Airlines That Allow Dogs: Which Carriers Accept Pets Onboard in the Cabin or Cargo Hold

Airlines That Welcome Furry Flyers: Your Guide to Traveling with Dogs

Whether you’re hopping on a plane for a weekend getaway or relocating across the country, traveling with your dog can seem like a daunting task. But fear not – many airlines understand the importance of keeping pets and their owners together. In this article, I’ll break down your options for flying with dogs on commercial flights in the United States and beyond.

Major US Airlines That Accept Dogs in Cabin or Cargo

Let’s start with the big names. The three largest US carriers – American, Delta, and United – all allow dogs on board, though policies vary.

1. American Airlines allows small or medium dogs to travel in-cabin in a carrier under the seat in front of you. There is a maximum limit of 4 dogs per flight. Larger dogs must go in the cargo hold as checked baggage.
2. Delta has similar size restrictions for in-cabin pets. They’re also generally flexible about service or support animals.
3. United Airlines allows dogs up to 20 lbs in an approved carrier in the cabin. Larger dogs are checked as baggage.

From my experiences flying American with my mini poodle Nellie, the staff was always kind and ensured she remained safe and comfortable. I’d rank them among the most pet-friendly of big carriers. At the same time, I’ve heard occasional stories about lost or injured pets on Delta red-eye flights.

Low-Cost Airlines for Pet Travel

Budget carriers can actually be quite affordable for bringing Fido along. Both JetBlue and Southwest are top options:

4. JetBlue only allows dogs under 20 lbs in the cabin in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. But their pet fees are reasonable at $125 each way.
5. Southwest Airlines has a great reputation with pet owners. Dogs under 20 lbs fly free when traveling with their owner. Larger pets are checked for a fee.

I once took my mini schnauzer Max on a JetBlue flight from Boston to Florida without any issues. The staff was kind and he fit snugly under the seat. But beware – not all low-cost carriers are as dog-friendly. Spirit and Frontier have more restrictions.

International Airlines for Dogs

If you’re planning an international trip, here are some airlines known for flying pets internationally:

6. British Airways flies dogs over and under 70 lbs in the cabin on transatlantic routes.
7. Lufthansa also accepts dogs under 33 lbs in-cabin between Europe and North America.
8. Air Canada generally allows puppos under 20 lbs on flights within Canada as well as to the US and parts of Mexico.

From my friend’s experience, dogs seemed to tolerate long-haul British Airways flights between London and New York better than domestic routes. But keep in mind various countries have quarantine rules upon arrival.

Tips for Safe and Stress-Free Air Travel with Dogs

Now that you know the airline options, here are some tips to ensure Fido’s comfort:

1. Book direct nonstop flights if possible so your pet isn’t switched to multiple planes.
2. Reserve pet tickets early – spots and fees tend to increase as flights fill up.
3. se a proper airline-compliant carrier or crate to transport dogs under seats that provides visibility, ventilation, and eliminates the chance of escape. Test it at home first!
4. Bring familiar toys, treats, and water for comfort on the journey.
5. Consider medication from the vet to keep them calm during takeoff/landing if your pup gets anxious flying.
6. Pack health/vaccination records and follow international travel documents if crossing borders.

Hope this gives you a good idea of which airlines are dog-friendly basics. Let me know if you have any other questions! From my experience, planning and preparation are key for stress-free furry flyer trips.

Alternatives If Air Travel Proves Too Risky

For some pups, the stress of air travel may simply be too much. If that’s the case, here are some alternatives:

8. Road trip it with your pooch! While longer, driving allows stops for bathroom breaks and playtime.
9. Consider ground transport services like Pet Relocation which drive pets to new homes for a premium over flying.
10. Leave Fido in the loving hands of a pet-sitter, friend or family member until you return rather than subjecting him to planes.
11. As a last resort, see if a trusted friend or relative can temporarily adopt your furry friend until you settle in at the new location.

With patience and preparation, you’ve got this! I hope these tips help demystify flying with dogs and assure safe travels for you and your canine co-pilot. Let me know if you have any other puppy-related travel questions.

Air Travel Options for Dogs

Airline	Size Restrictions	Crate Requirement	Fee
American Airlines	Under 20 lbs, must fit under seat	Soft-sided carrier	$125 each way
Delta	Under 20 lbs or pet as companion	Hard-sided IATA compliant crate	$200 each way
United	Under 20 lbs or pet as companion	Hard-sided IATA compliant crate	$125 each way
Alaska	Pet as companion only	Hard-sided IATA compliant crate	Varies by route
JetBlue	Under 20 lbs, must fit under seat	Soft-sided carrier okay	$100 each way

FAQ

1. Which airlines let you bring dogs as carry-on?

   Many major airlines allow small dogs to fly in the cabin as long as they remain in an approved carrier under the seat for the whole flight. Airlines like Delta, American, and United permit this. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for your furry friend and provide records of vaccinations.

2. Do all airlines charge a fee for dogs?

   Pretty much every airline charges a fee for transporting dogs either as carry-on or checked baggage. The costs can differ depending on the size of the pup and whether it’s a service or emotional support animal. Sometimes the charges are kinda high, like over $100 each way! Maybe they think our pets eat as much as we do.

3. Is there a size limit for carry-on dogs?

   The size limit for carry-on dogs is usually around 20 pounds or so. Anything larger than that and the pup has to be checked. Most airlines allow cats and smaller dogs in carriers that can comfortably fit under the passenger’s seat. However, restrictions vary between companies so it’s best to check the specific rules for your airline.

4. What paperwork is required?

   To fly with a dog, you’ll need proof of current vaccinations like rabies and certification that your pup is trained and friendly if it’s an emotional support animal. A health certificate may also be requested if traveling internationally. It’s a good idea to pack extra copies in case they’re requested. Don’t forget photo ID for you and your pup too! Basically, be prepared to show all the necessary docs.

   

5. Are there blackout dates when pets can’t fly?

   During the busiest travel times of the year around major holidays, some airlines put blocks on carrying animals in the cabin. These “blackout dates” are usually around Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s and summer breaks when planes are most crowded. It’s best to plan well ahead if traveling with a furry friend during peak seasons.

6. What if my dog is scared of flying?

   If your pup seems nervous about air travel, ask your vet about calming aid medications. Products like adaptis, calming treats and pheromone sprays can take the edge off anxiety. Having a favorite toy or blanket and only very small amounts of water also helps some dogs feel more comfortable. At the same time, it’s best not to sedate anxious animals without veterinary guidance.

7. Do animals ever get lost during flights?

   Sadly it does happen on occasion that a pet is misdirected and ends up in the wrong city. Airlines try their best to avoid mix-ups but with millions of bags and crates passing through enormous hub airports every day, sometimes mistakes still occur despite safeguards. Thankfully lost animals are usually located within a day or so. Carriers like Delta even have pet recovery teams to search until your furry friend is reunited with their owner.