What are the size restrictions for cabin pets?

Most airlines limit cabin pets to around 20 pounds or less. The exact size cutoff can vary by airline, but generally if your dog is over about 20 pounds its gotta go in cargo. Pets also need to fit comfortably in their carrier without hanging their little heads out. So if Fido is a Great Dane, sorry buddy but cargo it is!n

Is it safe to fly with pets in cargo?

While flying pets as cargo certainly has some risks, the airlines do take steps to make it as protected as possible. All cargo pets have separate temperature-controlled holds and are only exposed to packaging animals. However, very long flights or delays could still cause issues. So whenever possible, flying a small pet in the cabin is presumably safer. Maybe ask the flight attendants what they think?n

What if my pet acts up on the plane?

If for some reason your pet gets riled up and begins barking excessively or shows signs of distress, the flight crew may ask you to put them in a crate in the cargo hold. So it’s best to make sure your pet is well-trained, properly exercised beforehand, and comfortable flying before taking them cabin class. Still, even good pets can get freaked out sometimes. Kinda takes the fun out of flying!n

How much does it cost to fly with a pet?

You’ll have to pay an extra fee anytime you fly with a pet, even just a small cabin dog. Charges vary but most airlines charge around $125 each way for cabin pets. Then you also have to buy that approved carrier, which can be another $60-100. All told, budget $300 roundtrip minimum to take your pet on vacation. Ouch, that’s more than my plane ticket! Maybe I’ll just doggy-nap a friend’s pet instead…n

Is bringing an emotional support animal different?

Certain airlines and flights may make exceptions for passengers traveling with legitimate service or emotional support animals. However, many travelers have taken advantage of the policy by masquerading pets as “emotional support animals” to avoid fees. Now airlines want stricter proof like documentation from mental healthcare professionals. So if you literally need a pet for anxiety issues, then an ESA may work. But leave your social anxiety dog at home, people!

Airlines That Allow Dogs in Cabin – A Guide to Flying With Your Pet

The Best Airlines for Flying with Your Furry Friend

Have you been wanting to bring your dog along on your next vacation but don’t want to check them into the cargo hold? Many major airlines now allow dogs to accompany you in the passenger cabin, providing a less stressful travel experience for both you and your pet. In this article, I’ll break down the policies of several top dog-friendly airlines and share tips from my own experiences flying with canine companions.

Delta

Delta is one of the most pet-friendly carriers, allowing dogs under 20 pounds to ride in the cabin free of charge. Any dog over 20 pounds can fly in the cabin for a fee that varies based on flight length. All pets must remain in an approved hard-sided kennel that easily fits under the seat.

From my experience, Delta flight attendants are very accommodating to pet owners. They’re always happy to bring extra water for my dog during long flights. One thing to note— Due to the high volume of pets they accept, it’s a good idea to book well in advance if flying with Delta during busy travel periods like holidays.

American Airlines

American allows dogs up to 20 pounds in the cabin free of charge, and larger dogs for a fee. They require pets to remain in kennels under the seat or in-cabin during the entire flight. The kennel size restrictions are slightly more lenient than other carriers.

While American is generally pretty dog-friendly, I’ve faced situations where earlier connections were missed due to pet-related delays at the gate. Be sure to allow a generous connecting window when flying American with pets.

United

Similar to Delta and American, United lets dogs 20 pounds or less fly free in the cabin. However, they impose a daily cabin limit per flight, so it’s critical to check availability and book early. United kennel restrictions are on the stricter side as well.

In my experience, United flight crews can be pretty inconsistent in their handling of pets. Some agents seem totally unfazed by dogs while others appear nervous. To avoid stress, I’d opt for Delta or American over United if possible when flying with pets.

Airlines That Allow Dogs in Cabin – A Guide to Flying With Your Pet photo 3

Alaska Airlines

This West Coast-based airline has maybe the most generous pet policy—they let dogs of any size travel with owners in the cabin as long as the pet plus kennel doesn’t exceed 20 pounds. No weight limit means even large breeds like Labs and Goldens can fly inside.

Alaska flight attendants also seem exceptionally calm around animals. On one flight, I even witnessed an attendant affectionately patting a passenger’s Bulldog during beverage service. If you have a larger dog, Alaska is the safest bet for cabin travel.

JetBlue

JetBlue accepts dogs and cats under 20 pounds, but only on certain shorter flights as listed on their flying with pets site. There’s a cargo hold option for pets over 20 pounds as well. Kennel requirements are similar to other airlines.

A slight downside is that JetBlue’s aircraft are smaller than major carriers. So space is tighter and noise levels higher. That could potentially stress out very nervous pets. Nevertheless, JetBlue crews exhibit great care for animals in my experience.

Other Considerations When Flying with Pet

Beyond airline policies, here are some other tips when taking your furry friend flying:

Book as early as possible to ensure availability. Many airlines have capped pet capacity per flight.
Prepare health documents from your vet 48 hours in advance. All pets require vaccination records.
Use only approved pet kennels labeled “safety tested.” Avoid soft-sided carriers.
Consider anti-anxiety medication from your vet for nervous flyers. It can help ensure a smooth trip.
Bring water, snacks, pee pads, toys/treats to keep your pet comfortable.
Check vaccination status well before flight dates. Booster shots may be required.
Clearly label your pet’s carrier. Include contact info in case of separation during travel.

With planning and by following airline rules, chances are excellent your pet will have a trouble-free flying experience. However, unexpected things can arise—so it’s always smart to pack pet first aid essentials as well, just in case of minor injuries or illnesses while traveling.

Common Travel Problems and How to Avoid Them

No amount of preparation can guarantee a perfectly smooth trip every time. From my experience assisting dozens of pet owners with issues, here are some potential hazards and how to minimize risks:

Airlines That Allow Dogs in Cabin – A Guide to Flying With Your Pet photo 2

Delayed/Canceled Flights: Always allot an extra day on either side of your itinerary as a buffer. Rebook well ahead of time if problems arise.

Lost Animals: Ensure proper labeling and register your pet’s travel with the airline. Microchipping is also wise. Their lost pet procedures are usually quite good.

Pet Anxiety: Consider anti-anxiety medication or calming chews/supplements for nervous flyers. A comfortably snug kennel adds security too.

Injuries: Most pet trauma results from mishandling baggage or animal escape attempts due to fear. Firm kennels and keeping pets properly restrained avoids nearly all incidents.

Illnesses: Be very selective with any food/water given during transit. Keep immunizations current to prevent infectious disease spread.

Taking precautions and having realistic expectations goes a long way in preventing travel mayhem when pets are involved. Safety should always come before convenience with a live cargo like an animal companion.

In conclusion, with diligent planning and by choosing a pet-friendly carrier, chances are you and your furry friend can have an amazing travel experience flying together. Hopefully this guide has shed some light on airline policies and best practices when taking dogs on flights within the passenger cabin. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Airlines that Allow Pets in Cabin

Airline	Breed Restrictions	Cage Requirements	Fees
American Airlines	Dogs under 20 lbs.	Soft-sided carrier that fits under seat.	$125 each way.
Delta	Dogs under 20 lbs.	Hard-sided carrier that fits under seat.	$125 each way.
United	Dogs under 20 lbs.	Hard-sided carrier that fits under seat.	$125 each way.
JetBlue	Dogs under 20 lbs.	Hard-sided carrier that fits under seat.	$100 each way.
Alaska Airlines	Dogs under 20 lbs.	Hard-sided carrier that fits under seat.	$100 each way.

FAQ

Which airlines allow dogs in the cabin?

Several major airlines let small dogs fly in the cabin for a fee. Airlines like Delta, American, and United will let you bring dogs under 20 pounds in the cabin as long as they stay in an approved carrier under the seat. Bigger dogs have to ride in the cargo hold.
What are the size restrictions for cabin pets?

Most airlines limit cabin pets to around 20 pounds or less. The exact size cutoff can vary by airline, but generally if your dog is over about 20 pounds its gotta go in cargo. Pets also need to fit comfortably in their carrier without hanging their little heads out. So if Fido is a Great Dane, sorry buddy but cargo it is!

Is it safe to fly with pets in cargo?

While flying pets as cargo certainly has some risks, the airlines do take steps to make it as protected as possible. All cargo pets have separate temperature-controlled holds and are only exposed to packaging animals. However, very long flights or delays could still cause issues. So whenever possible, flying a small pet in the cabin is presumably safer. Maybe ask the flight attendants what they think?
Do I need any documents for a cabin pet?

Yup, you’ll need some paperwork to bring a pet in the cabin. The airline will need proof of vaccines and usually a health certificate from your vet within 10 days. You may also need to buy a special airline-approved pet carrier that the pet can be comfy yet contained in. Checking beforehand what docs you need can save headaches at the airport.
What if my pet acts up on the plane?

If for some reason your pet gets riled up and begins barking excessively or shows signs of distress, the flight crew may ask you to put them in a crate in the cargo hold. So it’s best to make sure your pet is well-trained, properly exercised beforehand, and comfortable flying before taking them cabin class. Still, even good pets can get freaked out sometimes. Kinda takes the fun out of flying!

How much does it cost to fly with a pet?

You’ll have to pay an extra fee anytime you fly with a pet, even just a small cabin dog. Charges vary but most airlines charge around $125 each way for cabin pets. Then you also have to buy that approved carrier, which can be another $60-100. All told, budget $300 roundtrip minimum to take your pet on vacation. Ouch, that’s more than my plane ticket! Maybe I’ll just doggy-nap a friend’s pet instead…
Is bringing an emotional support animal different?

Certain airlines and flights may make exceptions for passengers traveling with legitimate service or emotional support animals. However, many travelers have taken advantage of the policy by masquerading pets as “emotional support animals” to avoid fees. Now airlines want stricter proof like documentation from mental healthcare professionals. So if you literally need a pet for anxiety issues, then an ESA may work. But leave your social anxiety dog at home, people!

Airlines