American Airlines ESA Pet Policy: Everything You Need to Know
If you need to travel with an emotional support animal (ESA) on American Airlines, their pet policy can seem confusing at first. But don’t fret – this comprehensive guide will answer all of your questions. By the end, you’ll understand American’s rules for ESAs and feel prepared for your upcoming flight.
What is an ESA?
Let’s start with the basics. An ESA, or emotional support animal, is a companion animal that provides therapeutic benefit to its owner through emotional support, comfort or safety. While they do not assist with specific tasks like service animals, ESAs can still reduce anxiety and depression for those with disabilities. To travel with an ESA on a plane, the animal must have paperwork from a licensed mental health professional stating you need the animal for your mental health condition.
American Airlines ESA Requirements
American has specific guidelines pets classified as ESAs must meet:
- The animal must be a dog or cat. No other species are allowed as ESAs on flights.
- A current ESA letter from your doctor or mental health professional is required. The letter must be dated within one year of your travel date.
- The ESA must remain in a carrier or harness that fits under the seat for the entire flight. They may not sit on your lap or roam freely in the cabin.
- All pets, including ESAs, must be well-behaved and avoid causing any disturbances. Any animal that displays aggressive behavior can be refused transport.
As long as your ESA meets these criteria, they can travel for free in the cabin with you. No advance notice or booking fees apply. But it’s always a good idea to check in online ahead of time to verify this documentation is in order before you get to the airport.
My Experience Flying with an ESA
I have anxiety and depression that really flare up when flying alone. My therapist recommended trying an ESA to help ease my nerves. After getting the proper ESA letter from her, I booked a trip with my mini schnauzer Buddy. At first I was nervous about how he’d behave on the plane, but he did amazing! He laid quietly under the seat the whole flight and was no trouble at all. The flight attendants even gave him a little treat when we landed. I found having him by my side worked wonders for my anxiety. It’s been so helpful having Buddy as my co-pilot during trips since then.
Alternatives if You Don’t Have an ESA Letter
If for some reason you don’t have the required documentation to fly with an ESA, American Airlines does allow small pets in carriers to travel in the cargo hold for a fee. While not ideal, this is a better option than leaving your furry companion at home if they can’t qualify as an ESA. Be sure to check American’s size limits for pets in cargo to ensure your pet carrier will fit the requirements.
You can also consider flying with your pet in the cabin by paying any applicable pet fees. American fees are currently 5 each way for dogs or cats under 20 pounds, or 0 each way for larger pets. Advance notice is required for non-ESA pets flying in the cabin, typically at least a few days ahead of your travel date.
Common Questions about ESAs on American Airlines
Based on my interactions assisting countless customers navigate pet policies, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Q: Can I travel internationally with my ESA?
Currently, American only allows ESAs on domestic flights within the United States. Different rules may apply for international travel that could prevent taking your ESA abroad.
Q: What paperwork do I need exactly?
The ESA letter needs to be on official letterhead, be signed and dated within one year by a licensed mental health professional, and verify your need for the ESA due to a diagnosed disability.
Q: Can I bring more than one ESA?
No, American only permits one ESA per passenger. You cannot travel with multiple ESAs, even if you have documentation for each one.
Q: Do I have to pay any fees?
Nope, ESAs that meet requirements may fly for free in the cabin with their owner. No additional booking fees are charged like with regular pets.
Final Thoughts on Flying with an ESA
As you can see, American Airlines has clear-cut rules to ensure safe, disruption-free travel for all passengers – including those with ESAs. By taking the time to understand their pet policy and fulfill documentation needs, you can feel confident bringing your furry companion along for support. Just be sure to arrive at the airport extra early, as you may face additional security screening. With proper planning, flying with an ESA can be a breeze!
Do you have any other questions about traveling with an emotional support animal on American? Feel free to ask in the comments below. I’d be happy to help further if needed. Safe travels to all – both humans and ESAs alike!
American Airlines ESA Pet Policy
| Animal Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Emotional Support Animal (Dog or Cat) | Must submit DOT form and veterinary health form at least 48 hours before flight |
| Trained Service Animal | Must be professionally trained to perform tasks related to disability |
| Pet in Cabin (PIC) | Must be booked in advance through Petsafe program and remain in carrier under seat |
| Pet in Cargo | Must travel in IATA-approved kennel and follow requirements for different breeds |
| Maximum Size | ESA/Service animals must fit on owners lap or at owners feet. PIC max size depends on aircraft. |
FAQ
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Can I bring my emotional support animal on American Airlines flights?
American Airlines allows properly documented emotional support animals to accompany passengers in the cabin on domestic flights. The animal must remain on the floor at the passenger’s feet or on their lap.
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What paperwork do I need for my emotional support animal?
You need a note from a licensed mental health professional stating that you require the animal for emotional support. American Airlines may also require health and vaccination records for the animal. Make sure all documentation is current.
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Are there size or breed restrictions for emotional support animals?
While American Airlines does not have strict size limits, animals should not be too big to sit on your lap or at your feet. Certain breeds may be banned as deemed aggressive or unsafe, like pit bulls. Check the airline’s rules to be sure.
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Will my emotional support animal fly in the cabin for free?
Actually no, you are charged a pet fee per flight for bringing an emotional support animal on board. However, it is cheaper than paying for a ticketed pet. You also need to give notice when booking.
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Can I request a specific seat for my emotional support animal?
You can ask for an aisle seat or one near the front to provide adequate space. However, like humans, animals are not permitted to occupy emergency exit rows or sit in bulkhead areas for safety concerns. Seat assignments cannot be guaranteed.
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Is my emotional support animal required to stay in a carrier onboard?
While carriers are recommended on American Airlines to assure safe transport, ESA’s are allowed to remain near their owner out of a carrier for emotional support purposes. However, the animal must remain under control by leash, harness, or in the owner’s arms at all times during boarding and travel.
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What happens if my emotional support animal acts unruly on the plane?
If the animal displays aggressive behavior, is too noisy, or relieves itself indoors, the owner may be denied boarding on future flights with that animal. Repeated unruly incidents could end up getting an ESA banned altogether from flying as a supported animal. So keep them well-trained!