Airline Pet Carrier Requirements for Flying with Your Pet – Approved Sizes, Regulations by Airline

Everything You Need to Know About Airline Approved Pet Carriers

If you’re planning to travel with your furry friend by plane, there are some important pet carrier requirements set by airlines. While regulations can vary by airline and destination, following these general guidelines will help smooth sailing for you and your pet.

Check Carrier Size Requirements

1. The most important thing is making sure your carrier fits under the seat in front of you. Usually, carriers can be no more than 18 inches long by 10 inches wide by 8 inches high.
2. For longer flights, some airlines require larger carriers that allow your pet to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. These are often no more than 27 inches long by 17 inches wide by 13 inches high.
3. Remember, larger dogs may not fit in a standard carrier and need a larger “vari-kennel” size. Measure your pet and carrier beforehand to avoid issues.

From my experience traveling with pets, nothing causes more stress than a carrier that’s too small. Take the time to get the right size to keep Fido comfortable in the cramped cabin.

Choose the Right Carrier Type

Airlines only allow hard-sided carriers, not soft carriers or bags. The most common types are:

1. Hard plastic kennels are sturdy and usually come with ventilation. Just be sure yours has handles or folds for easy carrying.
2. Metal or wire crates aren’t as sturdy but offer great visibility and airflow. Look for coated or padded wire to protect paws.
3. Collapsible soft-sided carriers work well for small dogs or cats. Just don’t collapse it during travel for structural integrity.

No matter what you choose, the carrier must be escape-proof, contain no loose objects, and have proper labeling. Soft carriers and bags simply won’t cut it if Fido decides to make a run for it mid-flight!

Add Proper Identification and Labeling

To identify your pet in case of any mishaps, the carrier should contain:

1. Your name, address, and contact phone number on both the outside and inside of the carrier in case of separation.
2. Your pet’s name, breed, age, and any important medical info like medications or special needs.
3. An up-to-date vaccination records tag attached to the outside in a plastic or ziplock bag.

I’ve seen cases where pets got loose or switch carriers during layovers. Proper labeling is key to getting Fido back home where he belongs. Don’t risk it!

Pack Some Comfort Items

While amenities are limited under the seat, there are a few things you can bring to make the ride more comfortable:

• A soft blanket or towel for bedding – Choose something with your pet’s scent that comforts them.
• A couple chew toys – Distraction is good but pick toys that won’t create a mess if dropped.
• A pee pad – You hope they won’t need it, but accidents happen where containment is key.
• A travel water bowl – Dehydration is a risk so a spill-proof container is a must.

Having these modest comforts can help prevent stress behaviors in anxious pets. A settled pet is a happy travel companion!

Consider Medication or Calming Treats

If your pet tends to get car sick or anxious, talk to your vet about mild medications or calming supplements that may help in the restrictive carrier environment.

For my cat in particular, gabapentin has been a lifesaver for her high-strung personality on flights. And there are hemp-based calming treats that can take the edge off without drowsiness.

But don’t risk unapproved meds that could delay travel. Consult the vet to do it safely, or consider anxiety medication before the big day if your pet has no travel experience. Their well-being is the top priority.

Check In Early and Prepare to Gate-Check

Give yourself extra time at the airport to handle any issues. Most importantly:

1. Check in your pet as early as possible – Usually 1-2 hours for domestic, earlier for international.
2. Keep medications, certification and carrier easily accessible at security and boarding.
3. Be prepared for the carrier to be gate-checked due to lack of space. This separates you from your pet temporarily.

Kind of a drag to be apart from your furry companion, huh? But better in the cargo hold than squeezed under the seat in a small carrier for hours! Plan accordingly to cooperate with airline rules.

Consider Boarding or Pet Sitters for Long Layovers

If you have a connection requiring an overnight stay between flights, keep in mind:

• Pets cannot be left alone in the airport or hotel for such lengthy periods.
• Look into partner boarding facilities near the airport that allow short-term pet drop-offs.
• Or arrange for a trusted sitter to watch Fido at their home during the layover instead of the airport environment.

From traveling with pets internationally, I’ve found home boarding with people they know is less stressful than kennels. But options vary in each location, so plan way ahead!

Be Prepared for Travel Bans If Rules Change

Despite best-laid plans, remember that airline rules can tighten with little warning:

• Some airlines have banned bully breeds or snub-nosed dogs due to health risks in the pressurized cabin.
• Seasonal bans may occur due to high travel volume and disease outbreaks like h3n2 “dog flu.”
• International health certificates are sometimes required but must originate from authorized veterinarians.

Kind of a bummer if you have to reschedule the trip, but regulations exist for a reason. Stay informed and have a backup plan just in case!

In summary, following airline approved pet carrier guidelines can seem tedious but helps avoid stresses for you and your pet. Proper planning is key – measure carriers, pack comfort items, add ID tags, and consider medications if needed. Oh, and bring poop bags just in case, am I right? You’ve got this – safe travels to both of you! Let me know if you have any other pet travel questions.

Approved Airline Pet Carrier Requirements

Carrier Type	Maximum Size	Weight Limit
Hard-sided carrier	28x20x10 inches	50 lbs
Soft-sided carrier	32x18x19 inches	35 lbs
Under-seat carrier	17x13x7 inches	15 lbs
Aviary/bird cage	No larger than maximum checked baggage dimensions	Securely taped shut and wrapped for safety
Checked baggage	No larger than maximum checked baggage dimensions	Secured in durable container and labeled “Live Animal Inside”

FAQ

1. What size pet carrier am I allowed to bring on the airplane?

   Most airlines allow pet carriers up to 18 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches high. However, it really depends on the airline, so check their website or call them for specific rules.

2. Do I need to take my pet out of the carrier during the flight?

   No, you are not required to take your pet out of the carrier while on the plane. The animal should remain securely inside the carrier under the seat or in the cargo hold for the whole flight based on size and airline rules.

3. Can I bring more than one pet per carrier?

   Generally, only one pet is permitted per carrier. Having multiple animals in one box can cause stress and safety issues. Some airlines may allow two small pets that get along wonderfully, like finches, but it’s safest to follow the one pet per carrier rule.

4. Does my pet need ID tags on its carrier?

   Yes, for your pet’s safety you should attach ID tags securely to the outside of the carrier with your name, address, and contact phone number clearly written on them in case the carrier is misplaced in transit. This definitely helps get Fido or Fluffy back home!

5. “What paperwork is required?”

   When traveling with a pet on a plane, you’ll usually need some form of health certificate from a vet showing your pet is healthy, up-to-date on shots, and safe to fly. Documents may vary from airline to airline, so it’s crucial to check specific rules well ahead of your trip.

6. “Can my pet fly in the cargo hold?”

   Maybe. Certain small pets like cats and small dogs can travel in the plane’s cargo hold if they are in an approved carrier. But some airlines only allow pets in the main cabin due to safety concerns. It’s best to verify cargo hold policies carefully before booking your flight.

   

In summary, checking your specific airline’s pet travel rules and following regulations closely will help ensure a stress-free flight for you and your furry companion. Airlines can differ a lot on carrier size limits, paperwork specifics and cargo versus cabin transport options. Doing your research ahead of time rather than learning rules the hard way at the airport is definitely the way to go here.