Airlines That Allow Large Dogs in Cabin for 2024 – Your Guide to Flying with Big Dogs

Airlines That Fly With Your Furry Friend: Options for Traveling With Large Dogs in the Cabin in 2022

As an avid traveler with a Great Dane named Max, I was always struggling to find pet-friendly flight options. Over the years, I’ve faced numerous situations where Max was not allowed in the cabin due to size restrictions. But the rules are gradually changing for the better! In this article, I’ll break down the top airline choices for flying with large dogs in 2022.

Delta Airlines

Delta is one of the most pet-friendly carriers, with some of the most generous size allowances. They allow dogs and cats up to 20 pounds in carry-on kennels that fit under the seat. For larger pets, you can check them in the cargo hold as long as the kennel dimensions don’t exceedLinear: 122 cm (48 in) +Girth: 152.4 cm (60 in). From my experience traveling with Max, who measures 85 lbs, this size restriction worked well.

Another great thing about Delta is that they don’t charge any fees for emotional support or psychiatric service animals. However, pets flying as cargo are subject to a fee that ranges from 5-250 each way depending on destination. Overall, Delta gives dogs up to 100 lbs the best shot at flying in the cabin with you.

American Airlines

American Airlines allows dogs up to 20 lbs in cabin kennels under the seat, similar to Delta. For larger pets, the size restriction is Linear: 119 cm (47 in) + Girth: 152.4 cm (60 in), so just shy of Delta’s allowance. Pets flying as cargo are charged a fee from $125 each way. While American has a slightly smaller size limit, they remain a stellar option compared to other carriers.

From my personal experience, American staff are very knowledgeable about pet policies. I’ve never faced any issues getting Max’s oversized kennel approved at the gate. Their online Pre-Travel Checklist makes the process seamless. So despite the small size difference, American is a reliable choice too.

United Airlines

I must admit, United used to be one of the worst offenders for lacking pet-friendly policies. However, in 2022 they drastically improved their game. United now allows dogs up to 20 lbs under seat and slightly larger pets as cargo. The key thing to note is their size limit of Linear: 102 cm (40 in) + Girth: 72.39 cm (28.5 in).

While not as generous as Delta or American, United’s limit now accommodates medium to large breed dogs. And hey, it’s leaps above where they used to be! Essentially, United opens up options for traveling with dogs 50-80 lbs. Just be aware of the 175-300 dollar per flight charge for pets as cargo.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is another competitive option, allowing dogs up to 20 lbs under seat or larger dogs as checked baggage. Their size restriction falls right between United and the others: Linear: 103 cm (40.5 in) + Girth: 76 cm (30 in). One huge perk is that Alaska doesn’t collect pet fees, making it very budget-friendly.

In my experience traveling with Max on Alaska, the staff were quite knowledgeable about pet policies. A quick call to the special service line answers any questions. While their size limit isn’t the most generous, no fees makes Alaska enticing when planning an itinerary with Max.

Frontier Airlines

Unfortunately, Frontier has some of the strictest pet policies among major airlines. They only accept dogs and cats under 10 lbs in the cabin. Any larger pets must be checked as oversized baggage with rates starting around 300 dollars each way. Their small size restriction negates Frontier as an option for truly large breeds.

From my personal experience, I would not recommend Frontier unless traveling with an extremely small dog. The rates and limitations outweigh any perceived savings. While their basic fares are low, pet fees completely eliminate that benefit. There are better airline choices that work for medium to large dogs.

Key Considerations When Flying With Large Dogs

Outside of size restrictions, here are some other important factors to keep in mind:

1. Airlines may have breed restrictions on dogs like pit bulls, so check policies carefully before booking.
2. All pets must travel in approved hard-sided kennels that are adequately ventilated. Soft-sided carriers do not comply.
3. Health forms signed by a vet within 10 days of travel are standard, proving your pet is healthy, vaccinated and parasite-free.
4. Pets are only accepted on direct, nonstop routes. No connecting flights or you risk being separated.
5. Arrive extra early at the airport. Check-in takes longer with pets and any issues could jeopardize your flight.

Preparing Your Pet

Ease your pet’s travel stress with careful preparation. From my own experience, here are some tips:

• Gradually accustom your pet to their kennel at home with treats and positive reinforcement
• Consider anti-anxiety meds from your vet for flights
• Bring your pup’s favorite toy or blanket for comfort in the strange environment
• Minimize food/water 4 hours before travel to avoid accidents
• Notify the airline of any special medical needs your pet requires

Ground Transportation is Trickier

While flying is challenging enough with larger dogs, getting to/from airports can be tougher. Rideshares often prohibit any pets, while taxis have varying policies.

From experience, the best options are private vehicles or pet-friendly car services. Budget travel time for potty breaks. Public transit is usually a no-go with dogs over 20 pounds. Careful planning of your ground game is crucial too for stress-free travel.

Final Thoughts

Flying with large dogs is more possible than ever in 2022 thanks to developing airline policies. With the right planning and preparation, you can journey with your furry best friend hassle-free. While every pet is an individual, I’m happy to report Max has taken multiple cabin flights without any issues following these best practices.

In the future, as flying continues to become more pet-inclusive overall, we’ll see even more dogs experience the joys and bonding of travel. Hopefully one day, dogs of all sizes will feel as welcomed as children in the skies. For now, hopefully this guide has equipped you with the insights needed to make your big dog’s next adventure one to remember positively!

Let me know if you need any other suggestions for traveling with your big canine buddy. Safe travels to you both!

Airlines That Allow Large Dogs in Cabin in 2022

Airline	Dog Breed Size Limit	Cabin or Cargo	Advance Notice	Fees
Delta	Up to 20 lbs	Cabin	At least 48 hours	$125 each way
American	Up to 20 lbs	Cabin	At least 24 hours	$125 each way
United	Up to 40 lbs	Cabin	At least 24 hours	$125 each way
Alaska	Up to 75 lbs	Cabin	At least 48 hours	$125 each way
JetBlue	Up to 20 lbs	Cabin	At least 48 hours	$100 each way

FAQ

1. Which airlines allow large dogs in the cabin?

   Delta, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines are among the major carriers that let you bring your big pup onboard. Their size and weight limits are usually around 20-22 lbs and up to 2 feet tall. You’ll need to purchase an extra “pet ticket” and keep Fido in a carrier under the seat. I guess that beats checking them into the cargo hold!

2. Do I need any documents for my dog to fly in cabin?

   Yes, you’ll need to show your pooch’s vaccination records at the gate. The vaccinations required vary by airline but most want proof of rabies, distemper and sometimes bordetella too within a certain time period. It’s wise to carry the vet paperwork in case they want to check. Don’t leave Fido’s docs at home or you may end up getting left behind at the airport!

3. Is it stressful for large dogs to fly in cabin?

   It can definitely be unsettling for some pups. The noises, vibrations and close quarters may cause them anxiety. Talk to your vet about calming aids if your dog gets nervous easily. Most airlines require the carrier to fit under the seat in front of you, so pretty cramped! At the same time, flying in-cabin is probably less traumatic than being stowed down in noisy cargo. With some patience and treats, many big dogs adjust okay.

4. What are some tips for preparing a large dog to fly?

   Get doggo used to their carrier well before the flight. Feed them and play in it so it becomes a happy place. Consider practicing short car rides to get them used to vehicle sounds and motion. Make sure any collars, tags or nails are trim to avoid getting caught. And don’t forget snacks, water and maybe even calming aids like CBD or calming treats! Proper planning will hopefully land you a stress-free flying furball.

5. Is it more expensive to bring a large dog in cabin?

   Generally yes, the additional “pet ticket” and any size or weight limits do bump up the cost. Fees vary widely by airline but expect to shell out $100-200 or more each way. Nevertheless, for relaxed fur parents and pups, it’s worth it to keep them close by in-cabin rather than letting them fly unaccompanied with no oversight. Just be sure budget ample funds to cover any airline pet charges.

   

6. What size carrier is required for large dogs onboard?

   Carrier size regulations differ slightly between airlines so check individual policies. Most demand the container be no bigger than roughly 20x16x9 inches to fit safely under an airplane seat. But with big breeds you’ll want some wiggle room, so going up to 22x18x11 inches or larger still permits in-cabin travel on some carriers. Just don’t go too big or it won’t fit. The goal is have ample space without sacrificing portability. Measure wisely!

7. Is there an airline that has the most lenient rules for flying with large dogs?

   Alaska Airlines seems to have perhaps the easiest guidelines of the major carriers. They permit dogs up to a hefty 75 pounds to fly inside the main cabin at no extra charge, as long as canine and kennel fit under the seat. But lots of animals max out between 20-35 pounds on other airlines. So for truly huge dogs, Alaska could be the top choice if traveling a long way. Of course, availability and direct flights matter too based on your destination.