What size pet carrier is allowed on Alaska Airlines?

Most airlines allow pet carriers that fit completely under the passenger seat in front of you. For Alaska Airlines, the maximum size for a pet carrier is 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Basically any plastic or fabric carrier that’s kinda small should fit.n

Can I bring two pets in one carrier on Alaska Airlines?

You can try to bring two small pets in one carrier, but it’s not really recommended. Pets might get freaked out being stuck together in a small space for a long flight. Plus the crew wants to avoid any hissing or clawing between pets. Alaska Airlines suggests using separate carriers even for small pets like hamsters. But perhaps two super friendly guinea pigs could manage? You’d have to get approval first.n

What if my pet carrier is an inch too big?

Alaska Airlines is usually pretty lenient if a carrier is only an inch or two over size limits. As long as the pet is calm and the extra space is minimal, the flight crew will probably allow it. However, if the plane is fully booked it’s safer to have an approved-sized carrier. Maybe you could try squishing your pet into a smaller borrowed carrier instead of risking a denial at the gate. Ultimately it’s up to the individual agents.n

What if my dog won’t go in the carrier?

If your dog hates carriers or gets super anxious about going in one, it’s important to desensitize them well before your flight. Try putting treats and toys in the empty carrier for positive associations. Gradually work up to closing the door when they’re inside. You could also ask your vet about calming supplements. On the day, go very slowly and gently encourage them in. Don’t force it if they freak out. But is it fair to subject other passengers to a stressed-out dog roaming loose on the plane? Perhaps driving may be a better option if they just won’t tolerate the carrier.n

Alaska Airlines Under Seat Pet Carrier Dimensions – Which Ones Fit and Rules for Flying with Pets on Alaska Airlines

A Comprehensive Guide to Alaska Airlines Pet Carrier Size Requirements

If you’re planning to fly with your furry companion on Alaska Airlines, the first thing you’ll need to determine is whether your pet’s travel carrier meets the airline’s size restrictions. Tucked under the seat in front of you is often the most practical option for in-cabin pet travel, but not all carriers will fit. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about Alaska Airlines’ under-seat pet carrier dimension policies.

Proper Pet Carrier Specifications

From my experience traveling with pets on various airlines, carrier sizing is one of the most important things to get right. Alaska Airlines allows pets to ride under the seat in front of you, but their carriers can be no larger than 17 inches long x 10 inches wide x 7 inches high, including any add-ons like handles or zippers. It’s crucial that your carrier fits completely within these maximum dimensions when closed. Airlines have no flexibility on carrier size – if it’s too big, you’ll be denied boarding.

Measure your pet’s existing carrier carefully with a tape measure before your trip.
If it’s too large, you’ll need to purchase a new travel-sized carrier that complies with Alaska Airline’s specifications.
Consider buying soft-sided folding carriers, which are often more compact than hard plastic or metal options when collapsed.

Contents of the Carrier

In addition to size restrictions, Alaska Airlines has policies around what can and cannot go inside the carrier. Here are the basics:

Only one pet per carrier is allowed.
The carrier must be escape-proof when closed, with secure latches or zippers.
It should contain a leash, collar, ID tag, and up to 2 pounds of the pet’s food.
No food or water bowls – these must be secured outside the carrier.
Don’t pack any other items in with your pet that aren’t required for their safety and comfort.

From my experience, it’s wise to minimize anything foreign inside the carrier in case airport personnel need to open it for inspection. Stick to only the essentials like a comfortable bed, leash, and a few treats. Anything more could be viewed as unsafe or in the way during the flight.

Under-seat Storage and Boarding Process

Once you’ve got the proper carrier for your pet, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with stowing and retrieving it on the aircraft. All under-seat carriers must remain securely under the seat or at your feet for the duration of the flight.

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During boarding, inform the gate agent your pet will be traveling with you. They’ll provide a colored identification tag to attach to the carrier. When finding your seat, store the carrier underneath with the zippers or doors facing toward the aisle for easy access if needed. Flight attendants may ask to see inside the carrier and check on your pet periodically throughout the flight.

When deplaning, wait for the aisles to clear before retrieving your pet carrier. The last thing you want is to fumble with it while other passengers are disembarking. Once off the plane, head directly to the designated pet relief areas before leaving the airport with your furry friend.

Special Considerations For Longer Flights

If you’ll be traveling multiple flight segments or have a longer haul ahead, there are a couple extra things to keep in mind. On Alaska flights over 6 hours, you’re allowed to bring pet food and bowls through carry-on – just be strategic on how you pack them so they don’t leak. You may also need more pet supplies than the standard 2 pounds of food for really lengthy journeys.

When making connections, allow ample time between flights in case of delays. Alaska Airlines will transport pets departing on connecting flights, even if you don’t make the original flight yourself. However, it’s always safer to include a buffer in case of possible mishaps. A tight connection increases stress for both you and your pet!

Don’t forget to plan potty breaks on the ground between flights. If transiting through airports without pet relief areas, get creative – consider asking airport staff about possible grassy spots to walk your pet temporarily.

Alaska Airlines Under Seat Pet Carrier Dimensions – Which Ones Fit and Rules for Flying with Pets on Alaska Airlines image 2

Common Compliance Mistakes To Avoid

Through counseling pet owners about airline regulations, there are a few standard mistakes I see travelers make when flying with pets on Alaska. Avoiding these pitfalls will help ensure a smooth journey:

Oversizing the carrier – double check dimensions against the maximum allowed.
Packing extra items inside the carrier that could compromise safety.
Forgetting identification and health documents if traveling between countries/states.
Not allowing enough time between connecting flights for pet potty breaks.
Trying to stash the carrier in an overhead bin instead of securely under the seat.

As long as you take the time to familiarize yourself with Alaska Airlines’ under-seat pet carrier policies, follow their rules closely, and prepare properly for any connections or long flights, flying with Fido should go without a hitch. Safe travels to you and your furry companion!

Let me know if you have any other Alaska Airlines pet travel questions. I’d be happy to offer my advice and experiences to help make the trip as low-stress as possible for all involved.