Everything You Need to Know About Airline-Approved Pet Carriers
Traveling with your furry companion by air can be stressful, but with the right airline-approved pet carrier, the process goes much more smoothly. Let’s take a look at the key considerations for choosing a carrier that meets size restrictions and ensures your pet’s comfort and safety during the flight.
Checking the Size Limits
The first thing you’ll want to do is check the size limits for carriers with the specific airline you’re flying. Most major carriers in the US allow hard-sided or soft-sided carriers that are no larger than maximum dimensions of 18x14x8 inches. However, some budget airlines have even smaller limits, so it’s crucial to verify requirements ahead of time.
From my experience booking multiple flights with pets, I’ve found it’s best to aim for a carrier that’s on the smaller side of major airline limits rather than maxing it out. This gives your pet more wiggle room and leaves space underneath for airflow on long flights. It also prevents potential issues if the airline has smaller-than-usual cargo bins on a particular aircraft.
Choosing a Carrier Type
There are pros and cons to consider with hard-sided versus soft-sided carriers. Hard carriers provide greater structural support and safety during handling. However, they can feel more confining for pets. Soft carriers are cozier but risk collapse or damage if mishandled by baggage handlers.
For most cats and small dogs, I recommend a high-quality soft-sided carrier that’s reinforced with a rigid plastic base, sides, and door. This offers cushioning without sacrificing durability. Larger or anxious dogs may feel more secure in a sturdy hard-sided kennel.
Other Important Features
When shopping for the right carrier, look for these key components:
- Ventilation: Holes or mesh provide adequate airflow to prevent overheating. Covered sides protect from drafts.
- Door fasteners: Secure zippers or latches prevent accidental opening during turbulence.
- Comfort: Padded walls and fold-out floor pads allow pets to sit, stand, and lie down comfortably.
- Identification: Name tags or ID windows let airline staff easily identify your pet carrier.
- Wheels/handle: Rolling carriers or backpack carriers make maneuvering through airports a breeze.
Carriers with all these features provide maximum assurance that your pet will travel safely and contentedly under the plane.
Getting Comfortable Before Takeoff
Once you’ve got the right carrier, it’s important to desensitize your pet to it in the weeks leading up to your travel date. Let them explore it for short periods indoors with treats, then work up to longer intervals and car rides. On the day of the flight, give them a tasty chew toy or snuggle toy to distract them inside.
If your pet tends to get anxious, ask your vet about calming supplements that are safe for air travel. Melatonin or pheromone diffusers can also help relax dogs and cats. The goal is to have them associate the carrier with positive experiences rather than stress.
From my experience, the happier your pet feels in the carrier, the smoother the whole traveling process will go. Taking time for training and acclimation can make all the difference to their comfort level on the big day.
Following Proper Check-In Procedures
On the day of your flight, arrive extra early for check-in to allow time for any issues. Most airlines require you to check your carrier at the ticket counter rather than curbside for liability reasons. You’ll need to present the carrier unoccupied for a visual inspection. Staff may want to see that identification tags are securely attached.
Once approved, you’ll take the carrier to the pet area to load your furry friend in. Make sure to remove excess food, water, and toys beforehand per airline rules. My cats always get nervous at this point, so I try to distract them with pets or treats as we wait to check them into the hold. Double check your pet’s health certificate or vaccinations are in order as well if traveling internationally.
With some patience and preparation, the check-in process for an anxious pet usually goes smoothly. But it never hurts to arrive early, anticipating any issues so you have time to resolve them without facing delays. This “kind of” stressful experience can go a lot better having that buffer of extra time.
Preparing for Your Pet’s Arrival
Once your furball has winged their way to your destination airport, airport staff will transport them to the pet holding area. Here are some tips for a smooth reunion:
- Collect your pet promptly after landing so they aren’t confined too long.
- Bring their leash, food, water, supplies to the baggage claim area ahead of time.
- Have treats and toys to greet them with familiar scents and keep them occupied briefly if the carrier needs inspection.
- Remain calm and cheerful rather than anxious yourself to set their mood.
- After some readjustment time, watch for signs of stress like hiding, shaking, or acting withdrawn – your vet can advise supportive care.
Some dogs and cats bounce right back after flying, while others may need extra cuddles, playtime, or even a few days to unwind. The smoothest process starts with coming prepared to take good care of them on arrival.
Alternative Travel Options
For nervous flyers or brachycephalic breeds prone to respiratory issues, driving may be preferable to flying if you have the time and flexibility. A rental car allows you to break up a long trip with rest stops tailored to your pet’s needs.
You could also consider hiring pet transport services who carry animals commercially. This ensures your pet has their own kennel and avoids airline chaos. However, it does come at a higher cost than flying with most carriers.
So in summary, evaluate what option aligns best with your schedule, budget, and individual pet’s temperament. With preparation and care, flying or driving can both work well depending on circumstances.
Final Thoughts
Traveling by air with your pet takes forethought and effort, but it’s definitely possible if you put in the preparation time. Choosing the right approved carrier is the foundation. From there, training your pet to feel comfortable in it and following airline procedures will help the process go as smoothly as it can.
Be proactive, stay positive, and don’t stress if minor issues arise. With patience and using the techniques outlined here, you and your furry companion can hopefully arrive at your destination feeling relaxed and ready to enjoy your trip together!
I hope this guide gave you the insight you needed to satisfy all your pet travel questions. Let me know if any other parts of the process need further explanation. Safe and happy travels to you and your pet!
Airline Approved Pet Carrier Sizes
| Airline | Maximum Length | Maximum Width | Maximum Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 23 inches | 10 inches | 10 inches |
| Delta | 18 inches | 14 inches | 9 inches |
| United | 21 inches | 13 inches | 9 inches |
| Southwest | 24 inches | 10 inches | 16 inches |
| Alaska Airlines | 22 inches | 14 inches | 10 inches |
FAQ
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What size pet carrier is permitted on airplanes?
Most airlines allow pet carriers that are no more than approximately 18 inches long by 10-12 inches wide by 7-9 inches tall. However, it’s best to check the exact policies for your specific airline.
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Can I bring a larger carrier if my pet is bigger?
Even if your pet is on the large side, airlines usually won’t allow carriers beyond the common size limitations. At the same time, some airlines may make exceptions on a case-by-case basis for unusually big pets. Your best bet is to contact the airline ahead of time.
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Do soft-sided carriers have different size rules?
Generally, the maximum dimensions are nearly the same for both hard-sided and soft-carriers. Nevertheless, soft carriers are sometimes allowed to be an inch or two bigger on one or two dimensions. But it truly depends on the airline.
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What if my pet needs more space?
If your pet seems like it may be uncomfortable in the standard size, you could try bringing its kennel or crate to check if it fits under the seat. On the other hand, many pets do fine as long as the carrier is not overcrowded.
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How will they check the size?
flight attendants often use measuring tapes to double check carrier dimensions match the policies. They need to make sure pets stay in their allotted underneath-seat spaces for safety. Some experts recommend always having your vet verify your pet carrier size meets airline rules to avoid problems on travel days.
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What happens if it’s too big?
If the carrier exceeds size limits, the airline may not let you board with the pet. At best, they’d make you check the carrier with the luggage instead of keeping it in the cabin – but that removes a lot of the comfort for the animal. It’s basically not worth gambling with an oversized carrier.
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Can’t they make an exception?
You can politely ask flight staff if there’s any leeway, and sometimes they’ll cut people slack – particularly for very short domestic trips where the pet is well-behaved. However, do not count on exceptions being granted, as safety regulations exist for good reason. It might be safer to get a carrier that complies with policies from the start.
On the other hand, ensuring your pet’s comfort is important too. But is it worth risking not being able to bring them in the cabin if the carrier is too large? Perhaps the best solution is finding one that provides enough space within airline size limits. You may also want to ask your vet for advice, as animal professionals could offer guidance on whether a slightly smaller carrier is actually okay for your pet’s needs. Airlines err on the side of caution, and understanding those safety-based perspectives helps too. At the end of the day, clear communication and planning ahead seems like the approach with the best chances of smooth sailing.