Alaska Air Pet Carrier Dimensions: Size Requirements for Flying with Dogs and Cats on Alaska Airlines

Everything You Need to Know About Flying with Pets on Alaska Airlines

If you’re planning to take your furry friend on an Alaska Airlines flight, you’ll want to make sure their pet carrier meets size requirements. This article answers all the important questions about pet travel so you can feel prepared come travel day.

Alaska Airlines Pet Carrier Size Limits

1. Hard-sided or soft-sided carriers are both allowed, but hard-sided is recommended for safety.
2. The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you. Alaska’s under-seat space is 17 inches high by 13 inches wide by 7.5 inches deep.
3. Cats and some small dogs can travel in a soft-sided carrier of this size. Larger dogs will need a hard-sided carrier no bigger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

From my experience traveling with pets, it’s crucial to measure your carrier and only use one that adheres to the size policy. Oversized carriers won’t fit under the seat and you risk your pet being denied boarding. I once showed up at the airport with a carrier an inch too large – let this be a cautionary tale!

Verify Carrier Requirements for Your Specific Itinerary

Many factors impact pet travel rules, so always double check requirements for your route. For example, laws differ internationally so you’ll need to plan well in advance for flights leaving the country. Additionally, some destinations like Hawaii have stricter quarantine policies. Do your homework to avoid issues down the line.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Flight

Get your pet used to the carrier. Starting carrier training weeks before your trip reduces stress. Familiarize them with short practice sessions indoors and gradually work up to longer periods.

Bring ID, health records, and rabies certificate. These are required, so pack them with your boarding pass. Keep documents handy at check-in too.

Use pee pads or paper towels. Accidents in-flight are no fun to clean. Lining the carrier makes clean-up easier if needed.

Bring food, water, and favorite toys. A snack can distract during take-off and landing when ears may pop. Toys provides comfort in an unfamiliar place.

With the right preparation, flying with pets on Alaska Airlines can go smoothly. But stuff happens – I once had to comfort a kitten having a meltdown for an hour straight at 30,000 feet! Patience and problem-solving skills go a long way. You’ve got this!

Checking a Larger Pet Crate

If Fido is a Great Dane, his carrier may exceed carry-on size. No worries – you can check it instead! However, there are size limits and extra fees apply. The maximum checked pet kennel dimensions on Alaska are 51 x 16 x 24 inches.

Basically, the kennel must fit in the cargo hold safely. Larger crates may be denied unless you purchase an extra seat. I’d contact Alaska beforehand to figure out sizing and costs. Kind of a hassle to drive to the airport only to learn Fido’s crate won’t fly, you know?

Seat Purchase Requirements for Emotional Support Animals

Emotional support animals (ESAs) and psychiatric service animals fly free of charge in the cabin, but other policies still apply. The carrier must fit under the seat as a carry-on. Additionally, you’ll need medical documentation from your licensed mental health professional and allow at least 48 hours to process the request.

If traveling with an ESA larger than a lapdog, Alaska requires purchase of an extra seat for the animal. I’ve heard tales of folks basically renting out a fake service animal vest online to dodge pet fees. But let me tell you – it’s not worth the ethical dilemma or risk to other passengers with allergies if caught. Do right by your pet and other flyers.

Alternative Transport Options

In some cases, flying may not be best for your pet’s comfort or safety. You’ve got options:

1. Drive yourself if it’s feasible distance-wise. No stress of airports or unfamiliar environments.
2. Use a pet transportation service who are pros at relocating animals long distances.
3. Board your pet locally and travel light yourself if a long trip.

Weigh pros and cons of each based on your situation. At the end of the day, what matters most is your pet’s well-being. I still recall one dog who looked absolutely terrified on our flight – maybe he should’ve boarded after all!

Final Preflight Checklist

1. Carrier size approved (measure again just in case)
2. Documents and vet records in order
3. Food, water, pads/paper, toys packed
4. Seat purchased if needed for large pets
5. Familiarized pet with carrier beforehand

Double check everything is in order the day before your trip. Then relax and enjoy your journey with your furry friend! Flying with pets on Alaska Airlines is totally doable with the right prep. And who doesn’t love having your buddy by your side on a vacation? Wishing you amazing travels – let me know if any other questions come up!

Pet Carrier Dimensions for Alaska Airlines

Carrier Model	Interior Length	Interior Width	Interior Height	Weight Limit
Sherpa Original Carrier	19 inches	13 inches	11.5 inches	15 pounds
Petmate Sky Kennel	21 inches	16.5 inches	13.5 inches	22 pounds
Snoozer Lookout Soft Side	18 inches	13 inches	11 inches	15 pounds
Go Pet Club Fold & Carry	21 inches	15 inches	12 inches	17 pounds

FAQ

1. What size pet carrier can I bring on Alaska Airlines?

   Alaska allows pet carriers up to 18x14x8 inches to be brought in the cabin. Anything bigger needs to be checked as cargo.

2. Do I need to buy my pet an airline ticket?

   Yep, pets riding in the cabin basically need their own ticket. However, if your pet is small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat, there is usually no extra charge beyond the standard baggage fee.

   

3. What documents do I need for my pet to fly?

   You’ll need a health certificate from your vet saying your pet is fit to travel. The certificate can’t be older than 10 days. Pets also need up-to-date vaccinations. It’s best to check Alaska’s full requirements beforehand to avoid issues.

4. Can I use any pet carrier or does it need specific features?

   The carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. It also needs to be well-ventilated with no loose wires or edges that could injure your pet. A carrier with a leak-proof bottom is highly recommended!

5. Is there a weight limit for pets on planes?

   Most airlines set a limit around 20 pounds for pets in the cabin. Anything heavier would need to travel in the cargo hold as checked baggage. Do note the weight limit includes the weight of the carrier.

6. What if my pet is anxious about flying?

   Calm them with soothing music or toys in the carrier. Talking in a gentle voice can help too. Ask your vet about anti-anxiety meds if needed. On the day, give your pet plenty of exercise beforehand so they’ll sleep on the flight. A favorite blanket or toy for comfort may also ease stress.

7. How early should I check in with my pet?

   It’s highly advisable to arrive at the airport a minimum of two hours before your domestic flight. Check-in takes longer with pets due to paperwork checks. Arriving early leaves room for any issues without risk of missing the plane. Better safe than sorry!

8. What happens if my pet gets lost during a flight?

   Airlines make efforts to prevent this from occurring. However, should the unthinkable happen, they have procedures in place to find lost pets. You’ll want to report the problem right away and give Alaska any ID tags or microchip details to expedite locating your furry friend. Most pets are quickly reunited with their worried owners.