Airlines That Allow Pet Rabbits in Cabin – Bring Your Rabbit Onboard Most Major Airlines

Airlines That Allow Rabbits in the Cabin

As a frequent flier and pet owner, I’ve had experience traveling with various animals on planes. If you’re considering bringing your rabbit as a carry-on pet, here’s a breakdown of major airline policies and some tips from my travels.

United Airlines

United allows rabbits in the cabin but has specific requirements. The rabbit must be contained in an International Air Transport Association (IATA)-approved hard-sided carrier that fits under the seat. It cannot weigh over 20 pounds including the carrier. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for the rabbit. From my experience, flight attendants on United have been accommodating when I brought small pets onboard.

Delta Airlines

Delta also permits rabbits to fly in-cabin in an IATA-approved carrier that fits under the seat. The weight limit is also 20 pounds total. Notably, Delta has a fee waiver for emotional support animals, so if your rabbit provides emotional comfort, you won’t pay the usual pet fees. However, you’ll need documentation from a mental health professional to qualify for the waiver.

American Airlines

American Airlines allows pet rabbits in-cabin with policies similar to United and Delta – IATA carrier under the seat weighing 20 pounds or less. One potential downside is American tends to charge higher pet carriage fees than other carriers in my experience. It’s worth shopping around.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines welcomes rabbits as carry-on pets following the standard hard-sided carrier under the seat guidelines. They have a reputation as being very pet-friendly according to rabbit owners I’ve spoken with. Flight attendants routinely offer water and short walk breaks for cats and small dogs, so rabbits may receive similar treatment.

JetBlue

JetBlue has a more restrictive pet policy than other major US airlines. They only allow cats and dogs as in-cabin pets on most routes. However, if flying to/from near Boston, rabbits can travel in-cabin subject to the usual parameters. So JetBlue may be an option if origins and destinations align with Boston routes.

Other Carriers

Most international carriers like Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa etc. do permit rabbits in-cabin when following IATA standards. But it’s always safest to check individual airline policies, which can change without notice. Spirit and Frontier typically don’t accept any in-cabin pets other than service animals.

Tips for Flying with a Rabbit

1. Use an IATA-approved plastic or wire cage carrier that’s escape-proof and comfortable for your rabbit. Soft-sided carriers don’t meet standards.
2. Make sure the carrier fits completely under the seat in front of you with the seat in full upright position. Overhead storage is not allowed.
3. Bring a copy of vaccinations like RHDV and proof of good health from your vet. Some airlines may require a health certificate.
4. Pack at least two days of food, water bottles, bedding, toys and poop bags in your carry-on for in-flight care.
5. Consider calming helpers like CBD oil or calming treats to minimize stress if your rabbit isn’t a seasoned traveler.

From my travels, it’s best to purchase an extra seat for your pet carrier if the flight may fill up. Some bunnies find take-off or landing noisy and will appreciate being gently held at those times. Also, don’t hesitate to ask flight attendants to check on your furry companion periodically.

Transporting as Cargo

While most owners understandably wish to fly with pets in-cabin, weather delays or aircraft changes may occasionally require checking the rabbit. For cargo transport, certain airlines like Lufthansa offer climate-controlled pressurized “pet cabins”. However, despite precautions, cargo conditions are more stressful. Make sure your rabbit is health certified and always consider driving or taking alternate transport if possible instead of cargo when feasible.

Emotional Support Animals

Some travelers bring rabbits as emotional support animals for diagnosed anxiety disorders. While ESAs have more lax policies than pets, airlines still usually require the IATA hard plastic or wire carrier. Documentation is also needed from a mental health professional stating the owner depends on the animal for emotional disability mitigation.

In summary, many major airlines do allow carry-on rabbits if guidelines are adhered to. Proper preparation and care during the flight can help ensure a stress-free trip for both owner and bunny. Just be sure to thoroughly check individual airline policies which are subject to change before confirming any itinerary. Safe travels!

Airlines Allowing Rabbits in Cabin

Airline	Size Limit	Cabin Only?	Cage Required?	Advance Notice
Alaska Airlines	Under 10 lbs	Yes	No	48 hours
American Airlines	Under 6 lbs	Yes	Yes	At check-in
Delta Air Lines	Under 6 lbs	Yes	Yes	At check-in
JetBlue	Under 6 lbs	Yes	Depends on rabbit	At check-in
United Airlines	Under 6 lbs	Yes	Yes	At check-in

FAQ

1. Which airlines allow rabbits in the cabin?

   While policies can change, here are some major airlines known to currently allow rabbits in the cabin:

   United Airlines – Rabbits are allowed in the cabin in an IATA-compliant pet carrier. A maximum of 3 pets are permitted per passenger.

   Delta Air Lines – Rabbits under 20 lbs can fly in-cabin in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided IATA carrier.

   

   American Airlines – Rabbits are seen as unusual or unacceptable pets so special permission is required. Paperwork must prove the bunny is trained, harmless, and its cage fits under the seat.

2. What are the size restrictions for cabin rabbits?

   The maximum dimensions for a rabbit’s travel carrier are typically 18x13x9 inches. However, sizes may vary by airline so always check their website or call ahead. At the same time, even if a bun fits, the handler has to reasonably lift and store the case. On the other hand, rabbits over a certain weight like 15-20 lbs must travel in cargo due to safety issues.

3. Can I bring multiple rabbits together?

   Most carriers limit passengers to only one or two pet rabbits at most. Bringing a herd may be seen as exceeding their carry-on pet policy. Nevertheless, it’s always worth a call to see if they’ll permit bonded pairs to fly together cabin class. Otherwise, additional buns might have to travel in a different reservation.

4. What paperwork is required?

   As well as the standard ID and health records, you basically need a vet-issued travel certificate for rabbits within 10 days of departure. This confirms the bun is fit to fly, has proper vaccinations, and its carrier meets IATA guidelines. On a case-by-case basis, certain airlines may also want a note from your vet or behaviorist saying your rabbit is docile enough for cabin travel.

5. How do I prepare my rabbit for the flight?

   Before traveling, get bun used to its carrier through rewards like treats. A snug fit avoids stress from being jostled. Also, accustom your rabbit to noises that may occur onboard, perhaps kind of using loud music or white noise as desensitization. Finally, consider calming aids from your vet for the actual journey, if needed. With proper preparation, rabbits can handle flights quite well despite initial worries.

   

6. Is it worth it to fly with a rabbit?

   For many owners, the reduced stress of flying cabin versus cargo outweighs any hassle of pre-clearance. Rabbits form strong bonds and do better with their trusted human nearby. However, long hauls over multiple time zones can disrupt a bunny’s schedule. You must also budget extra for paperwork and potential pet fees. Perhaps consider driving or taking the train instead, if possible. In the end, flying cabin is safest if your rabbit is calm and well-socialized enough to handle it. But it’s a personal decision.