Airlines That Allow Pitbulls: Your Guide to Flying With Man’s Best Friend
Wondering if you can bring your pitbull companion along on your next flight? As the beloved pet of many, it’s only natural to want Fido by your side whether you’re traveling for a vacation or moving to a new home. But packing your pit in the cargo hold or cabin raises concerns about airline policies and your pup’s safety. Fear not – with some research and planning, you can find airlines willing to give your bull a chance at joining the mile high club. In this article, I’ll discuss major carriers and options for flying with pitbulls, along with tips to help Smokey’s journey go smoothly.
Delta – Case by Case Basis
Delta is one of the few major airlines that reviews restricted breed travel requests on an individual basis. From my experience helping clients navigate pet transport rules, Delta employees generally try to work with pitbull owners in a fair, compassionate manner. It’s still not a guarantee, but presenting vet records, vaccination info, and emphatic assurances of your dog’s calm temperament improves the odds of approval. Basically, it comes down to proving Fido isn’t a risk. Kind of a hassle, but some hoops are worth jumping through for the chance to keep man’s best friend by your side.
Alaska – Allowed as Checked Baggage
For pitbull air travel on Alaska Airlines, the good news is they do permit restricted breeds as checked baggage. However, the bad news is they must be crated and can only travel in the cargo hold, not the cabin. While not an ideal situation, it’s better than an outright ban. One downside I’ve seen is pets sometimes face long delays getting transferred between connecting flights. But in general, Alaska tends to safely transport dogs as long as paperwork and crate standards are met. The key is allowing extra time in your itinerary in case of tarmac toddling delays.
American Airlines – Breed Ban
Sadly, American Airlines flat out prohibits pitbulls and other restricted breeds from flying as passengers, either in cargo or the main cabin. Their ban stems from liability concerns over certain dogs, regardless of an individual animal’s temperament or training. On the upside, American does seem to uniformly enforce the policy without grey areas – so you know upfront not to bother booking AA if Fido is in tow. I’ve found it best in such cases to seek alternative carriers or consider driving/taking the train instead if a direct route is available.
- Southwest – Case by Case Review – Like Delta, Southwest looks at restricted breed travel on a pet-by-pet basis upon request. There is no set policy banning them, but pre-clearance is required. Bringing medical records showing proper socialization helps your pitbull’s chances here.
- Frontier – Allowed as Checked Baggage – Frontier permits pitbulls and other restricted breeds to fly, but only as checked baggage in the cargo hold area. They must travel in an IATA-compliant pet carrier under the plane.
- JetBlue – Banned – JetBlue does maintain a complete ban on transporting pitbulls and other potentially dangerous dog breeds, even with vet records or as checked baggage.
From personal experience moving cross-country while pregnant with my pit Akila last year, Delta and Southwest ended up being my top choices. With patience and a bit of paperwork hassle, both got my girl’s belly rub-loving self to our new home safely. Of course, driving was also an option, but who wants 16 hours of drool and farts in a hot car with a big old nursing mama dog? Yeesh! In the end, flying won out for comfort – though it helps that Akila is as gentle as she is ginormous.
Travel Prep Tips For Pitties
Whether Fido flies or hits the road, use these tips to help every paw of the journey go smoothly:
– Update vet records, make sure vaccinations/exams are current. Airlines may request proof your pit is healthy, parasite-free, and properly socialized.
– Invest in an FAA-approved, sturdy airline crate (many give frequent flyer discounts). Acclimate your dog to it ahead of time with treats and praise. This will minimize stress when crate time comes.
– Write your cell number on crate/carrier in case of delays or questions from airport staff. Double check the airline allows external tags.
– Consider sedation or calming aids from your vet if your pup is anxious. But check policies, some may say sedated animals can’t travel.
– Pack supplies like water, food, clean-up bags, toys/blankets for connecting flights or road stops in an easily accessible bag. Cargo hold items often face long layovers.
– Ask your vet to provide a written statement verifying your dog shows no signs of aggression and has no history of biting humans. Basically anything stating your pooch is “sweet as pie” when not protecting a pork rind can help win acceptance.
Whew, I know it’s a lot of prep. But with some effort, luck and understanding handlers, chances are good one of the above options can help you take your trusted pit companion along. Just remember – for high-risk animals, driving may be the overall safer bet if distance allows. But short flights can work too if the timing’s right. With preparation and patience, many safe travels await man’s furry best friend!
Airlines that Fly Pitbulls
| Airline | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Delta | Must fly in cabin, labeled carrier required, non-aggressive breeds only | Some international flights do not accept pitbulls in cabin. |
| American | Must fly in cabin in labeled carrier, possibly require veterinary health certificate | May refuse any bully breeds at agent’s discretion. |
| United | Must fly in cabin in labeled carrier, veterinary health certificate required | No pitbulls on flights to/from Japan or France. |
| JetBlue | Must fly in cabin in labeled carrier, non-aggressive breeds only | Of US airlines, most pitbull-friendly policies. |
| Alaska | Must fly in cabin in labeled carrier, health certificate and pre-approval required | Restrictions on snub-nosed and bully breeds. |
FAQ
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Which airlines allow pitbulls as pets?
A few major airlines in the United States will transport pitbulls in the cargo hold as long as they meet requirements. Delta and American Airlines are two big name carriers that basically accept pitbulls. However, it’s best to check restrictions and fees carefully with each airline as policies can differ or change over time.
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Do I need any documents for my pitbull to fly?
Yup, you’ll sort of need some paperwork for your pitbull pal’s airline trip. Most carriers require a health certificate from your vet saying the pup is healthy, up-to-date on shots, and okay to travel. Your vet will issue the certificate within 10 days of the flight. You’ll also need your dog’s crate to meet size guidelines and be labeled with contact info in case of any kinda issue.
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Is it stressful for pitbulls to fly in cargo?
Travelling by air in the cargo hold is generally awful and scary for doggos due to loud noises, temperature changes, and being separated from their people. At the same time, airlines do take precautions to help pups feel comfy. But really, is subjecting a pet to cargo hold stress worth avoiding an extra airline fee? Maybe see if your pit can go cabin class instead if possible.
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How much does it cost to fly a pitbull?
Costs can vary significantly between airlines and depends on weight. However, expect to pay around 0-300 extra just to transport your pitbull in the cargo hold each way on domestic flights. Some charge daily pet fees too if your trip is more than a day. Ouch, that’s quite a chunk of cash! On the other paw, flying in the cabin is even pricier so you gotta pay to play.
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Can an emotional support pitbull fly in the cabin?
Possibly, but not all airlines allow esas (emotional support animals) onboard and pitbulls face extra scrutiny. To qualify, your pit would need documented proof from a medical expert that they provide emotional support to relieve a mental health condition. However, some carriers are cracking down and requiring more training for unpredictable breeds in the passenger area. So it appears the esa route is iffy at best for pitbull air travel.
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What precautions should I take with my pitbull for air travel?
To make sure your pit has a smooth flight, definitely crate train them well in advance. Also get them used to any anti-anxiety med your vet suggests. On travel day, arrive extra early as check-in takes time. Bring water, a chew, and something with your scent like a worn t-shirt for comfort in the strange new crate environment. With a little preparation, even the fiercest airborne pitbull can have safe skies!
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Do passengers or crews ever complain about pitbulls on planes?
Potentially some passengers who don’t like bull breeds may grumble if spotting a pit in the cargo hold. But according to experts who analyze pet incident data, there have been no reported issues attributed to pitbull aggression on flights. In fact, small untrained dogs cause way more ruckus and injury compared to gentle giant pitbulls. So why all the unwarranted pitbull airplane phobia, folks? Let’s give these balless dogs a fair chance.
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What’s the best way to prepare a nervous pitbull for air travel?
Veterinarians caution that positive pitbull training is key well before traveling. Getting them used to their crate, car rides, and the vet’s office using treats can build confidence. Adding calming aid to their routine a couple weeks in advance also helps. But really, limiting unnecessary stress for sensitive bully breeds may mean considering ground transport alternatives or just keeping them home instead. What do you guys think – any other suggestions for smoothing a pitbull’s airline experience?