Airline Pet Fees: What You Need to Know About Traveling With Your Pet by Plane

Everything You Need to Know About Airline Pet Fees

If you’re planning to travel with your furry friend by air, you’ve probably heard that most airlines charge pet fees. As someone who has flown with pets multiple times, I know how frustrating these extra costs can be. In this article, I’ll breakdown common pet fees charged by major airlines and answer questions travelers have about bringing animals on planes.

Standard Pet Fees

Most domestic carriers in the US charge around 5 per pet per one-way flight in the cabin. The fees vary depending on the airline, but here are some typical rates:

1. American Airlines: $125 each way for cats or dogs in cabin
2. Delta: $125 each way for cats or dogs under 20 lbs in cabin
3. United: $125 each way for cats or dogs in cabin
4. Southwest: No pet fees, but only accepts animals in carrier under cabin seat

International flights tend to be more expensive, usually $200-250 each way. Cargo flights for animals traveling without owners are also pricey, often 0-400 depending on destination.

What’s Included in the Pet Fee?

The pet fees are supposed to cover any potential cleaning costs if an accident occurs. However, from my experience, they seem to be mostly a revenue generator for airlines. The fee provides your pet a spot in the cabin, but you may face additional charges like:

• Overweight pet cages/kennels can incur surcharges of $100 or more each way
• Some airlines charge extra for route segments involving multiple planes
• Last minute bookings within a week of departure have higher “rush fees” of $50-$150 extra

So in reality, the basic pet fee covers very little. You’re basically paying a tax for bringing Fluffy along. It’s kind of a raw deal if you ask me!

How to Save on Pet Fees

Luckily there are some tricks to cut costs. One is flying during off-peak days and months when demand is lowest. You may snag a discounted rate. It also helps to book well in advance whenever possible to avoid rush fees.

Comparing airline policies side-by-side is key too. For instance, while Southwest has no fees, American waives charges for emotional support animals if you obtain the proper veterinary documentation. Shop around for the best option depending on your situation.

What About Emotional Support Animals?

This is a pretty controversial topic nowadays. On one hand, emotional support animals can truly help some travelers with disabilities. However, many airlines feel certain travelers take advantage to avoid pet fees for untrained pets. The rules vary per carrier:

• American, Delta and others require official paperwork but don’t always charge fees for ESAs
• United tightened restrictions in 2021 and now charges fees for ESAs traveling in-cabin like regular pets
• Alaska Airlines banned ESAs entirely starting in 2021, only service animals allowed

In general, only legitimate support animals required due to a diagnosed disability qualify fee-free. For casual travelers, it’s no use trying to pass off pets as “ESAs” just to dodge charges. The airlines have gotten wise to this ruse.

What if My Pet Gets Denied Boarding?

On the day of travel, it’s possible your pet may fail to meet the carrier size limits or show signs of stress. As heartbreaking as it is, airlines will refuse boarding in those situations due to safety regulations.

Most carriers have a standard policy to provide a full refund of pet transportation fees in denied boarding cases. However, this doesn’t cover any sunk costs from non-refundable tickets you purchased assuming Fido was coming along. Consider pet-friendly travel insurance for peace of mind.

Any Other Tips?

Here’s a summary of best practices based on yours truly’s past experiences flying with puppers:

1. Book early and get vet clearance forms submitted 2+ months before your dates if bringing an ESA
2. Use soft-sided collapsible carriers that meet size limits versus hard plastic kennels
3. Bring motion sickness meds, pee pads, small toys and treats to distract your pet on the flight
4. Arrive at the airport extra early for check-in to allow time if your pet needs calming in the waiting area
5. Consider driving or taking a train for short trips rather than subjecting pets to air travel if possible

Hope this mega guide answered all your questions about airline pet fees! Let me know if any other pooch-related flying issues come up. Bon voyage and happy travels and bring that best furry friend along if you can!

Last Thoughts

At the end of the day, major carriers are for-profit businesses running a complex operation. While the pet fees are kinda ridiculous, flying animals is also no small task to coordinate logistically. There’s definitely pros and cons to consider from the airline’s standpoint too if you think about it.

Regardless of how you feel about their policies, traveling with pets does require extra care and responsibility on our part as owners. Sometimes it may just be kinder to board Fido at a facility near family instead of subjecting them to hours-long flights in a carrier, you know? Only you can decide what’s best for your pet pal.

Hope this article gave you something to chew on, pun intended! Let me know if any other questions come up as you plan getting man’s best friend to Grandma’s house this holiday season. Bon voyage and happy travels!

Airline Pet Fees

Airline	Pet in Cabin Fee	Pet in Cargo Fee
American Airlines	$125 each way	$200 each way
Delta	$125 each way	$200 each way
United	$125 each way	$200 each way
Alaska Airlines	$125 each way	Not allowed
JetBlue	$100 each way	Not allowed

FAQ

1. How much does it cost to bring a dog on a plane?

   Most airlines charge fees for animals to fly in the cabin. The cost can differ basically depending on the airline, flight details, and pet size. Fees are usually around $125 each way for cats or dogs under 20 pounds. Larger pets may cost more. Amazingly, it adds up fast if traveling with multiple pets.

2. Will my pet be comfortable flying?

   Many pets get pretty shaken up by the noise and movement on a plane. It helps if they’re calm and used to travel. Carriers must fit under the seat safely. Perhaps consider sedatives from your vet for nervous fliers. But is it worth stressing them out for a long trip? Their well-being should come before other concerns.

3. What paperwork is required?

   Airlines need proof your pet is healthy, trained, and won’t cause issues. Documents typically involve a veterinary health certificate, proof of vaccinations, and travel supplies. Kind of tedious, but important to avoid any fines or delays. Citing official sources, most airlines post exact paperwork prerequisites online for each route. Always check well ahead of time to stay legal!

4. Can my pet sit on my lap?

   Only small pets under 20 pounds like cats and miniature dogs qualify as “emotional support animals.” Airlines let them occupy your lap at no extra fee for comfort. But is that really fair to other passengers? Bigger animals must travel in checked baggage or cargo hold. On the other hand, certified service animals assisting disabled handlers can exceed size limits. Go figure!

   

5. What if my pet acts up on the plane?

   Most pets behave just fine. However, disturbances risk getting you booted off with no refund. Airlines don’t take chances following 9/11. Remember though, pets don’t always understand rules like humans. Maybe have backup plans or confess fears to staff upfront in case Fido gets frightened. Working together constructively usually resolves issues.

6. Are there any travel tips to ease my pet’s stress?

   Bring favorite toys or blankets smelling of home. Calm supplements like CBD and anxiety wraps work wonders for some pets, at least anecdotally. Also pack ID tags front and back in case carriers open in transit. Distract nervous dogs with training games. Ultimately, weigh if flying is best or consider safer land transport. But who knows, your pet might love the adventure – stranger things have happened!