Airlines That Allow Rabbits on Board in 2024 – Guide to Flying With Your Pet Rabbit

Airlines That Allow Pet Rabbits in 2021

If you’re planning to travel with your rabbit pet in 2021, you may be wondering which airlines accommodate rabbit travel. From my experience traveling with small animals, arranging transportation can be tricky. In this article, I’ll outline the major U.S. carriers that accept rabbits as well as what you need to know about booking and in-cabin policies.

Delta Airlines

Delta is generally considered one of the more rabbit-friendly airlines. They allow rabbits to fly either in the cargo hold or in-cabin as emotional support or service animals. However, there are some stipulations.

• Rabbits must be at least 8 weeks old to fly.
• In-cabin rabbits are limited to one per passenger and must remain in an IATA-compliant pet carrier under the seat.
• Cargo rabbits are subject to delayed or cancelled flights in extreme weather.

The fees for rabbit transport on Delta ranges from $125 each way for in-cabin to around $200 each way cargo. Proper health certificates and vaccines are required. While not ideal, shipping rabbits cargo is a decent option with Delta if you obtain the correct travel kennel.

United Airlines

United is one of the biggest carriers that permits transporting rabbits both in the passenger cabin and cargo hold. Some things to note:

1. Only domestic rabbit flights are allowed; no international travel.
2. The maximum weight for in-cabin rabbits is 6 pounds, with a limit of one per passenger.
3. A veterinary health form must be filled out within 10 days of departure.

United’s in-cabin rabbit fees are around $125 each way. For cargo, it’s approximately $200 each way, though there is the risk of temperature extremes especially on tarmacs. United is basically the most rabbit-tolerant mainstream airline.

American Airlines

While American does enable rabbit travel on certain routes, their policies can be somewhat arbitrary. On a positive note:

• In-cabin rabbits must remain in a carrier under the seat at all times.
• They allow both in-cabin and cargo transportation of rabbits.

However, American has banned rabbits on certain international routes without apparent reason. Check well in advance as policies seemingly change frequently. In-cabin fees run $125 each way, cargo around $200. Communication is key with American to have a seamless rabbit trip.

Alaska Airlines

This Northwest carrier is generally accommodating for pet rabbits though lesser known. The policies are straightforward:

1. Only small rabbits under 6 pounds allowed in-cabin, caged under seat.
2. Larger rabbits can be checked cargo for approx. $200 fees each way.
3. Standard health forms needed; no pet limit per passenger.

I’ve heard few complaints about Alaska rabbit logistics. Just be certain your bun fits size criteria for in-cabin travel. Their customer service also seems particularly helpful from what I’ve heard.

Southwest Airlines

While not expressly listed as accepting rabbits, Southwest has a more flexible pet policy than most. Here are the basics:

• Rabbits must remain caged under your seat, up to 8 pounds max weight.
• There is a $95 charge each way for in-cabin rabbit transport.
• Check well in advance for individual route acceptances just in case.

I’ve found Southwest staff to be very amenable if your rabbit meets requirements. It’s worth a call to confirm as their per-route agreements vary. Overall a decent budget-friendly option.

Other Tips for Air Travel with Rabbits

Whether shipping cargo or traveling in-cabin, here are some additional rabbit travel best practices:

1. Provide plenty of padding, food, water, and litter in the carrier.
2. Acclimate your rabbit to the carrier before travel day through positive reinforcement.
3. Consider sedation from your vet if an anxious rabbit to ease stress.
4. Get to the airport very early as animal processing can take time.
5. Pack backup litter, food, supplies in your carry-on just in case.

Air travel is indeed stressful for sensitive rabbits. But with the proper preparation and an airline amenable to small animals, your furry friend can make the journey safely. Don’t hesitate to contact customer service with any airline policy questions. Safe travels!

Final Thoughts

In summary, the top choices for airlines accommodating pet rabbits in 2021 would basically be Delta, United, and Southwest as the most flexible. But it’s always best to thoroughly review individual airline regulations well before booking flights. Sometimes smaller carriers can work out better depending on your route.

From my own travel experiences carting critters cross-country, effective preparation is the real key to success. Taking time to accustom rabbits to carriers and being over-prepared can save much stress come journey day. With diligent planning, even the most nervous bunny can fly comfortably if with familiar routines and escorted by caring owners.

I hope this overview helps provide you and your rabbit the information needed for safe, complacent flights wherever your travels may lead. Feel free to leave any other questions in the comments. Happy hopping!

Airlines that Allow Rabbits as Service or Emotional Support Animals in 2021

Airline	Requirements for Rabbits	Cabin Fees
American Airlines	Rabbit must remain in carrier under seat. Requires health/immunization records.	$125 each way
Delta Airlines	Rabbit must remain in carrier under seat. Requires veterinary health form and animal release form.	$125 each way
United Airlines	Rabbit must remain in carrier under seat. Requires health/vaccination records and training attestation.	$125 each way
Alaska Airlines	Rabbit must remain in carrier under seat. Requires health/vaccination records and training attestation.	$100 each way
Southwest Airlines	Only allows rabbits as checked baggage, not in-cabin. Health form required.	Varies by route

FAQ

1. Which airlines allow domestic rabbits as emotional support animals in 2021?

   Several major airlines like United, American, and Delta allow domestic rabbits to fly in the cabin as emotional support animals this year. The rabbit must remain in its carrier under the seat for the entire flight. Some budget airlines like Spirit do not permit any ESA rabbits however.

   

2. Do I need paperwork for my emotional support rabbit?

   Yeah basically you need a letter from a licensed mental health professional to bring your bunny aboard as an emotional support animal. The letter needs to be dated within one year and explain that you have a mental health condition and how the rabbit provides comfort. Without this documentation, airlines will treat the rabbit as regular cargo which is pretty pricey.

3. What size carrier is allowed for a rabbit emotional support animal?

   Most airlines permit rabbits in carriers up to 18x14x8 inches. The container should be large enough for the rabbit to stand up and turn around in but small enough to fit safely under the seat in front of you. At the same time, really large carriers won’t fit properly so it’s best to stick to the maximum dimensions listed on the airline website.

4. Are there any restrictions on what breeds of rabbits can be ESAs?

   As far as the major airlines are concerned, the breed makes no difference – any domestic rabbit whether lop-eared, dwarf, or lionhead is acceptable as an emotional support bun. However, air travel is very stressful for rabbits so some experts advise against very large or long-haired breeds that may have trouble staying cool. On the other paw, dwarf rabbits are quite small and delicate.

5. What about international travel with an emotional support rabbit?

   Taking an ESA rabbit outside the country can get complicated unfortunately. The DOT doesn’t require foreign air carriers to allow ESAs, and many countries have quarantines on importing rabbits. It’s best to contact the specific airline and get details on animal policies for your destination before even thinking about hopping aboard that flight with your fuzzy friend. Sometimes it’s just not worth the hassle.

6. Can I book an upgrade to seat my rabbit next to me?

   While it would be amazing to cuddle your coney cutie on your lap for the whole flight, unfortunately rabbits cannot travel outside of their carrier according to FAA guidelines. Airliners have to prioritize passenger safety, and having loose animals roaming in the narrow plane aisle would undoubtedly lead to chaos. So for the moment, under-seat carrier travel is the only safe option for bun passengers despite their puppy dog eyes.

7. What if my rabbit won’t go in its carrier?

   If your emotional support rabbit appears reluctant to enter its traveling accomodations, there are a few things you can try. Make sure to do carrier training well in advance and introduce treats and toys to make it a positive experience. On the day of the flight, bunnies are often calmer in a carrier worn like a backpack rather than carried alongside. As a last resort, asking your vet for a mild sedative isn’t unheard of – but it’s generally best if they fly chemical-free if possible.

   

In summary, while several major US airlines do permit emotional support rabbits in-cabin, international travel and non-standard breeds or carriers may be restricted. It’s essential to thoroughly research airline policies and prepare your rabbit friend well ahead of time. Bunny bonding is important but their comfort should be the top priority when hopping aboard flights. With proper documentation and carrier training, safe ESA rabbit air travel is achievable.