this airline great for those with canine passengers. 

About : United Airlines’ pet policy makes things easy on pet parents by spelling everything out without much fluff. The coverage area is impressive, too, with tons of domestic and international destinations to choose from.

• Seating options for passengers with pets can vary by aircraft
• Pets must stay in a carrier stowed beneath a seat at all times
• Passengers with pets cannot sit in an emergency exit row, a United Premium Plus seat, or in the front row of any cabin
• Dogs in Cargo : United has discontinued other pet cargo shipments via PetSafe except for U.S. military members on current Permanent Change of Station orders and State Department Foreign Service Personnel on current reassignment. In these cases, you can fly with your pets as checked baggage, but only on flights between Guam and Honolulu and under specific conditions. 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds are not permitted to fly via United.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, but they must travel in accordance with United’s pet guidelines and pay the required fees.
• Fee : $125 carry-on fee, with a $125 charge for each stopover of 4 hours in the U.S. or 24 hours internationally.
• Weight Limits : No weight limits for carry-on pets. Your dog just has to fit comfortably in his carrier.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Hard-sided kennels are permitted and must be 17.5” long x 12” tall x 7.5” wide or smaller, while soft-sided kennels are allowed to be 18” long x 11” wide x 11” tall or smaller. Your dog must fit comfortably inside the kennel with enough space to stand and turn around without crouching. If flying on a Boeing 737 MAX 9, your pet carrier cannot be taller than 10 inches and if traveling in Economy with a pet on this type of plane, you must sit in a window seat.
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Crates cannot exceed 34 inches in height when traviling in the cargo hold. Your dog must be able to stand, lie down, and turn around naturally.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : Varies by aircraft. Some allow a max of 2 pets in premium cabins and 4 pets in economy seating, while others allow up to 6 pets in economy seating.
• Age Limits : Older than 8 weeks to travel domestically and at least 16 weeks or older to travel internationally
• United only allows one pet per carrier.
• A health certificate for your pet dated within 30 days of your trip is required when traveling domestically. This should include your name, phone number, and address, along with your pet’s breed, sex, age, and markings. The certificate should also include your dog’s vaccination information, including the name of the vaccines, the dates administered, and the expiration dates. 

Loads of East Coast destinations make this a top pet-positive airline.

About : Delta makes flying up and down the eastern seaboard with your pooch easy with heaps of destinations. Delta’s rules surrounding pet travel are convenient to navigate, too, making your flying Fido expeditions all the more tail-wagging.

• Pets must remain in a carrier at all times
• Carry-on pets cannot travel in any cabin with flat-bed seats
• Carry-on pets are not permitted for international travel for passengers in Business Class, Delta Premium Select, or Delta One due to insufficient space. This may also be limited for domestic travel, depending on the flight.
• Carry-on pets cannot be seated in bulkhead seats, emergency exit rows, and no-stowage seats
• All animals traveling via cargo must have a health certificate issued within 10 days of flight from a licensed veterinarian. 
• Delta does not accept animals as checked baggage during periods of extreme weather. This is defined as temperatures exceeding 80˚F below 20˚F.
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds and mixes cannot fly with Delta.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel as pets, follow applicable rules, and pay necessary fees.
• Fee : $95 carry-on fee each way domestically, $200 carry-on fee each way internationally, and $75 carry-on fee each way for Brazil. For military mutts traveling with their families, the fees are $200 for traveling to the U.S. or internationally and $150 for flying to Brazil.
• Weight Limits : No weight limits are listed.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Varies by flight. For most flights, Delta recommends a soft-sided carrier that is ​​18” x 11” x 11”. 
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Varies significantly by aircraft.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : Only 1 unless a mother dog is traveling with puppies less than 6 months old or if 2 puppies less than 6 months old can comfortably fit in a kennel.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : 2 in Business Class, 4 in the Main Cabin.
• Age Limits : Dogs must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic air travel.
• Sedation of household dogs is forbidden for travel with Delta.
• Delta asks passengers to have kennel dimensions available at booking.
• Pet parents must check-in at the Special Service Counter.

5. Southwest

An affordable dog-friendly flier with numerous destinations across the southern U.S. and beyond.

About : Flying around the southern United States with your dog is easy with Southwest. Southwest’s pet policy is pretty easy to digest too, allowing you to focus on the more enjoyable parts of your four-footed excursion.

• Pets that are aggressive, excessively whining or barking, or soiling the cabin or gate area may be denied boarding
• Pets must remain in carriers at all times
• Passengers with pets can’t sit in exit rows or seats without stowage
• Vaccinations are required, but Southwest doesn’t require proof of vaccination
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions given.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the pet policy rules.
• Fee : $95 per pet carrier, $35 for carriers flying with passengers between Hawaiian islands between September 6 and December 31.
• Weight Limits : None noted besides “small dogs only”
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Maximum of 18.5” long x 13.5” wide x 9.5” tall
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : 1 carrier per passenger which may contain up to 2 small dogs as long as they fit comfortably together
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : 6 pet carriers per flight
• Age limits : 8 weeks or older.
• Pets cannot fly to and from Hawaii and other destinations but can fly between the Hawaiian islands.
• Southwest doesn’t allow pets to fly internationally.
• Pet crates and strollers are accepted as checked luggage.

Escaping to the tropics with your sunny sniffer is easy with this airline.

About : JetBlue has destinations across the Caribbean from multiple points across the U.S, making it an excellent choice for those looking to soak up the sun with a pup. JetBlue’s pet policy is similar to most major airlines, though it does have its differences.

• Pets must remain in a carrier at all times in the airport and on the plane
• Carriers must remain stowed beneath a seat during takeoff, landing, and taxi
• Passengers with pets can’t sit in emergency exit rows, bulkhead seats, Mint seats or any seat without under-seat stowage
• Pets can’t fly to Trinidad and Tobago or London
• Pets aren’t allowed on interline or codeshare bookings
• Vaccination requirements vary by destination 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : None listed.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must fly under the airline’s pet policy rules.
• Fee : $125 each way for cabin travel.
• Weight limits : 20 pounds total for your dog and carrier combined
• Cabin crate size limits : 17″ length x 12.5″ width x 8.5″ height
• Maximum number of pets per passenger : 1 (A second pet can travel if an additional seat is purchased along with paying another pet travel fee.)
• Maximum pets per flight : 6
• Only one pet per carrier is permitted.
• Compliant pet carriers can be purchased at the ticket counter.

7. Alaska Airlines

Air travel with big barkers up to 150 pounds is possible with this cool carrier.

About : Jetting with a giant breed is possible with Alaska Airlines, with their 150-pound weight limit for pets and carriers combined leaving room for many breeds barred from other carriers. The airline is one of the most popular with pet owners, with Alaska Airlines pet policy allowing most sniffers to take to the skies.

• Cannot sit in emergency exit or bulkhead rows
• Must remain in a carrier at all times
• Carrier must remained stowed under a seat during taxi, takeoff, and landing
• Loud or odorous pets can be refused cabin travel and moved to cargo
• Doesn’t transfer pets traveling in cargo to other carriers
• Cargo travel discontinued between November 15 and January 10 for flights 2000-2999 and flights 3300-3499
• Extreme temperatures may lead to suspended cargo pet travel
• Aggressive pets may be refused entry
• Pets cannot travel via baggage on the Airbus fleet
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds may not travel via cargo but are permitted to travel in the cabin if they fit into the required carrier.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the airline’s pet policy guidelines.
• Fee : $100 each way for dogs traveling in cargo or cabin. $105 if departing from Canada.
• Weight Limits : Up to 150 pounds for crates and canines combined in cargo.
• Hard-sided  17″ x 11″ x 7.5″
• Soft-sided 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : 26″ X 24″ x 36″, Boeing 737, Horizon Air Q400 and E175, and SkyWest ERJ-175 aircraft may allow 30″ x 27″ x 40″
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : Maximum of 2 carriers per paid passenger, but you must purchase the seat adjacent to you. Up to 2 pets of the same species per carrier for cabin dwellers, only 1 per cargo carrier unless they’re similarly sized puppies less than 6 months old.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : First class can accommodate 3 carriers, while the main cabin can handle 5 carriers.
• Age Limits : Must be older than 8 weeks.
• Health certificate dated within 10 days required for checked pets.
• Aggressive pets may be denied entry.

8. Hawaiian Airlines

Best Pet-Friendly Airline for the Hawaiian Islands

About : Say aloha to the islands with your pup by flying Hawaiian Airlines, a carrier that jets between islands as well as to and from North America and other destinations. Their pet policy is spread around their FAQs, but tracking down answers isn’t too tricky, though the limitations require close attention.

• Not permitted in First Class between Hawaii and North America
• Not allowed between Hawaii and JFK, BOS, MCO, or AUS airports
• Not permitted internationally
• Not permitted between Hawaii and Pago Pago
• Passengers with pet carriers cannot sit in emergency exit rows, seats adjacent to emergency exit rows, or in the bulkhead
• Not permitted between Hawaii and JFK, BOS, MCO, or AUS airports
• Not permitted during yearly embargo period due to weather (April 15 to October 15)
• Not permitted internationally (May not apply between Hawaii and Japan for active duty personnel)
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds are discouraged but not banned.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the pet policy guidelines.
• $125 for cabin travel if traveling from North America
• $35 for cabin travel if flying from within the limits of Hawaii
• $60 if traveling in cargo between Hawaiian islands.
• $225 for cargo travel if traveling to and from North American continent
• Cabin: Carrier and pet combined cannot exceed 25 pounds.
• Cargo: Carrier and pet combined cannot exceed 70 pounds. If your pet is heavier, contact support for potential options.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Carriers must be soft-sided and cannot exceed 16” length x 11” width x 9.5” height.
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : 36″ length x 25″ width x 27″ height maximum
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet carrier per pet. 
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : None listed.
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older.
• Pet carriers may contain up to 2 pets if they’re less than 6 months old and of the same species.
• Travel between Hawaiian Islands does not require a health certificate, but those traveling to and from elsewhere need a health certificate dated within 14 days of flying.
• Hawaiian Airlines does not offer carriers if yours does not comply. Your pet will be refused flight.
• The state of Hawaii has strict rules surrounding rabies and vaccination status.

A 40-pound weight limit allows most small dogs to fly in the cabin with this carrier.

About : Spirit’s pet policy allows dogs up to 40 pounds to fly as long as they fit comfortably in the assigned carrier size, leaving wiggle room for pups who exceed the strict weight limits of other airlines. Pricing is reasonable, too, and there aren’t any breed-specific bans in place.

• Passengers with pets can’t sit in the first row or emergency exit seats
• Pets are only permitted on domestic flights, not international
• Traveling dogs cannot be odorous, disruptive, or in distress
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No breed-specific bans.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must follow Spirit’s pet policy.
• Fee : $110 each way
• Weight Limits : Carrier weight cannot exceed 40 pounds.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 18″ long x 14″ wide x 9″ tall
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 carrier pet passenger, which can contain up to 2 pets if housed comfortably.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 6
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older and fully weaned
• Pets must check-in at a service counter, not a self-serve kiosk.
• Health certificates aren’t required for boarding, but always check destination requirements to ensure compliance.
• Proof of vaccinations isn’t required by the airline, but may be needed depending on your destination.

10. Allegiant

A $50 pet fee makes Allegiant one of the cheapest options for flying with your pooch.

About : Low-cost airline Allegiant has a bare-bones pet travel policy compared to others, taking the squeeze off paperwork-wary pet parents and saving your treat money for fun things. That said, you still need to comply with destination document requirements.

• Sick, violent, distressed, or disruptive animals aren’t permitted to travel
• Pets can’t travel in exit rows, bulkheads, or one row before or after exit rows
• Animals must remain in the carrier at all times
• Carrier must remained stowed under the seat during takeoff and landing
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions listed.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Emotional support animals must follow the pet guidelines.
• Fee : $50 per carrier each way
• Weight Limits : Only small pets that can fit into the designated crate size are permitted.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 9” high x 16” wide x 19” deep
• 1 carrier per passenger
• No more than 2 pets per carrier (pets must get along and be able to fit comfortably)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : None listed.
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older
• Allegiant requires no health certificate for traveling pets, but they also assume no responsibility for your dog’s health or well-being in the cabin.
• All pet travelers must arrive one hour before their designated flight time to check for compliance.

A lack of a health certificate requirement might save you time, but it also leaves your pet vulnerable to traveling around animals that may not be in tip-top shape.

11. Frontier

At $99 per pet, this airline’s pet fees let you save your doggy dough.

About : Budgeting for your fur-flying trip is made easier with Frontier’s low-cost pet fees. They may not be the most affordable option, but they’re certainly worth considering if you’re trying to keep your travel costs low. Frontier’s pet flight policy is straightforward too, saving time on research.

• Dogs that bark or whine excessively, smell offensive, or act aggressively may be turned away
• Passengers traveling with a pet cannot sit in row one or exit rows 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must fly under Frontier’s pet guidelines.
• Fee : $99 per pet, per flight.
• Weight Limits : None listed.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 18″ length x 14″ width x 8″ height
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet per passenger.
• While Frontier doesn’t require health certificates, your destination may, even domestically, so always triple-check to be sure you’re in compliance.
• Coverage includes all U.S. domestic flights and international flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.
• Pre-assigned seating eliminates the stress of landing the right seat.

12. Air Canada

A Canadian carrier offering service to pet parents to a variety of destinations across Canada.

About : Visit Canada with your canine on Air Canada, an airline whose rules for pet flight are long yet thorough. Rules vary by season for safety’s sake, so keep a close eye on dates and check with customer service to avoid any surprises.

• Pets cannot travel in Business class on Boeing 737 Max 8 aircrafts
• Pets cannot travel in Premium Economy
• Only 1 pet is permitted per carrier
• Cannot be seated in a bulkhead or exit row
• 2 pets may travel in the same carrier in cargo, but they can’t weigh more than 31 pounds each. (You’ll still have to pay 2  fees)
• Brachycephalic breeds are not permitted to travel in the cargo hold.
• “Strong dog” breeds and crossbreeds must be transported via special carriers in cargo. This list includes the Caucasian shepherd, kangal, pit bull-type breeds, all mastiffs, Rottweilers, and wolf hybrids. This restriction doesn’t apply to puppies between 3 and 6 months old.
• Pit bulls are banned in Ontario and cannot fly to the province.
• Are ESAs allowed?: ESAs must follow pet rules.
• Fee: Varies by minimum and maximum tax that’s based on your itinerary which ranges between $50 and $59 for a one-way fee for flights within Canada, and $100 to $118 for a one-way fee for international flights. 
• Cabin weight limit is 22 pounds for your dog and carrier
• 100 pounds for the carrier and pet if traveling in cargo (If heavier, contact support to discuss possible options)
• 8” H x 16” W x 17” L for Boeing 787-9 
• 8” H x 16” W x 14.5” L for Boeing 787-8 
• 8.25” H x 15” W x 17” L for Boeing 777-300ER and Boeing-200LR 
• 7.75” H x 15.75” W x 17” L and soft-sided for Airbus A321, Airbus 220, Airbus A320, Airbus a319, and Boeing 737 Max 8
• Cargo Crate Size Limits: 115” in linear dimensions max (If larger, contact support to discuss options)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger: 1 per passenger
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight: Between 2 and 4, depending on flight
• Age Limits: 12 weeks or older and fully weaned
• Travelers with pets must arrive at least 30 minutes before their recommended check-in time and speak with an agent, as pets cannot be checked-in via kiosk.
• Pets are allowed in Maple Leaf Lounges but must remain in a carrier.
• Aggressive dogs may be refused for travel.
• Winter travel restrictions bar dogs less than 10 pounds from traveling in cargo and can’t travel in certain aircraft. No pets are accepted for any travel between December 18 and January 4.
• Pet travel to warm climates is banned during certain periods, depending on destination.

13. Lufthansa

A German-based, fur-friendly flier with loads of international routes.

About : Traveling abroad with your best fur friend is possible with Lufthansa, a German airline that flies to cities around the world. Lufthansa’s pet travel policy is comprehensive, but certain aspects vary by flight, so always double-check requirements before booking.

• Must be kenneled and stowed under the airline seat at all times
• Pet cannot be disruptive or aggressive
• Must book no later than 72 hours before departure
• Dogs in Cargo: New cargo bookings have been discontinued.
• Brachycephalic dog breeds cannot travel in cargo
• Dogs classified as “fighting breeds” can only travel via the cargo in special crates. These breeds include the American bulldog, dogo Argentino, Kangal, Caucasian shepherd, and Rottweiler. The only exception for cabin travel is for dogs aged three to six months.
• Are ESAs allowed?: ESAs must follow Lufthansa’s pet policy.
• Fee: Varies by flight 
• Weight Limits: Pup and carrier must weigh less than 8 kg (17.6 pounds) combined
• Cabin Crate Size Limits: Soft-sided carriers must measure 22” x 16” x 9” or less
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger: 2 pets per passenger (if traveling via cabin, must be in same carrier)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight: None listed, but bookings are issued on a first come, first serve basis.
• Age Limits: 12 weeks or older
• Health certificate issued within 10 days of flying required.
• Pets are allowed in Lufthansa lounges but must be contained in a carrier.
• Pet parents must complete 2 copies of Lufthansa’s transporting an animal in the passenger cabin form.
• All pet carriers must be lined in an absorbent material (puppy pad).
• 2 pets must travel in separate carriers unless they’re puppies or adults of comparable size or a mother and her pup aged 6 months or younger.

14. Avolar Pets

About : Avolar Pets is a public charter operator that takes you and your pooch to the skies in style by utilizing a network of private jets for shared travels with other pet parents wanting more than standard service. You won’t need to navigate throngs of travelers, as its flights depart from private terminals to make boarding as stress-free as possible. Best of all, your barker isn’t relegated to a carrier or cargo — leashed pups ride right in the cabin!

• Dogs in Cabin : Yes, leashed dogs are welcome
• Dogs in Cargo : No
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Dependent on destination (Example: The UK has a ban on American pit bull terriers)
• Fee : Varies by flight
• Weight Limits : None
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : N/A
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 2 pets per passenger, with restrictions
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 20
• Age Limits : Minimum canine age requirement varies by destination
• Each passenger is permitted one pet over 50 pounds or 1 leashed dog under 50 pounds and 1 pet under 50 pounds in a travel carrier
• Arrive 1 hour prior to departure
• Pup passengers lie on the floor next to their owners during the flight
• Flights are confirmed once a 75% passenger and pet threshold is met for the route
• If threshold is not met at least 21 days before departure, your flight may be canceled and issued a full refund
• No refunds are issued unless your flight is canceled by the airline
• Limited flight routes are available, but more may be added in the future
• Service reviews pet travel documents four to six days before departure to ensure clearance
• Overly aggressive dogs are not permitted

General Tips for Flying with Your Pet

Flying to a destination with your furry adventure buddy is loads of fun, but to keep it that way, you should follow a few rules of the skies, including: 

• Book early. Most airlines limit the amount of pets allowed per flight. To snag one of these coveted spots for your sniffer, book your trip as soon as possible.
• Double-check all of the details with the airline. When in doubt, ask. Airline rules are ever-changing, especially with continued complications in a post-pandemic world. It’s better to dot all of your Is and cross your Ts than to be surprised at check-in.
• Select an airline-ap p roved crate when flying cargo . Carriers come in all shapes and sizes, many of which aren’t airline compliant with their gadgets and gizmos. Check size requirements with your airline and other concerns, such as acceptable materials or rules about crate locks. Also, note that these can vary by dog breed.
• Talk to your vet. Square away vaccination updates and health checks before planning any trips with your pup. It’s important to determine if your dog is fit to fly and to have your ducks in a row paperwork-wise for vaccinations.
• Pack medications. Sometimes travel brain gets the best of us and we forget the most important everyday items like underwear or your dog’s medications. If possible, these should be among the first supplies you pack. They should be in their original containers with your vet’s information too to avoid any transparency problems.
• Consider your pet’s needs over yours. Not every dog likes to fly or is well-suited for flight. Health issues and personality quirks can put unnecessary stress on your canine. While you may be looking forward to taking in the sights and sounds of an exotic locale, your dog may be too anxious to enjoy such a trip. Sometimes staying home with a trusted petsitter is best.
• Can’t fly? Consider ground transportation . If your dog isn’t a good fit for flying, there are plenty of great pet ground transportation services that can drive your dog to your final destination. With shared van and private van options, you can usually find a service that won’t break your budget (although overall, pet ground transport is definitely pricier than flying, as it takes longer and requires more manual labor on the driver’s part).

Check out our top tip s for flying with your dog . We explain everything you need to know to make your upcoming trip a blast!

Pet-Friendly Airlines: FAQ

Flying with your dog can be a head scratcher sometimes. Check out these commonly asked questions to brush up on your knowledge about traveling by air with your dog.

Is it safe to travel with your pet?

In many cases, yes.

Most healthy dogs fly in an airplane’s cabin without issue, especially the most travel-friendly breeds .

Risks increase if your dog is brachycephalic (short-faced,) medically frail, or traveling in the cargo area. Most airlines do not even allow any kind of plane travel for brachycephalic breeds or breeds that are prone to issues like overheating.

Traveling by air with young puppies or seniors is also not advised and often not allowed by major airlines.

If you have any concerns about your dog’s safety during travel, contact your vet to discuss if flying is the best option or if a staycation is a better pupper plan.

What is the safest airline for pets?

According to a 2018 report by the Department of Transportation detailing incidents involving the loss, injury, or death of animals during air transportation, airlines reporting zero incidents include Horizon Air, Republic Airways, Endeavor Air, Mesa Airlines, ExpressJet Airlines, GoJet Airlines, Compass Airline, CommutAir, Envoy Air, and Sun Country Airlines.

However, it’s worth noting that these airlines transported far fewer animals than major carriers, with the majority flying less than 10,000 animals annually.

Alaska Airlines reported the least incidents among major airlines, with 1 injury per 143,634 pets flown. SkyWest Airlines and American Airlines also experienced fewer incidents. The worst-performing major airline was Hawaiian Airlines, with 3 deaths in the 9,505 pets flown.

Despite the media hyper-focusing on pet deaths while flying, these occasions are very rare. Pet travel by plan is generally quite safe.

What documents do I need for my pet to fly?

The documents needed vary by airline and destination. Some ask for nothing, while most require a health certificate.

Completed by a vet, this certificate states that your dog is healthy enough to fly and free of infectious diseases. Shot records may also be required, depending on the airline and destination. International flights generally have the strictest document requirements.

What are some of the new airline pet restrictions after the pandemic?

The pandemic greatly affected pet travel with employee shortages and an uptick in flight cancellations. In response, airlines have limited cargo shipment of animals, some have banned emotional support animals, and others increased fees for pets traveling in the cabin.

The CDC has also tightened the rules surrounding dogs coming to the United States , with new age, vaccination, microchipping, and location restrictions. This is in response to several rabies-infected dogs arriving in the U.S. during the pandemic.

Which airlines allow dogs on the plane?

Several airlines allow dogs to fly, including American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, and JetBlue. However, airline canine travel rules vary, so always call ahead to ensure your pooch can take to the skies.

Does federal law allow dogs on airplanes?

Federal law leaves it up to airlines if pets are permitted to travel via cabin with passengers or as cargo. These restrictions do not apply to service animals. Federal law states that service animals are allowed in the cabin of any airplane and aren’t subject to carrier or health certificate requirements. There’s also no limit on the number of service animals on a flight.

Can my dog sit on my lap during a flight?

Probably not. Most airlines require dogs to stay kenneled in an airline-approved pet carrier and under the seat in front of you for the flight duration. This keeps you, your pet, and other passengers safe in case of turbulence and other airtime events.

Can pets fly alone?

Maybe. Some airlines allow pets to fly alone while others do not. There are many pet transport services that can aid in canine travel if you can’t travel with them.

What is the best airline for traveling with a pet?

Our top pick for the best airline to travel with a pet is JSX. Since the flights are semi-private and you can take any sized dog onto the plane without a crate, it’s the ideal flying experience for you and your pooch. The only downside is that there aren’t many flight destinations, and the tickets can be pricey.

Have you flown with your dog? Did you fly with any of the airlines on our list or another? Any tips for other travelers with pups? Share your experiences with us. We’d love to hear!

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• Special assistance

Carry on or transport your pet

Depending on animal breed and size, they can travel as a carry-on or be transported through American Airlines Cargo. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements.

We only accept checked pets at the ticket counter for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Fees and restrictions apply.

Fully-trained service dogs may fly in the cabin at no charge if they meet the requirements.

Service animals

Which destinations allow travel with pets?

You can travel with a pet on most flights up to 12 hours or flights to / from select locations:

• Within the 48 contiguous United States
• The U.S. and Canada*
• Puerto Rico

*Additional special restrictions may apply when traveling with pets to / from these destinations.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a temporary suspension of dogs (carry-on or checked), including fully trained service dogs, traveling to the United States (U.S.) from a country considered high-risk for dog rabies.

Only service dogs traveling to the U.S. from high-risk countries with an approved CDC Dog Import Permit, or that meet CDC U.S. vaccination and microchip requirements may fly on American. Contact Special Assistance to request travel with a cat or dog in cabin from a high-risk country.

CDC notice of temporary suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Dogs traveling to the U.S. from countries affected by ‘screwworm’ must meet specific requirements from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services (USDA APHIS VS), including fully trained service dogs.

USDA APHIS VS import requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

The Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources does not accept applications to import assistance or service animals of any species other than dogs.

An assistance or service dog which is accredited by an Australian State or Territory Government will also qualify. In most cases these animals are returning to Australia.

Australian requirements for assistance and service dogs Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

You’ll be responsible for fulfilling all entry requirements and must notify the department of the dog’s intended arrival at least 3 working days before export.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a suspension on the import of commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies.

Commercial dogs will not be permitted to enter Canada from the identified high-risk countries.

CFIA notice of suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Carry-on pets

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to Jamaica.

Additional restrictions

When traveling with a pet to Trinidad and Tobago (POS), you cannot arrive on a flight before 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Continental U.S.

Within the u.s..

Pets traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico must be at least 8 weeks old.

To the U.S.

All dogs (carry-on and checked) traveling to the U.S. must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from Hawaii.

Checked pets

You can travel with your pet to Hawaii as a checked pet if you:

• Only connect via Honolulu (HNL)*
• Follow Hawaii’s quarantine rules

Animal quarantine rules in Hawaii Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

*No pets are accepted on departures out of Honolulu prior to 8 a.m. HT between March 5 and November 1.

You cannot travel with your pet to Hawaii:

• On nonstop flights to Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii or Kauai
• If your pet is pregnant and past 45 days gestation

All pets traveling to Mexico must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Government regulations and vaccinations in Mexico Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

South America

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from:

Transatlantic

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transatlantic trips.

When traveling to the European Union (EU) with a checked pet, you’ll be responsible for completing all entry requirements. Your pet must have a tattoo or implanted microchip that matches the ID number on their vaccination card.

Apart from service animals, you can't travel with a checked pet to the U.K. or Ireland, but you can transport dogs and cats to London (LHR) and Manchester (MAN) with American Airlines Cargo.

Transport your pet with American Airlines Cargo Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Transpacific

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transpacific trips.

Japan exceptions

Although you can travel with a checked pet from Japan to Los Angeles (LAX) or Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), pets are not allowed as checked bags to Japan. According to USDA restrictions, animals should be offered water every 12 hours, so for travel with a checked pet to LAX or DFW, you must book a flight 12 hours or less.

If you’re traveling with a checked pet for travel from Japan, you’ll need to:

• Make sure your pet has a microchip and documents required by the country you are traveling to
• Notify the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service at least 7 days prior to departure to arrange an inspection

Japanese animal quarantine service Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

On flights with American you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if:

• You pay the carry-on pet fee
• Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight

You can bring only one additional item on board with your pet:

• A personal item like a purse or small handbag; or
• A carry-on bag that meets requirements and fits in the overhead bin

Carry-on bags

Remember, you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.

Pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply.

To add a carry-on pet to your trip, follow these steps:

• Find your trip on aa.com or the American app
• In the Special Services section, select ‘Add carry-on pets’
• Review and agree to the carry-on pet requirements
• Select the flights that you want your pet to travel on
• Confirm your carry-on pet to complete the changes

Find your trip

At the airport, go to the American ticket counter to pay the fee and ensure your pet and kennel meet the requirements.

We assume no liability for the health or well-being of carry-on pets. These rules are enforced:

• Pets must be small enough to fit comfortably inside the closed / zipped carrier.
• Non-collapsible kennels can’t exceed the under-seat dimensions of any aircraft included in your journey. Please contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.
• Soft-sided collapsible kennels are recommended and can be slightly larger but still need to fit under the seat without having to excessively collapse the kennel. They must be secure, padded, made of water-repellant material and have nylon mesh ventilation on 3 or more sides.

Carry-on kennel dimensions

Hard-sided kennel.

• Mainline flights on American: 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 centimeters (length + width + height)
• Regional flights on American Eagle: 16 x 12 x 8 inches / 40 x 30 x 20 centimeters (length + width + height)

Soft-sided kennel (recommended)

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 centimeters (length + width + height)

Contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.

Reservations and ticket changes

Flying in First / Business on an A321T?

• Pets must stay in their kennel during your flight and will need to be placed in a dedicated animal friendly compartment at the front of the plane during taxi, take-off, landing and turbulence
• The combined weight of the carrier and your pet can’t exceed 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs., weighed at check-in

We can only accept:

• 7 kennels on American flights, excluding service animals
• 5 kennels on American Eagle flights; 1 in First

Due to the lack of underseat storage space, carry-on pets are not permitted in First or Business on:

As recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), we don’t accept pets that have been sedated or tranquilized. Pets that have been given sedatives or tranquilizers are at a higher risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems at high altitudes.

If your pet is too large to fly in the cabin, it must travel with American Airlines Cargo. Keep in mind, we only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders, and the pet carrier must meet all kennel guidelines for checked-pets. If you don’t meet these requirements, your pet may not travel. Fees and restrictions apply.

Kennel guidelines for checked pets

We only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Up to 2 pets may be checked and they must meet the minimum age and health requirements of the destination. Since capacity is limited, we accept checked pets on a first-come basis.

When checking a pet, you need to:

• Contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel
• Check in at the ticket counter with your official orders
• Allow extra check-in time (at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight)
• Complete a checklist with an agent
• Provide a health certificate

To ensure the health and safety of your pet, the health certificate you provide must be issued by a vet within:

• 10 days of your travel
• 60 days of your return (travel on the same ticket)
• 10 days of your return (travel on a separate ticket)

All USDA health requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

American PetEmbark™

American Airlines Cargo offers the American PetEmbark™ service for pets that don’t qualify to travel as carry-on or checked pets.

Ship your pet through American PetEmbark™ Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

When checking in your pet, there are specific requirements for their kennel:

• Large enough for your pet to stand, turn, sit and lie down in a natural position (without touching any side or the top of the container)
• Must not exceed maximum size requirements of the aircraft you're traveling on
• Must not exceed maximum weight (combined pet and kennel) of 100 lbs. / 45 kgs.
• Be made of wood, metal, plastic or similar materials
• Have a door made of welded or cast metal
• Secured at the top and bottom with bolts or screws
• Secured by yourself with release cable ties on all 4 corners (we’ll provide complimentary ties)
• Be rigid and secure enough so the animal cannot escape through gaps or poke any body part through the container
• Be leak and escape proof with a secure fastened door
• Have ventilation on at least 3 sides for domestic U.S. travel and 4 sides for international travel
• Have separate food and watering dishes attached securely inside the kennel
• Have a small bag of food for a 24-hour period attached to the top
• Be clean and have absorbent material (no straw, hay or wood shavings)

If you travel with 2 of your pets in the same kennel, they must be:

• The same species (2 cats or 2 dogs)
• A similar size and weigh less than 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs. each
• Between 8 weeks and 6 months old

Aircraft restrictions and acceptable kennels

Checked pets cannot travel on:

• A321, A321H, A321neo, A321S

Cat restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic cats of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Exotic Shorthair

Cats must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Dog restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Affenpinscher
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Presa Canario
• Pug (all breeds)
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico. If you're traveling into the U.S., your dog's age and vaccine requirements depend on the risk of dog rabies where your trip starts. Dogs arriving from high-risk countries need to be at least 16 weeks old and have their rabies shots before traveling into the U.S.

Check if your trip starts in a high-risk country.

Flights with connections

If you’re traveling on a connecting flight, checked pets will only be able to connect through these cities:

• Charlotte, NC (CLT)
• Chicago O'Hare, IL (ORD)
• Dallas / Fort Worth, TX (DFW)
• Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
• New York Kennedy, NY (JFK)
• New York LaGuardia, NY (LGA)
• Miami, FL (MIA)
• Philadelphia, PA (PHL)
• Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
• Washington Reagan, DC (DCA)

Food and water

Due to Federal Regulations, you’ll need to provide written certification that:

• Your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours (with the specific time noted) before you deliver them to the airplane
• Is securely and visibly attached to the outside of the kennel
• Has your signature with the date and time you signed it

You’ll also need to provide feeding and watering instructions for a 24-hour period. Unless specified by a vet, you cannot leave instructions saying 'no food or water.'

If you’re flying with American Airlines, you can pay your pet travel fee at the airport or at a travel center with a credit card or paper voucher (where accepted). We don’t accept cash or checks for payment.

We don’t collect pet fees for other operating airlines on your trip (even if it has an American flight number). You’ll need to check in with each airline and pay your fees at check-in. To find out if you're on a partner airline, look for the words, "Operated by" on your ticket.

What's a codeshare?

*Fees shown apply for each destination without a voluntary stopover / connection of 4 hours or more. If your trip includes a voluntary stopover / connection of more than 4 hours, fees apply for each connection segment. All pet fees are non-refundable and apply per kennel, each way. Fees for transporting your pet with American Airlines Cargo may vary depending on the trip details and size of the animal and kennel.

**For tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024, the carry-on pet fee per kennel is $125 and for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024, the fee is $150.

Flights departing Canada

Find out how much you'll pay for pet and other fees on roundtrip and one-way flights departing Canada, displayed in CAD.

Pet and other fees - Canada

Temperature restrictions

We have temperature restrictions to make sure checked pets and pets traveling with American Airlines Cargo aren’t exposed to extreme heat or cold:

• In the animal holding areas
• At terminal facilities
• When moving the animals between terminal and the plane
• On a plane awaiting departure

You cannot travel with a pet if the current or forecasted temperature is above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

Pets not traveling in cabin cannot travel to / through / from Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS) or Palm Springs (PSP) May 1 – September 30.

You cannot travel with a pet if the ground temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

We may waive the cold temperature restrictions if you have a written letter from a licensed vet that includes:

• Your name and address
• Your pet’s name
• Your vet’s name and signature
• Your vet’s accreditation date and number
• The temperature your pet is acclimated to

The letter must be dated:

• Within 10 days of the first flight your pet will be on
• Within 30 days of any other trips in the same itinerary

You may need an additional letter for lengthy trips. If the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 degrees C), your pet cannot be checked even with a letter from your vet.

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

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Flying with Pets

If you intend to fly with a pet or service animal, the links below provide information to help ensure a smooth and enjoyable traveling experience.

• Can I take my pet through security?
• I have a service animal; what type of screening should I expect?
• Traveling with Animals
• Traveling with Pets (USDA)

How to Fly Internationally with a Dog

Categories International Travel with a Dog , Travel Europe , Travel with a Dog

Let’s face it, having to fly internationally with a dog is not fun, it’s a lot of work, and it’s stressful for both human and the furry friend.

But flying with a dog doesn’t have to be painful. While this article focuses specifically on flying internationally with a dog, a lot of the information can be useful for flying domestically with cats and dogs. 

Sora flew with us on many occasions, both domestically and internationally (both in the cargo hold and cabin), and we’ve cataloged our helpful hints into a single blog post.

Please keep in mind, since each airline has different rules ( like Delta who made changes in March of 2018  and Alaska Airlines in May 2018 ), it’s important to check with specific airlines for up-to-date information. However, the guidelines below should help get you started and cover most of the planning.

Is it Safe to Fly with a Dog?

If you’re considering flying with your dog, you have no doubt heard the horror stories about flying with pets, leaving you to wonder whether it is safe to fly with a dog .

I do think it is safe to bring your pet (both in cabin and as cargo), so long as you do extensive homework and prep work beforehand. Pets fly regularly without issue–think about animal shelters that transport between states or dog show attendees.

Some dog breeds, like pugs and other brachycephalic are not permitted to fly due to their body mechanics that cause respiratory failures.

If your dog is flying in the cargo , a sk if the cargo area is air-conditioned. This is essential to your dog’s health.

Keep in mind that airlines enforce temperature restrictions and will not fly with a dog if the forecasted temperature exceeds 85℉ or drops below 45℉. It’s best to find a flight that arrives early in the morning or late at night. 

Will Flying be Stressful for My Dog?

Most dogs will likely experience some stress flying. It will be a new high-stimulation environment and if your dog is not used to busy areas or being alone for long periods of time, they will feel more stressed.

Here are a few tips to best prepare your dog for a flight:

• Crate train
• Take your dog to high-distraction areas long before your flight
• Place train

The more reps you get in with training, the more relaxed and prepared your dog will be for the flight.

Do Your Research and Talk to Your Vet

Before booking your flight, check with your vet to ensure that your dog is in good enough health to fly. You will be required to present health documentation multiple times throughout your journey proving that you dog is in good health and is up-to-date on their vaccinations (more about this below).

Before booking your appointment with your veterinarian, check with your local USDA (if you’re in the US, otherwise your local national agriculture government arm) to check that your vet is an accredited veterinarian.

The vet must be endorsed by the USDA or the paperwork is not valid. 

Ask whether they have worked with individuals traveling abroad with their pets. It can be quite complicated and working with a knowledgeable veterinarian will make for a smoother process.

Will I Have to Quarantine My Dog?

The most frequently asked question we receive from people about traveling with a dog internationally is whether they will have to quarantine, and for how long. It seems a common misconception that when one travels with a dog that it must face a quarantine period. 

Fortunately, only a handful countries require quarantine. Rabies-free nations or islands generally impose the quarantine period.

Popular countries that require may quarantine include:

• New Zealand

Depending on the origin of the country, rabies-free nations may deny entry if you enter from a nation with high incidents of rabies .

Double check which zone your current country resides in before traveling. You may be surprised to learn that your country of origin has a high risk of rabies.

If the origin country is high risk for rabies, the destination may require a titer test from a certified location. Then, you must wait three months after the results come back before permission to travel

Required Documents to Fly Internationally with a Dog

Again, the requirements vary among each country, so check ahead of time. Many, but not all countries require the following:

• ISO microchip (which is a different frequency than the chips used in the United States)
• Recent rabies vaccination (most countries do not recognize the 3-year vaccine like in the US, we’ve found that most countries require annual shots, a titer test may also be accepted)
• Blood titer test in some cases (if coming from a high risk rabies country)
• Tick and tapeworm treatments administered a certain number of hours prior to entry (Norway required this, but most countries do not require this)
• Health certificates administered by your veterinarian no more than 10 days prior to entry
• Government export paperwork from the country of origin (Department of Agriculture or USDA equivalent)
• Pet Passport , if available otherwise paper certificates/documentation like rabies shot.

This all sounds like a lot, and initially it is, but once you’ve gone through the process once, you have most of what you need to take your pup to other countries.

The most important thing to remember is to look ahead at where you will be traveling and understand the entry requirements for each individual country.

Finding Specific Pet Import Requirements by Country 

Pet Travel is a great place to start to find out requirements, but always supplement the information by going to the destination country’s pet import policies and emailing the right contacts.

Occasionally, we cannot find anyone to email and we assume the information on the destination government website is correct.

If you’re in the US, go to the USDA APHIS – Pet Travel page and select your destination travel country. This has the most information on what you’ll need to get your export papers approved.

For example, if you’re traveling to Germany, you’ll be able to select the country and view the EU Pet Requirements and download the forms. 

Some countries will give you a phone and fax number to call and fax your notice of entry to the airport veterinarians who will check your dog’s credentials after the flight. Make this phone call 24 hours before you land.

The majority of the time we have had no contact before our arrival and it really depends on the destination. Norway, for example was particularly specific on their rules of calling in advance.

Booking Your Flight

Call your airline before booking your flight to understand their rules about pets and ensure that your dog will be allowed on that particular leg.

Airlines can only accommodate a few animals per flight, so you want to get your request in early.

Many airlines require a minimum three-hour layover for those traveling with dogs as cargo. Be sure to check your individual airline’s rules about dogs and layovers.

During the layover, the staff sometimes take the animals to a dog area where they are walked, fed, given water, and go to the bathroom in between flights. Confirm this is the case with your airline (I can confirm that Lufthansa offers this service).

Once you’ve booked your flight, call again and make sure they know that you will be bringing a dog. You can never call them too often.

Before booking your flight for your large dog who will be flying in cargo, be sure to ask these 14 questions . 

Where do Dogs go to the Bathroom on Planes?

To best prevent an accident during a flight, limit your dog’s water intake prior to the flight (don’t deny them water, but don’t allow them to have a ton a few hours before departure). Make sure that they go potty as close to departure time as possible.

If your pet is flying in cabin, you may not allow them to relieve themselves on the plane. You will have to wait until the layover or arrival. Most airports in the US now have pet relief areas , so just check with staff once you exit the gate to inquire the nearest location.

If your dog is flying in cargo, you may want to line the kennel with puppy pads , in case your dog needs to relieve themselves during the flight. I also recommend placing a travel dog bed beneath the puppy pads for additional cushioning in the kennel.

Which Dog Kennel is Needed to Fly Internationally with a Dog?

Airlines have very specific requirements for kennels for flying with a dog . Generally, the kennel or crate size needs to be larger. 

Make sure to follow these guidelines exactly. They can refuse your dog if the kennel does not meet their guidelines. Go to your airlines website and find their pet policy.

Make sure to purchase a kennel that is International Air Transport Association (IATA) certified .

It will have the exact rules for flying with your dog. Make sure to go over this a few times before and leading up to your departure. You can and should check with the airline to make sure you have the correct size. 

Most airlines require water and feeding bowls attached to the inside of the kennel. I like the MidWest Homes for Pets Snap’y Fit Stainless Steel Food Bowl / Pet Bowl mounted to the inside with wing nuts. This ensures the bowls will stay attached.

When purchasing the kennel, measure your dog according to the IATA sizes and choose the kennel size that best fits your dog.

The kennel sizes run in 4 categories and are standardized based on size. You can find the size needed by using the Guidance for Dimensions of Container at IATA.

Food and Water

Flying on a full stomach might upset your dog, so it is best not to feed your dog more than four hours prior to the flight.

Continue to give your dog water leading up to takeoff, and make sure to give them a walk outside the terminal before heading through security to make sure they’ve eliminated as much as possible.

Checking on Your Dog before, during, and after the Flight

Don’t be afraid to ask the airline staff at the gate to check on the status of your dog. You can also ask during a layover with any attendant from your airline.

Be sure to let the captain and the flight attendants know that you are traveling with your dog in cargo, so they are aware in case anything goes wrong with equipment like air conditioning or cabin pressure during the flight.

Don’t shy away from asking about your dog or cat because you don’t want to come across as a nervous Nancy.

Each airline and airport are different. Sometimes, your dog may come out on the conveyor belt, other times, they will be the last to unload and will come out in a special area. Ask the airline staff what to expect.

Resist the urge to let your dog out until you have cleared customs, airport staff will tell you to just put her back in the kennel.

Your dog will likely be scared, overwhelmed, and disoriented. Avoid giving your dog too much attention and just let them take everything in on their terms.

At customs clearance, they will ask for all of your paperwork, stamp it, and then hopefully you’ll be on your way. Once outside of the airport doors, let that pup out to go potty and stretch those legs!

Here’s some of our favorite gear to make flying easier for your dog⟶

Pin for later.

Saturday 9th of September 2023

We wish to bring our 31 lb (15kg) mini labradoodle to Italy with us in December 2023 (we will spend 8 months in Italy). United and Delta fly New York -> Milan, direct. Looking at their websites, it appears that they do not allow pets to travel in cargo (which is where ours would have to go, since she's above the cabin weight limit) - is that really true?!! Difficult to call and ask about it, as the hold times are 1hr or longer!

Jen Sotolongo

Monday 18th of September 2023

It could be due to the time of year (sometimes airlines don't allow animals to travel in cargo due to outside temperatures). I'm afraid that your best bet is to call and confirm. Sorry I don't have a better answer!

Thursday 13th of July 2023

Can two small dogs travel in same kennel?

Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

I don't believe so, and I wouldn't recommend it, personally. If one gets scared or something like that, they could get into a fight, resulting in serious injuries or even death. It's just not worth the risk to me.

Jessica Fitzpatrick

Thursday 15th of June 2023

Hi, any experience with Istanbul airport during long layovers? My dog will be checked baggage and the layover is 6 hours. Wondering what happens to her during this time.

Tuesday 20th of June 2023

Sorry, Jessica. I've not flown into Istanbul with a dog. Usually the airline takes animals into a quiet room and gives them food and water and a bit of exercise, if possible. Your airline should know what the process is.

Sunday 6th of November 2022

My husband and I are moving to Europe in January and are bringing our dog. We are likely going to be going to Austria but we may fly to Munich and take the train to Austria. 1. Are we allowed to fly to Munich with our dog? 2. Do his papers get checked in the US before we go to Germany or Austria and when we get there? 3. Once we get him in baggage and take him to customs, do they just check his papers or do they typically ask to see the dog, scan his chip, etc?

Tuesday 8th of November 2022

Hi Arielle, every country is different, but yes, you can fly to Munich with your dog. I don't see why there would be a reason that you cannot, but you need to check with both the correct government department in Germany and your airline (which I assume will be Lufthansa, who is great with animals). Your dog's papers will be checked before you leave in the US and also when you enter the EU. You may have to make an appointment to meet a representative at the airport in Germany, again this is a question for the government. They may scan his chip, but in my experience, they have not required this in the EU when I have flown, but again, each country is different, so I'd discuss with the government in Germany to ensure you know the exact protocols!

Tuesday 18th of October 2022

Hello! I am considering traveling from LAX to Buenos Aires with my service dog. It is 6 hours to JFK, a 2 hr layover and then 10.5hrs to Buenos Aires. Do you think the second leg is too long for a dog to fly in the cabin?

Friday 21st of October 2022

Hi Gracie. It really depends on the dog, breed, age, and training. If your dog is calm, doesn't have separation anxiety, engage in destructive behaviors, and is in good health, then the second leg is probably fine, but you should definitely have a conversation with your veterinarian before booking your flight.

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Pet Travel on Delta

Embark on a journey with your favorite furry companion. Depending on their size, some pets can travel as your carry-on. Note:  Failure to comply with all pet policies and keep your pet in the kennel at all times while in the airport and onboard the aircraft may result in losing the ability to travel with your pet on future flights. Need to travel with your service animal? Explore our guidelines and requirements for trained service animals .

In-page Links

• Carry-On Pets , Go to footer note
• Booking Your Pet , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Kennel Requirements , Go to footer note
• Checking In With Your Pet , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Pet Fees , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Pet Exceptions , Go to footer note

Military Pet Travel

International pet travel, carry-on pets.

Small dogs, cats and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee that is collected at check-in. The pet must be able to fit in a soft-sided ventilated pet kennel that will go underneath the seat directly in front of you.

Please review the following requirements to ensure a safe and healthy flight with a small pet traveling as a carry-on:

• Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel.
• Your pet must be 16 weeks old if traveling to the U.S. from another country and at least 15 weeks old when traveling to the European Union.
• 1 female cat or dog may travel with her un-weaned litter if the litter is between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. There is no limit on the number of animals in the litter as long as they can fit safely in the kennel.
• 2 pets of the same breed and size between the ages of 8 weeks and 6 months may be allowed to travel in 1 kennel, as long as they are small enough to fit into a single kennel and are compatible. If the pets are allowed to travel in 1 kennel, they will be charged as 1 pet.

Pets in kennels will count as your 1 carry-on item. In addition to the kennel, you are permitted to bring 1 personal item on board the aircraft.

Seating With Your Pet

Customers with carry-on pets may not select seats in the following areas:

• Bulkhead seats
• An emergency exit row
• Seats designated as “no stowage”
• Flat-bed or Delta One seats
• Rows 46-51 on the A330-200 aircraft
• Rows 54-59 on the A330 -300 aircraft
• Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft

Booking Your Pet

Carry-on kennel requirements.

Be sure to check the aircraft dimensions of your flight to ensure your pet’s kennel will fit underneath the seat directly in front of you.

Your pet and kennel must also adhere to the following requirements:

• Your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel with the ability to move around without touching or sticking out from the sides.
• The kennel must fit underneath the seat directly in front of you.
• The soft-sided kennel must be leak-proof and have ventilation openings on 3 sides for domestic travel and 4 sides for international travel.
• The maximum carry-on kennel dimensions are determined by the aircraft dimensions of your flight, as the under-seat space varies by aircraft. Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.
• Your pet must remain inside the kennel with the door secured while in a Delta boarding area, during boarding and deplaning, while in a Delta Sky Club® and while on board the aircraft.

Checking In With Your Pet

When you arrive at the airport, you will need to visit the Special Service Counter to check-in with your pet. At check-in, a Delta agent will ensure your pet and kennel meet the necessary requirements for your trip and collect the required pet fee. Remember to allow extra time at check-in for us to ensure your pet is ready for take-off.

Once you are checked in and have your cabin pet tag, you are ready to go through the security checkpoint where you are required to remove your pet from their kennel.

After the security checkpoint, your pet must remain in their kennel while at the airport, unless they are in a designated relief area.

Delta Sky Club® Pets

Carry-on pet fees.

CAD amount will be charged to exit Canada, while EUR amount will be charged to exit Europe. These fees are established by the contract of carriage in effect at the time of ticket issuance.

Carry-On Pet Exceptions

For any travel to or from the following destinations — with the exception of service animals — pets must travel as cargo and are not permitted in the cabin:

• Pet travel is not allowed for pets originating in Brazil/Colombia
• Pet travel is not allowed on flights to Hawaii
• Jamaica  
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

Household birds are only permitted on domestic U.S. flights excluding flights to Hawaii, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Guam. Review based on your destination or connecting flights.

The CDC has an ongoing, temporary suspension that prohibits the entry of dogs, including trained service animals, into the United States from countries that are at high-risk for rabies. During the suspension, options for bringing dogs that have been in a high-risk country for rabies within the past 6 months will depend on where the dogs’ rabies vaccinations were administered, and the number of dogs being imported. Dogs from high-risk countries must appear healthy, be microchipped and at least 6 months of age. For dogs with a travel history in high-risk countries, please review the CDC’s guidance on importation .

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U.S. Airline Pet Policies: A Complete List of Travel Requirements

Planning to fly with your pet soon? Read our expert guide to airline pet policies for travel within the United States. Fully updated for 2019.

Editor’s Note (June 1, 2020): Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some airlines (for example, American Airlines) have temporarily suspended checked pet service. Please check with your airline in advance for the most up-to-date information relevant to your circumstances. Even if your airline is currently not taking pets, they still must allow service and emotional support animals.

Flying with a pet can be a stressful experience, particularly if it isn’t something you do often.

Each airport has its own policies and quirks. And on top of that, each individual airline enforces different procedures.

In an effort to streamline the information, we’ve create this updated list of the airline pet policies for all major U.S. airlines, as well as some helpful general knowledge, so flying with your pet isn’t such a headache.

Humane Travel

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has compiled a list of requirements to ensure humane travel conditions for pets on all flights, regardless of the airline.

These requirements address food, water, crate or carrier size and condition, ventilation, temperature and more. Airlines will refuse to allow your pet to fly if they feel the pet will be in unsafe conditions.

Most airlines will not allow your pet to fly if they are in a kennel that is too small or the pet is obviously sick or injured.

Airline Pet Policies

Alaska air group.

1-800-252-7522  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 1 carrier in the First-Class cabin, 5 carriers in the main cabin; 1 per passenger unless an adjacent seat is purchased, then a passenger may have 2.
• Price: $100 each way (cabin or baggage).
• Advance reservations: Recommended (holiday travel restrictions apply).
• Temperature restrictions: Pets may be refused if temperatures at any location on your itinerary “exceed certain limits,” which Alaskan Airlines does not specify. Other airlines have set limits of no hotter than 85 F (29.4 C) and no colder than 45 F (7.2 C).
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats, rabbits and household birds are allowed in the cabin. Cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, household birds, nonpoisonous reptiles, pot-bellied pigs , rabbits and tropical fish are allowed in cargo/baggage. Other pets must receive advance approval. Only dogs and cats are permitted to be flown to Hawaii. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats are not accepted for travel in the cargo compartment on Alaska Airlines flights, but they may travel with you in the cabin as long as you have a carrier that fits under your seat.
• Carrier maximum size: 7.5″H x 17″L x 11″W (hard-sided); 9.5″H x 17″L x 11″W (soft-sided); up to 150 pounds. Full list of kennel requirements for cargo here .

Pets are not permitted in the First-Class cabin or baggage compartment on Alaska Air’s Airbus planes.

Also, Alaska Airlines does not transfer pets to other airlines. You will need to pick up your pet after deplaning and recheck your pet on the new flight.

Fur-st Class Care  is an animal flight program with this airline that offers free pet health examinations and discounted health certificates at Banfield Pet Hospitals located in PetSmart stores.

American Airlines

1-800-433-7300 |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 5–7 carriers per flight (depending on plane), 1 per person.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin); $200 each way (baggage).
• Advance reservations: Required.
• Destination restrictions: Domestic travel may not include Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS) or Palm Springs (PSP) during the period of May 1–Sept. 30.
• Temperature restrictions: No hotter than 85 F (29.4 C) at any location on your itinerary; no colder than 45 F (7.2 C). The cold-weather restriction may be waived at temperatures as low as 20 F (-6.6 C) if you bring a signed note from your veterinarian. Talk to the airline about this possibility.
• Allowed animals: Cats and dogs. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats are not accepted for the cargo compartment (checked pets).
• Carrier maximum size: Depends on the plane, so contact the airline in advance. The usual dimensions seem to be 9″H x 19″L x 13″W (with larger carriers allowed in cargo).

Delta Air Lines

1-800-221-1212  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 2 pets in the First-Class cabin, 4 pets in the main cabin, 1 per person. Space is limited.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin). Cargo price is determined by the size of the carrier. Animals are not included in the free baggage allowance.
• Advance reservations: Required but cannot be booked before 14 days before departure.
• Allowed animals: Small dogs, cats and household birds (no birds allowed to Hawaii). No pit bull–type dogs in the cabin.
• Carrier maximum size: Determined by flight/type of plane. Contact the airline to determine cabin carrier size requirement. Baggage allows carriers of the dimensions 40″L x 28″W x 30″H, and cargo up to 32″L x 35″W x 48″H and 51 pounds.

Frontier Airlines

1-800-432-1359  |   Website

• Price: $75 each way (cabin only).
• Advance reservations: Recommended.
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and small household birds.
• Carrier maximum size: 18″L x 14″W x 8″H

Hawaiian Airlines

1-800-367-5320  |   Website

• Prices:  Cabin inter-island travel: $35. Cabin departing Hawaii travel: $175. No pets are allowed to travel in the cabin when arriving in Hawaii. Checked baggage: $60 (within Hawaii), $225 (when arriving or departing from North America). Cargo: Varies depending on weight of animal(s) + carriers. Call 1-800-367-5320 to discuss your specific needs.
• Advance reservations: Strongly recommended. For cargo, advance reservations are required.
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats and household birds.
• Carrier maximum sizes:  Cabin: 16”L x 10”W x 9.5”H; animal and carrier combined cannot exceed 25 pounds. Checked baggage: From 21”L x 16”W x 15”H and 18 pounds to 36”L x 24”W x 26”H and 70 pounds. Cargo: From 21”L x 15”W x 16”H and 26 pounds to 48”L x 32”W x 35”H and 277 pounds.

Note: We strongly recommend that you call Hawaiian Airlines directly to discuss your specific animal. Some animals cannot be shipped as cargo; others are prohibited from entering Hawaii.

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JetBlue Airlines

1-800-538-2583  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 4 per flight.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin only).
• Allowed animals: Dogs and cats.
• Carrier maximum size: 17″L x 12.5″W x 8.5″H, and the combined weight of pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds.

Note: Currently, JetBlue does not ship pets as cargo.

Southwest Airlines

1-800-435-9792  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 6 carriers per flight; 1 per person (carrier may contain 2 pets of the same species provided they both have room to comfortably turn around).
• Price: $95 each way (cabin only).
• Advance reservations: Required with an in-person payment at the ticket counter.
• Carrier maximum size: 18.5”L x 13.5”W x 8.5”H.

Spirit Airlines

801-401-2222  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 4 carriers per flight.
• Price: $110 each way (cabin only).
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats and household birds (no farm poultry, waterfowl, game birds, birds of prey or flightless birds).
• Carrier maximum size: 18″L x 14″W x 9″H and cannot exceed 40 pounds.

United Airlines

1-800-864-8331  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 2–4 per flight, depending on aircraft, and 1 carrier per person.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin); baggage and cargo rates are determined by size and weight of the carrier. Call United to discuss your pet’s needs before booking your trip.
• Allowed animals: Cats, dogs, rabbits and household birds (excluding cockatoos) are allowed in the cabin. Some breed restrictions apply to baggage/cargo animals for safety reasons .
• Carrier maximum size: 17.5”L x 12”W x 7.5”H (hard carriers), or 18”L x 11”W x 11”H (soft carriers).

Note: See United’s PetSafe Program for shipping animals as cargo.

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Almost all airlines allow properly documented service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) to fly for free.

Required documentation may include:

• Vaccination records (depending on where you are flying to/from)
• Letter from a mental health professional (ESAs only)
• Letter indicating animal’s ability to refrain from “accidents” while in flight
• Proper harnesses, leashes and restraints
• Correct visual aids identifying the animal as a service animal or ESA

Check with your airline to see its specific requirements, but be prepared to have the above documents in hand and answer questions at check-in. Most airlines require in-person check-ins at the ticket counter — you can’t use self check-in or curbside services. Also, ask your airline about boarding early.

Be aware that even if your animal is designated a service or emotional support animal, they may not be allowed or may be quarantined immediately upon arrival to your destination.

All airlines warn that if the service animal or ESA acts in an uncontrollable, aggressive or disruptive manner, they reserve the right to remove the animal and their handler from the flight. Be advised that because of the recent uptick in disruptive ESAs and so-called  “fake service dogs,” many airlines are taking a tougher stance on these animals.

Most airlines allow passengers to buy an extra seat for their service animal or ESA, but otherwise the animals may not sit in seats.

Exotic Pets

Most airlines do not accept exotic or unusual pets , regardless of their status.

These may include rodents, reptiles, arachnids, hedgehogs and ferrets, but this rule can apply to any animal. Call your airline and check the rules before booking a trip for you and your exotic pet.

Hawaii has restrictions of its own to adhere to because it is a rabies-free state and is stringent about what animals are allowed to enter.

Here are some more travel tips to follow when your pet joins you in the air:

Other Important Information

When transporting pets, there are some rules that are consistent between all airlines:

• Airlines will not transport pets as baggage or cargo if the temperature drops below or exceeds safe levels. Most list this as below 10 degrees F or above 85 degrees F.
• Brachycephalic (“short-nosed” or “flat-faced”) breeds of dogs and cats can’t fly as cargo or baggage on most airlines. These breeds tend to have more trouble  breathing in high elevations due to their shorter snouts.
• There are time limits as to how long an airline will allow a pet to be on a plane. If your flight is longer than 8–12 hours or has layovers or transfers, check with your airline to ensure your pet will be allowed to fly.
• Pets count as your carry-on baggage and are not covered under “free” policies. You will pay the pet fee, regardless of whether or not you have another carry-on item.
• You should give your pet food or water 4 hours before the flight. Most airlines do not allow you to feed or give water during the flight.
• We don’t recommend sedating your pet unless absolutely necessary. The elevation and sedation together may create health problems.
• You will be required to provide veterinary proof that your pet can fly. This can be a letter or certificate from a veterinarian and must be done within 10 days of departure and 30 days of return. If you are staying longer than 30 days, you need to have your pet recertified before boarding. Without this documentation, the airlines will not allow your pet to fly. (Service animals and ESAs are typically exempt from this policy, but check with your airline to be sure.)
• When traveling as cargo, your pet is not guaranteed to be shipped on your flight, and when traveling as baggage, pets can get lost — just like your suitcase.
• All your kennels or carriers should be clearly labeled with your name, phone number, address, your pet’s name and their pertinent medical information — and somewhere visible, make sure you write “Live Animal(s)” so airplane personnel know your pet is in there.
• In the event of an emergency, airlines will not provide oxygen to your pets.
• Anyone accompanying a pet must be at least 18 years of age.
• Always prepare to check in early when traveling with a pet. If you have the opportunity to reserve a spot for your pet in advance, take it. Many airlines only allow a few pets in the cabin area, and it’s usually first come, first served.
• Pets should be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
• Several airlines have “embargoes” throughout the year in which they will not transport pets as baggage or cargo. This includes when temperatures drop below or exceed safe levels and during the holidays .

Our Final Thoughts on Airline Pet Policies

There are many restrictions and regulations when it comes to transporting our pets by air, but accidents still happen.

The best defense your pet has is you :

• Educate yourself on what is expected from you, from your pet and from the airline.
• If text message updates are available, sign up for them.
• Keep abreast of what’s happening every step of of the way to ensure your pet’s safe journey.

Don’t leave your pet’s food safety to chance.

Sign up for petful’s recall alerts today. (it’s 100% free.).

Stay informed. Protect your pets.

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© 2024 Petful® / P51 Capital All rights reserved. Petful does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. More information.

7 Airlines that Allow Flying with a Large Dog in Cabin [2023 Pet Policies]

Traveling with pets can be a rewarding and memorable experience, but it requires careful planning and consideration. When it comes to flying with a large dog, many pet owners wonder about the feasibility and logistics involved. Unfortunately, many public airlines will only allow very small and light dogs to fly in the cabin. However, fortunately, there are some semi-private airlines that will allow flying with a large dog in cabin. This of course will cost you a little more, however it may be worth it for stress-free travel.

In this article, we will list the airlines that allow flying with a large dog in cabin and provide some travel tips. 

Which airlines allow flying with a large dog in cabin?

The following luxury, semi-private airlines will allow flying with a large dog in the cabin. However, as expected, they will cost you a lot more than commercial airlines, which sadly often only permit very small and light dogs in cabin.

1. Aero Pet Policy.

Aero is a US based semi-private airline that currently books flights from L.A. to Aspen, Las Vegas, Jackson Hole and Sun Valley. 

Well-behaved dogs are welcome to fly on all Aero jets flying in the US. Medium or large dogs are considered those weighing over 20Ib. When flying with a large dog in cabin, you must purchase an extra full-priced seat next to you. Bookings can be made via their Concierge team. 

Following are the Aero’s pet policies for flying with a medium-to-large dog in the cabin:

• There is no maximum weight limit for large pets however you must ensure they can remain in their seat for the duration of the flight.
• Dogs must be at least 4 months old.
• Dogs must be capable of not relieving themselves for the entire duration of the flight.
• Each guest may only bring one pet on board (maximum two per household), and they only permit two pets per flight.
• Pets will be booked on a first-come, first-serve basis until the limit is reached on board. Should the pet capacity be reached, this will be communicated on the website or by Concierge during booking.
• One passenger may not bring both a pet and an infant onboard without the assistance of a travel companion.

For more information check their website here.

2. BLADE Pet Policy.

BLADE is a semi private technology-powered, global urban air mobility platform that flies helicopters, seaplanes and jets.

They have services that fly between Manhattan and JFK or Newark airports, between Vancouver and Victoria in Canada and between Nice and Monaco in Europe. Alternatively, you can charter or crowdsource a flight anywhere in the world. 

a) Pets on BLADE Helicopters, Seaplanes and Turboprops.

On by-the-seat BLADE Airport flights, dogs under 25 pounds can sit in a carrier on their owner’s lap for a pet fee of $50. On all other by-the-seat rotorcraft flights, dogs under 25 pounds can sit in a carrier on their owner’s lap for a pet fee of $95.

When flying with a large dog, heavier than 25 pounds, in cabin the owner must purchase the dog an additional seat.

There is a maximum of two pets per passenger. For a single passenger with more than one pet, an additional seat must be purchased for the second pet, regardless of the pet’s weight.

If there are two unrelated larger dogs boarding a flight, the pilot may request that the two dogs stand leashed on the tarmac prior to boarding to familiarize themselves with each other, as to not cause any in-flight issues.

On chartered flights, pets can fly at no additional cost.

b) Pets on BLADE Jets.

On Jet flights like BLADEone , each passenger is entitled to bring one dog under 35 pounds for an additional $300 fee. For a single passenger with more than one dog under 35 pounds, an additional seat must be purchased (maximum of two dogs under 35 pounds per additional seat purchased).

An additional seat must be purchased for each dog over 35 pounds. Dogs do not require a carrier, but must be on a leash. 

On chartered land plane flights, pets can fly at no additional cost.

For more information check the BLADE website here.

3. JSX Pet Policy.

JSX is an independent air carrier in the US. They have domestic flights concentrated in the southern region of the country, but also have flights from the east to west coasts. Currently, there are flights to/from Arizona, California, Florida, Montana, Nevada, New York, Texas, Utah, and Washington.

JSX allows flying with medium to large dogs in-cabin with their owners. Customers are responsible for complying with any applicable laws and/or governmental regulations for both the departure and arrival destinations, including furnishing valid health and rabies vaccination certificates when required.

For dogs that are too large to occupy an approved under-seat pet carrier, customers are required to purchase an adjoining seat at the advertised rate, and the dog will be permitted to lay on the floor directly in front of the seat. To purchase your seat and your medium-to-large dog’s space, you can call their customer support line on (800) 435-9579 . You must inform the Airport Services Concierge upon check-in if you are traveling with a dog that requires an adjoining seat.

Customers with big dogs must fill out the  attached form.  A printed copy is required at check in.

Following are the JSX’s pet policies for flying with a medium-to-large dog in the cabin:

• One additional seat must be purchased by the customer, and one dog is permitted to occupy the floor space in front of an adjoining seat. Seat pricing varies by market and must be purchased at the current available rate for both Hop on and All in fares.
• Dogs must be leashed at all times.
• Dogs must weigh 79 pounds or less.
• Dogs must be well-behaved; and the JSX Pet Acceptance Liability Form must be presented before boarding. ASCs are to keep one copy with the flight paperwork. Customer must provide one completed form for booked segment of travel.
• Barking excessively and not responsive to an owner’s commands
• Aggressive behaviors towards other guests or animals (e.g. biting, growling, snapping, lunging, etc.)
• Freely wandering or running around without a leash
• Relieving themselves in the aircraft cabin or places other than designated pet relief areas
• Jumping on guests or JSX crew members
• Occupying an aircraft seat or seatback tray table
• Eating off seatback tray tables
• Leashed dogs may only occupy the space in front of the window seat (C), and the owner must sit in the adjoining aisle seat (B) of any row except for the bulkhead or emergency exit rows. Seats together must be available at time of booking.
• Dog carriers and pets are not allowed on aircraft seats. 
• A maximum of five pets total may travel in cabin on any one flight. JSX reserves the right to deny boarding to any additional pets, or to any pets that do not meet the requirements stated here.

For more information check the JSX website here. 

4. Surfair Pet Policy.

Surf Air is a jet membership service that flies all across the US. They include both scheduled semi-private flights and on-demand jet service. Memberships range from $199 per month to access their inventory of scheduled flights to $3,000 per month to unlock unlimited flight plans. Surf Air is LA-based, with many hubs in California and Texas, as well as a few in other states. They have plans to expand to Europe in the near future.

Flying with a large dog is permitted on Surfair as long as they are harnessed and well behaved. You will need to purchase an additional seat for your dog. 

Following are the Surfair’s pet policies for flying with a medium-to-large dog in the cabin:

• All dogs must be at least four months old, weigh not more than 100 pounds, and be clean, well-behaved, and have current vaccinations, e.g., for rabies and distemper.
• If Surf and/or the Operator in their sole discretion permit a second animal on a flight arranged by Surf, the combined weight of both animals must not exceed 100 pounds.
• Approval for travel with a dog will not occur until the animal arrives at the airport and Surf personnel and the Operator’s representative(s) inspect the dog.
• You must ensure that your dog does not engage in any disruptive, threatening, damaging, destructive, or other inappropriate behavior.
• You must ensure that your dog are properly secured at all times.
• Dogs that are not secured within a kennel must be secured with a quick-release leash.
• On board the aircraft, animals may not protrude into or block aisles or exit routes.
• If a Single-Use Flight Pass has been purchased for a large dog, and if requested by the Passenger in writing at the time the Passenger books the flight for the animal, the animal may occupy a seat so long as it is harnessed.
• Unless kennelled in the baggage area of the cabin, a small animal must rest on the lap of its Passenger while on board the aircraft.

For more information check the Surfair website here.

5. Tradewind Aviation Pet Policy.

Tradewind Aviation is a Connecticut-based air service that operates both on-demand and scheduled flights throughout the US and Caribbean. Within the US, they fly to a number of places such as Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Newport, Rhode Island and Stowe, Vermont. They also fly to more exotic locations in the Caribbean such as San Juan, St Barthes, Anguilla, Antigua and St Thomas.

Following are the Tradewind Aviation’s pet policies for flying with a medium-to-large dog in the cabin:

• They allow flying with pets of all sizes, including a large-breed dog.
• They limit one party with pets per flight.
• If flying with a large dog over 100 pounds, you must purchase an additional seat.

For more information check the Tradewind website here.

Do any commercial airlines allow flying with a large dog in cabin?

Unfortunately, the majority of commercial airlines only allow flying with small dogs in cabin. However there the following airlines allow more than the average 8kg/20lb threshold.

Spirit Airlines Pet Policy.

Spirit Airlines specifies that the combined weight of the pet and carrier may not exceed 40 pounds (18.14 kg).

Spirit Airlines’s pet policies for flying with a dog in the cabin are as follows:

• Spirit Airlines does not require a health certificate for dogs traveling with guests in the aircraft cabin, except for passengers traveling to USVI.
• Spirit Airlines does require a rabies vaccination certificate for dogs traveling with guests in the aircraft cabin to Puerto Rico.
• A maximum of 2 pets per container is permitted, but only one container per guest is allowed. 
• Dogs must be able to stand upright and move about comfortably in the container. 
• Dogs must remain in the carrier for the duration of the flight.
• Your dog should be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned. 
• Your dog must be harmless, inoffensive, odorless, and require no attention during the flight. If your dog becomes offensive or causes a disturbance prior to leaving the gate; it will be removed.
• Your dog cannot be ill, violent, or in physical distress. 
• The combined weight of your dog and its carrier may not exceed 40 pounds (18.14 kg).

Spirit Airlines will deny boarding to any passenger accompanied by a pet that does not comply with all the above rules.

La Compagnie Pet Policy.

This French boutique airline, allows small dogs and cats (under 15 kg, or 33 lbs) who can travel with you in the cabin at a fee equal to 10% of your ticket fare. 

La Compagnie’s pet policies for flying with a dog in the cabin are as follows:

• Your dog must be microchipped (this must be done before the rabies vaccination). All vaccination shall be up to date and effective. The anti-rabies vaccination is mandatory. In the case of a first anti-rabies vaccination, the vaccine is effective from 21 days after inoculation (vaccination counts as day 0 and not day 1) until 1 year.
• Your pet passport , including the certificate of good health, must not be issued more than 5 days prior to the outbound journey and more than 15 days prior to the return journey. The certificate of good health is included in the passport and shall be filled before departure.
• Dogs must follow a tapeworm treatment no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before entry.
• Your dog must travel in an aerated pet carrier (21 ⅔ /13 ¾/ 9 ⅚ in) that will be stowed in front of your seat and remain inside of it during the whole flight.
• A maximum of 3 pets are allowed on any given flight. 

La Compagnie will deny boarding to any passenger accompanied by a pet that does not comply with all the above rules.

Related post:  15 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In Cabin [Pet Policies]

What commercial airlines do not have a weight limit for dogs?

There are a few commercial airlines that do not state a specific weigh limit. Instead, they specify that the dog must be able to fit in the kennel comfortably. This means that they must be able to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably. However, while the weight of the dog and carrier doesn’t matter, the size and dimensions do.

The following commercial airlines don’t have a weight limit for dogs and their carrier:

American Airlines Pet Policy.

• Pets must be able to stand up and turn around, fitting comfortably inside the closed / zipped carrier.
• Non-collapsible kennels can’t exceed the under-seat dimensions of any aircraft included in your journey. Please contact reservations to verify maximum dimensions.
• Soft-sided collapsible kennels are recommended and can be slightly larger but still need to fit under the seat without having to excessively collapse the kennel. They must be secure, padded, made of water-repellant material and have nylon mesh ventilation on 3 or more sides.

Hard-sided kennel restrictions:

• Mainline flights on American: 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 cm 
• Regional flights on American Eagle: 16 x 12 x 8 inches / 40 x 30 x 20 cm 

Soft-sided kennel restrictions:

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 cm 

Contact reservations to verify maximum dimensions.

Delta Airlines Pet Policy.

• Your pet carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.
• Be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel without touching or protruding from the sides of the kennel and have the ability to move around.
• The soft- or hard-sided kennels must be leak-proof and have ventilation openings on three sides (four sides for international travel).

Kennel restrictions: 18” x 11” x 11” will fit most flights however maximum carry-on kennel dimensions vary on different flights as the space under seats will difer.

Please check your flight’s aircraft dimensions   to ensure your kennel will fit.

Southwest Airlines Pet Policy.

• The cat or dog must be completely inside the pet carrier and be able to stand up and move around the carrier with ease.
• Acceptable pet carriers must be s pecifically designed as pet carriers (can be soft or hard). They must be l eak-proof and well ventilated.

Pet carrier restrictions are as follows:

• Southwest Airlines® Pet Carrier – dimensions: 17” x 10” x 9.5”
• Other pet carriers with maximum dimensions of 18.5” x 13.5” x 9.5” 

United Airlines Pet Policy.

• Dogs must travel in either a hard-sided or soft-sided carrier.
• This carrier must fit under the seat in front of you or you cannot fly with your pet.
• There can only be one pet per carrier.
• They must be able to stand up and turn around while inside. 

17.5 x 12 x 7.5 inches / 44 x 30 x 19 cm

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 cm

For a extended list check  15 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In-Cabin [Prices & Policies] .

How do I prepare for flying with a large dog in cabin?

There are many things you can do to help prepare for flying with a large dog cabin. Remember, these airlines, whether commercial or not, will only allow well-behaved dogs on flights. You don’t want to risk being banned from flying with your dog, or having him shipped in the cargo area. Here are a few tips:

1. Get your dog used to it’s travel carrier.

If your dog will need to stay in its travel carrier during the flight, it’s important that you spend some time to get him used to it.

When first introducing your dog to its carrier, take it slow. Lure your dog into their carrier with plenty of treats, and let him/her play and sleep in there as much as possible. You want to avoid forcing your dog into the carrier as this may stress him or her out and may cause a negative association to the carrier. 

2. Train your dog to stay calm.

Your dog will need to stay calm on the flight otherwise they risk being sent into the cargo area of the plane. Being obedient to orders is a requirement when flying with dogs.

3. Exhaust your dog before the flight.

Try to exhaust your dog a little by increasing the level of activity before your trip. A sleepy animal will be less prone to getting stressed out on the flight, and will likely be better behaved on the flight. 

4. Limit access to food and water before the flight.

Limit your dog’s access to food. Therefore, it’ll be less likely that they will need to ‘defecate or urinate’ on the flight.

Additionally, some animals may experience motion sickness if they eat just before a flight. If you are flying in the morning, then feed them the night before.

Air Canada suggest feeding your dog four to six hours prior to departure, as a full stomach may cause discomfort during travel. 

5. Familiarise yourself with the airport that you are departing from and arriving to.

Most airports will have a dedicated area for pets and service animals to rest. It is actually a legal requirement that all U.S. airports have pet-relief areas available for working animals and pets to rest. Take some photos of the airport maps, so you don’t have to wander around on the day trying to find a resting place.

Bottom Line.

Unfortunately flying with large dogs in cabin is rather tricky, as most commercial airlines will only allow small and light dogs in cabin. However, there are some semi-private airlines that will allow flying with a large dog in cabin. This of course will cost you a little more, but it may be worth it for stress-free travel.

Related posts: Flying Dogs in Cargo: Will my dog be safe? 15 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In-Cabin Flying with an Anxious Dog? [15 Top Tips!] 21 Dog Breeds That Can Fly in Cabin Dog Sedatives for Flying: Should I use them?

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Flying With Your Pet? It Just Got a Lot More Difficult.

A recent C.D.C. rabies rule, pricey pet ‘tickets’ and limits on animals in airline cabins are making traveling with a pet more complicated.

By Debra Kamin

Vivian Harvey, 81, goes to Guatemala every winter, where she spends five months tutoring children. And for 11 years, she has brought her dachshund, Sadie, along for the trip.

But this year, because of a new ruling from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Sadie can’t come. A ban on the import of dogs into the United States from 113 countries has forced Ms. Harvey, who lives in Columbus, Ohio, to rework her plans. The ban applies to foreign dogs as well as those traveling with American owners and re-entering the country after a trip abroad.

As a result, Ms. Harvey is now heading to Guatemala for only a quick two-week trip, while Sadie stays behind with a sitter.

The ban, which went into full effect Oct. 14, is intended to prevent animals at high risk of rabies from entering the country. It comes, the federal agency says, after the pandemic surge in dog adoptions led to a spike in falsified health documents from international pet importers.

The C.D.C.’s ruling has arrived at a time when pet owners are already navigating new restrictions on pet travel in the airplane cabin, reduced options for shipping pets as cargo, and cascades of flight cancellations and scheduling shifts. If the pandemic, with its vaccine mandates and testing requirements, has made air travel difficult for humans, it’s made it infinitely tougher for our furry friends.

The C.D.C. says it has intervened in more than 450 dog importations with falsified or incomplete rabies vaccination certificates in 2020, and it has begun issuing a small number of permits to dogs coming to the United States from high-risk countries, like Guatemala, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates, among other places. But requirements are steep: The permits demand microchipping, a valid rabies vaccination certificate and blood work from an approved serology laboratory.

Dogs must also be at least six months old, and rabies serologic titers must be drawn at least 30 days after rabies vaccination and 90 days before entry into the United States. And after Jan. 7, the C.D.C. will also reduce the number of ports where dogs from countries on the C.D.C.’s list can enter the United States, to three from 18: John F. Kennedy International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Before the C.D.C.’s ban, the United States “was probably the most lax country to send a pet into,” said Mandy O’Connell, regional director for North America for the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association .

“The importation of even one rabid dog is dangerous because rabies is nearly always fatal in people and animals once symptoms appear,” said Emily Pieracci, a veterinary medical officer with the C.D.C., in an email.

But Lori Kalef, the director of programs for SPCA International , said that the ban, no matter how well-intentioned, may actually exacerbate the global incidence of rabies in dogs. Many places that could once find homes in the United States for abandoned dogs are now finding that their own resources for neutering and vaccination are overstretched.

Operation Baghdad Pups , an SPCA International Program that helps U.S. service members reunite with animals they adopt on deployment, currently has close to 30 military personnel waiting to reconnect with a pet.

Sgt. John Weldon is one of them. While on deployment in Syria earlier this year, the infantryman was given an abandoned week-old puppy. He named the pup Sully, went online to learn how to make puppy formula and nursed him to health. In July, when the C.D.C. announced the ban and Sergeant Weldon, who is now based at California’s Camp Pendleton, realized he wouldn’t be able to bring Sully home, he put the dog on a convoy headed for Iraq. Three months later, the dog is still there.

“The entire time I was in Syria with him, he never left my side,” Sergeant Weldon said. “I just want to get him home.”

Pricey pet fares, the dreaded cargo hold and limits on service animals

Even before U.S. borders were closed to many pet owners during the pandemic, flying with an animal had become significantly more complicated.

Last December, the Department of Transportation clamped down on service animals on airplanes. For years, passengers had been able to bring animals in the cabin with them if they had a note from a licensed medical professional deeming the pet to be an emotional support animal . The December ruling — issued after passengers had brought pigs, peacocks and even a kangaroo on board — limits service animals to trained dogs only. Several airlines, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Alaska Air, announced shortly after that they would no longer accept emotional support animals, including dogs, on board.

Animals without service dog documentation must either travel in a pet carrier that fits under the seat, or in the cargo hold.

And the coronavirus has thrown another wrench into the works: Multiple airlines, struggling to survive as flights were canceled and employee ranks slashed, announced they would no longer take pets in the cargo hold at all. Today, only American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines accept dogs in the hold, and not on every flight — most aircraft can only accommodate a 27-inch crate, making options for those with larger-breed dogs even more limited.

Some domestic airlines have increased fees for flying with pets in the cabin, as well, to as much as $500. “You really want to read into the restrictions of your airline and make sure that you can afford it, said Molly Fergus, the general manager of the travel advice site TripSavvy . “In some cases, you might end up paying more than your own ticket for your pet.”

There are other changes: Swiss Air has a new rule on its website that the airline now charges a $125 transfer surcharge for pets flying through Frankfurt, Vienna, Munich, Zurich and Geneva; Air France says the airline now allows pets in the hold on flights to and from Paris airports only , except on flights between Moscow and Paris, where they can only be in the cabin; and KLM’s website spells out a rule that says if animals are flying in the hold and transiting via Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, their layover must be three hours or less.

Rachel Brathen, an author and yoga teacher who lives in Aruba, learned the last rule the hard way. In August, she was returning from visiting family in Sweden with her Italian greyhound, Ringo, who — like many of us — gained some weight over the pandemic. Ringo was now too heavy to fly in the cabin, so Ms. Brathen booked him in the hold. But two days before her flight, Ringo’s passage was canceled. The reason? His layover at Schiphol was 15 minutes too long, according to the new rule.

She ended up leaving him in Sweden with her brother, and plans to reunite this winter.

“There wasn’t a clear explanation, and if they had shared that in the beginning, we never would have taken him on the trip,” Ms. Brathen said.

Jeni Redmon, who helps coordinate pet transportation for private clients, said that even before the pandemic, many airlines were frustrated with the labor required to transport pets.

“Handling pets is difficult,” she said. “I think some of these services were on the way out prior to Covid. This was just the kick in the pants that the airlines needed.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places list .

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How to protect your pet during an in-flight emergency

Dogs and cats are not covered by standard safety rules on a plane.

A recent spate of in-flight emergencies — severe turbulence , a burning plane , a blown-out door panel — has underscored the importance of aviation safety protocols. The measures are clear, comprehensive and potentially lifesaving if you’re a human.

But the protocols are murkier for cabin pets and service animals.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s rules cover lifesaving gear and procedures designed for people, including seat belts, oxygen masks and life vests. During an emergency evacuation, flight attendants order passengers to leave all hand baggage behind; there is no asterisk for carriers containing pets.

Passengers with cabin pets or service animals hope to never find themselves in such a dire situation. Even so, Deborah Mandell , a professor of clinical emergency and critical care at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine, encourages travelers to have a plan of action.

“Being prepared and thinking about all these things is really important,” said Mandell, who is also an American Red Cross pet care adviser.

Secure your pet during turbulence

Airlines require cabin pets to remain in their kennels at all times, though some carriers, such as Delta, allow passengers to hold their enclosed pet on their lap when the plane is not taking off, taxiing or landing. If the air turns choppy, owners should tuck the kennel under their seat — the safest spot for the animal and, by extension, any nearby passengers.

Liz Rozanski , a critical care veterinarian at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, recommends traveling with a hard-shell pet case rather than a soft-sided bag. “The stiffer ones are more like a child’s seat,” she said. A hard case can also better repel rolling objects, such as water bottles.

Inside the enclosure, soft bedding will provide protective padding. Mandell suggests removing any objects that could turn into projectiles, such as toys or food.

The rules are different for service dogs, which are allowed to sit in the open, by their owner’s feet or on their lap. If you have a carrier, place your service dog inside as soon as the pilot switches on the seat-belt sign. If you don’t have one, Mandell said, seat the dog on the floor, cradle it between your legs, and wrap your arms around its chest in a safe and comforting hug, “as long as you’re not putting yourself at risk.”

Use a spare oxygen mask

Each airplane seat is equipped with an oxygen mask, plus extras intended for lap babies. Airlines do not specify whether passengers can use a spare mask for their pet, but it has happened before. In 2018, JetBlue flight attendants deployed an oxygen mask to help a French bulldog named Darcy that was struggling to breathe.

Similar to the rule for adults traveling with children, passengers should put on their mask first, then help their pet. Keep in mind that masking an animal may require some finessing, because the gear is not made for canine or feline faces. Mandell said the equipment might be a trickier fit for larger breeds, such as a German shepherd or Great Pyrenees.

“ Because of all the different conformations of dog heads, it may or may not stay on with just the elastic,” she said. “So you may just have to hold it.”

Based on her experience in animal hospitals, Mandell said some pets might object to having their snouts covered with a foreign object. The owner needs to position the cup so that the pet can inhale the oxygen. Don’t press it too tightly against their nose, which can impede their intake.

If a spare mask is not available, the passenger and pet would need to share. Rozanski said to trade off air every 15 seconds or so.

BYO life vest

By law, planes flying over or near large bodies of water must carry life vests for each passenger, including a few models for infants. Pets are not part of that equation, but Mandell said you can bring your own pet life jacket.

The gear might make sense if your trip includes family swims in the vacation rental pool or boat rides in the Pacific Ocean. It’s probably excessive if you’re carrying it solely for the plane ride. Fortunately, emergency water landings by commercial aircraft are very rare.

Evacuating with your pet

In the event of an evacuation, flight crew members will instruct passengers to proceed to the emergency exits and leave all carry-on items behind. Passengers must be able to deplane within 90 seconds, according to the FAA. Searching for or shouldering a bag can slow the process; luggage can also puncture the inflatable slide.

Pet carriers, which are considered carry-ons, are no exception.

Airlines such as Southwest say passengers should remove the dog or cat from its case and hold it in their arms. (Flight attendants will provide real-time guidance, since each crisis is unique.) Animal experts, however, said a freed pet comes with risks. The pet can become spooked and escape in the plane, for example, or its claws can pierce the slide.

Rozanski suggests exiting with the pet inside its carrier and dealing with the consequences later. “ If the plane is burning up, I would take the carrier with me,” she said. “If somebody says no, I would jump anyway.” Just be aware that ignoring or defying a flight attendant’s orders could be classified as unruly behavior.

For sliding down with a larger dog, Mandell said, try to hold the animal on your lap facing out, with its back to your chest and its feet up. That way, its nails won’t rip the material.

Service animals, meanwhile, are trained for emergency situations, Rozanski noted, citing the guide dogs that led their owners out of the World Trade Center to safety on Sept. 11, 2001.

Service dogs “are not going to have a problem,” she said, “because they are going to follow instructions.”

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.

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Carriage of Pets

Travelling with pets.

Guidelines for carrying pets on domestic and international flights

Read below to learn all about our policies when travelling with your pet on a domestic or international flight.

How to make a booking for your pet?

• Bring your pet to the check-in counter with the required travel case and paperwork to purchase a ticket.
• You can also book your pet at our airline or city ticketing offices.

Please book the flight at least 72 hours before departure for the carriage of pets in the cabin. We do not allow multi-city bookings when travelling with a pet.

Charges when travelling with pets

• Standard excess baggage charges by weight/piece will be applied, regardless of whether the free baggage allowance is utilised. The carriage of pets, including the weight of containers or pet carriers, will not be included in the free baggage allowance.
• Weight of your pet
• The weight of the container, i.e., the kennel, cage, or bag.
• Other belongings of the pet, for instance, food.

Things to know when travelling with your pet

• We welcome domesticated dogs and cats on our flights in the passenger cabin or the aircraft hold as baggage (cargo compartment), subject to approvals by Air India.
• Your pet must be at least eight weeks old to travel in the cabin and 3 months or older to travel in the cargo hold.
• We do not allow pregnant pets to travel with us to ensure their safety. Also, do inform us if your pet has given birth in the last 48 hours.
• We allow all breeds of dogs and cats to fly in the cabin. However, certain breeds, such as snub-nosed or flat-faced pets, may be at risk if carried in the cargo compartment. Therefore, they are not permitted to fly in the cargo compartment. If you plan to take these at-risk breeds in the cabin, we strongly recommend you seek advice from your vet. Please note that we shall not be liable for any issues that may arise in this regard.
• They can travel in the cabin if the combined weight of the pet and their container is under 7 kg/ 15 lb.
• They can travel in the checked-in baggage hold (cargo compartment) if the combined weight of the pet and container is over 7 kg/ 15 lb but under 32 kg/ 70 lb.
• If the combined weight of the pet and the container is over 32 kg/ 70 lb, they must be carried as cargo.
• The pet needs to be in a soft, ventilated bag or kennel not exceeding 46 cm/ 18 in x 46 cm/ 18 in x 30 cm/ 12 in. 
• As per DGCA guidelines, we allow only two pets in the cabin per flight. Additionally, each pet must be accompanied by a passenger.
• For safety reasons, label each pet's kennel, bag, or cage with its name and place an extra absorbent mat at the base. Please carry extra absorbent mats so the pet can relieve itself during the journey.
• It may cause hinderance with the health assessment that is performed before departure to ensure your pet is fit to travel. 
• In accordance with the IATA standards, sedating or tranquilising your pet may be dangerous to their health due to pressure difference. 
• Please be aware that no food items are allowed inside the container.
• Unaccompanied minors are not allowed to travel with a pet.
• If you are travelling with an infant or need wheelchair assistance, we recommend that you do not travel with your pet in the cabin to ensure safety of all onboard the flight. Your pet can travel in the cargo hold.

Documents required

• You must carry validated vaccination and health certificates (duly signed and stamped) from the sanitation department advising that the animal is in good health at most 72 hours before the date of travel. 
• You need to have a certificate that confirms that the animal has been inoculated for rabies by a registered veterinarian. 
• Please download and complete the indemnity form . For direct flights, fill out and carry two copies of the indemnity form. 
• Please bring the original documents along with the photocopies to be submitted at the time of check-in at airports.

In addition to the above-mentioned documents, you will also need the following if you are traveling internationally with your pet:

• You must hold entry permits and other documents, as required by the countries of entry or transit. 
• For more details, please visit AQCS , US CDC , and IATA Program & Policy .

At the airport with your pet

• You must report at least three hours prior to departure of your flight when travelling with a pet to be able to complete all travel formalities.
• You will be allowed to check-in and board on priority if you are travelling with a pet.

Seat Assignment

• If you are travelling with a pet, you will be assigned a seat in the last row of the booked cabin class.
• If you are travelling with a pet on a single cabin configuration (all-economy flight), one passenger and their accompanying pet will be assigned the last row, and the other will be at least five rows apart.
• Your pet will not be allowed to occupy a passenger seat, even in case the adjoining seat is unoccupied. 
• Additionally, you will not be allowed to carry your pet in your hand or lap. 
• Emergency exit rows are not assigned to the passenger and their accompanying pet.  
• Please note that Air India is solely responsible for assigning a seat.

Additional guidelines for carrying pets on international flights

For destination-specific regulations and documents required for pet travel, please refer to IATA Travel Centre .

• The owner must ensure their pets meet all quarantine requirements. Your pet may be subjected to quarantine at the destination. The quarantine period may vary and would be at the discretion of the veterinary authorities in the destination country.
• We are not responsible if your pets are refused entry into or passage through any country or territory.
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom

For more information, please reach out to our  customer support executive  or head to our airport or city  ticketing office . 

Country specific guidelines

There may be additional guidelines for the travel of pets based on the country they are arriving.

Import and export of pets to or from India

If you intend to import or export your pet to/from India:

• You will need a ‘No Objection Certificate’ or ’Pre-import Clearance’ from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS). Please click here for more information and to download the required certificates and clearance forms.  

You can import or export your pet only from the airport mentioned in your permit. For instance, if the AQCS office in Delhi granted you pet import permission, your pet can depart or arrive only at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi.

• To ensure the safety and health of your pet, they will only be accepted when they are correctly yet comfortably kept in their isolated bag, kennel, or cage.
• Your pet must have valid documentation from its country of origin certifying that it is free from diseases like rabies, distemper, and leptospirosis.

We understand that this may be a lot of paperwork. But take it as our commitment to the well-being of your furry companion.

Learn more about Oman’s guidelines for the carriage of pets.

Middle East and Gulf countries

• For flights transiting through the Middle East, birds cannot be carried with you on the flight or in the checked-in baggage hold.
• The carriage of pet animals into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by air follows the terms and conditions outlined in the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LARS).

Booking your pet on a connecting flight

We allow pets on direct, transit, and connecting flights, provided the connecting flights are between Air India flights only (AI - AI) and not with other airlines. This applies to routes where pets are currently accepted.

Charges applicable

• Standard excess baggage charges by weight/piece will be applied for each segment of your journey, regardless of whether the free baggage allowance is utilised. 
• You will be required to pay at your origin for all segments of your trip.

For connecting flights, please carry two copies of the indemnity form for each segment of your journey, i.e., a total of four indemnity forms.

Travel checklist for your pet

Before you travel with your cat or dog, make sure:

• You’ve checked all entry and exit regulations for the countries you’re flying to and from. Do note that every country has its own set of requirements when it comes to travelling with animals.
• You have all the official documents, vet examinations and treatments for your pet to travel.
• You’ve at least 72 hours in hand to make the booking for the pet.
• You’ve asked your vet about any medication your pet may need for the journey.
• You have a leash and a suitable harness or collar available.
• You have dry pet food in a sealed container in your cabin baggage.
• You bring all the original documents for your pet for verification.
• Your pet is familiar with their travel bag or kennel.

Pets can get anxious in unfamiliar surroundings. However, some measures can be taken to help them relax. We suggest you undertake the following actions:

• A few weeks before departure, acclimatise your pet to the container it will be travelling in. Periodically place your pet within the container and keep it closed for about two hours before giving it a treat.
• Place a familiar blanket and absorbent material on the container floor.
• On the day of departure, provide your pet with a light meal and a little water for two hours before placing it in the container.
• Walk your pet before proceeding to the airport.
• Always remove your pet’s leash before placing it in the container.
• Do not administer any form of sedatives or tranquillisers to your pet before the flight.

Service animal

Guide dogs, service animals, or psychiatric service animals trained to assist passengers with special needs may travel free of charge provided they meet all requirements and regulations of the individual country. For more information, please read our guidelines on flying with a service dog .

United States (US)

Air India allows service dogs and psychiatric service dogs on our direct flights to or from the US.

•  An official service animal is a dog that has received training to perform tasks that benefit a qualified individual with a disability, including physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disabilities. Find out more about travelling with a service dog.
• The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a temporary suspension of dog imports, including service dogs, travelling to the US from countries considered high-risk countries. Learn more about US CDC suspension for high-risk countries .

Have a question?

Confused about any of the guidelines related to the carriage of pets? Have them clarified by going through our frequently asked questions .

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Traveling with pets on Air France

Do you love your pet ? So do we ! Air France does everything to ensure your pet's journey goes as smoothly as yours.  Transport rules, prohibited animals, rates...Find all the information you need to prepare for your trip.

Important! If your cat or dog weighs between 8kg / 17.64 lb. and 75 kg / 165.35 lb. with its kennel, it must travel in the hold. Since traveling with dogs or cats in the hold can be limited or prohibited on certain types of aircraft, you must submit a request at least 48 hours before your departure .

Traveling with dogs, cats, and other pets

Our answers to your questions.

• Your animal must have all required vaccines in order to be permitted on board.
• Any dog or cat traveling within the European Union must be identified with an electronic microchip. Your pet must also have a European passport. Provided and completed by an authorized veterinarian, this passport identifies your animal and certifies that it has been vaccinated.
• We recommend that you reach out to the embassy of your destination country. For example, Ireland, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Malta have additional health requirements. 
• For your travels outside of the European Union, please inquire about the current regulations for each country of origin, destination, and any country you will be connecting through (vaccinations, quarantine, etc.).

Please note : Air France declines all responsibility for costs incurred (booking change fees, hotel stays, kennel fees, etc.). in the case of:

• Your pet has been refused on board due to   non-compliance with our travel conditions .
• Your pet has been refused upon arrival due to non-compliance with the current regulations in your destination country.

You can purchase a pet carrier for the  cabin or a kennel for the hold on the Air France  Shopping website. Delivery is available in the following countries: Algeria, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Metropolitan France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Morocco, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, United Kingdom, United States. As a Flying Blue member, you earn Miles with every purchase. You can even pay with your Miles !

Go to the Air France Shopping website

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Unclear guidelines force family to travel without service dog

They couldn’t get confirmation in advance that the dog would be allowed on the plane.

Social Sharing

A Vancouver Island woman says her family recently had to travel without her son's certified service dog because she could not get a straight answer on whether WestJet would let the dog on the plane. 

Michael Toulmin, 8, is autistic and gets overwhelmed by crowds, noise, bright lights, and a change in location or routine. 

His dog Thor helps him calm down and regulate his behaviour. 

But his parents say they had no choice but to leave the dog at home when they went on a family trip to Mexico earlier this year, flying with WestJet.  

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WestJet allows service dogs for persons with disabilities that have been trained as service dogs. 

The airline asks that customers call at least 48 hours before their flight to arrange access for the dog, and says they should be prepared to provide documentation as well as the dog's breed and size so that appropriate floor space can be provided. 

If a dog doesn't fit at its owner's feet, it may need an extra seat. 

For flights within Canada, that seat is free. For international flights, customers may be charged. 

Michael's father, William Toulmin, said they were aware that Thor, a German shepherd, would need extra room, and they were prepared to pay if needed. 

But when his wife, Michelle Andrews, phoned several weeks ahead to make arrangements, she said all she was told was that the dog was too big and that they would have to leave the decision to the discretion of the check-in or gate agents at the airport. 

The family lives in Port Renfrew, B.C., a small community 79 kilometres from Victoria on the southwest coast of Vancouver Island.

To get to Vancouver International Airport for their flight, they needed to drive for approximately two hours, then take a 90-minute ferry ride, then drive for about another 30 minutes. 

Because they didn't want to risk travelling all that way and then being told they couldn't get their dog on the flight, they decided to leave Thor at home. 

"It was a really, really, hard decision for us to make," said Andrews, with tears in her voice. 

She said Michael had a hard time understanding why his companion couldn't come with them — and he had a hard time dealing with the anxiety he felt while on the trip. 

It was the first vacation the family had ever taken outside of Canada and the United States, but Andrews said it didn't feel like a vacation. 

"It was a very difficult trip," she said, "because we didn't have the tools that we usually have to make things enjoyable for my son."

She said her frustration would have been eased if she had just gotten a clear answer about whether the dog would be accepted on the flight or if the airline's website had laid out the size restrictions so she could have known in advance.

In an emailed response to CBC News, WestJet spokesperson Julia Brunet wrote: "We apologize for the confusion. These reservations should be confirmed in advance of travel to ensure a seamless travel journey."

She also asked for further information so the airline could try to understand why the confusion occurred. 

Lack of clarity in guidelines 

Meredith Areskoug, who works for Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS), a B.C.-based organization which trains and provides service dogs for people with disabilities, said overall, Canadian airlines are being increasingly accommodating when it comes to service dogs — but there are still challenges. 

When an additional seat is needed to ensure floor space for the dog, Canadian airlines are required to provide it free of charge for domestic flights but can charge for international flights. 

While she's heard instances of airlines waiving the fees on international flights, she's also heard of them charging on domestic flights.

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There can also be discrepancies in how accommodation is provided, because of the definition of service dog. 

According to Canadian law , airlines must accommodate a service dog that has been "individually trained by an organization or person specializing in service dog training to perform a task to assist the person with a disability with a need related to their disability."

In British Columbia, a dog can be certified as a service dog even if it has been trained by its owner, as long as it passes a standardized test showing it can behave in public and obey instructions.

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Areskoug said it can all make travel even more challenging than it already is for people with disabilities. 

"It's very confusing. It's very difficult, and it's very stressful."

She recommends people do their homework and plan ahead. 

As for the Port Renfrew family? 

William Toulmin agrees. He said the earlier you do your homework and approach the airline, the more time you'll have to advocate if you hit barriers. 

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