Clearing Up the Confusion Around American Airlines Pet Carrier Size Limits
If you’ve recently booked a flight on American Airlines with your furry companion in tow, you may be wondering about their specific requirements for pet carriers stored under the seat in front of you. From my own experience traveling with pets on planes, I know the rules can seem vague or inconsistent between different airlines. In this article, I’ll try to clear up any confusion by laying out American’s exact dimensions that carriers must meet to fit safely beneath the seat.
Understanding the Three Main Size Categories
To start, it helps to recognize that American groups pet carriers into three main categories based on size: under-seat, personal item, and cargo. Only carriers meeting the strictest under-seat measurements can be kept at your feet for the entire flight. Larger carriers must be checked as cargo or stored in the overhead bin as a personal item.
The under-seat size is crucial because it allows you to keep Fido or Felix close by in a confined carrier directly under the seat in front of you. This is undoubtedly the most comfortable scenario for both pet and owner. So let’s examine those dimension limits carefully.
Maximizing Space Within the Strict Limits
American states that an under-seat carrier must not exceed 17 inches long by 10 inches wide by 7 inches high. For a nervous flyer like my terrier Percy, fitting securely in the tightest of spaces is key. From my experience, you’ll want to measure your carrier meticulously and maximize every inch allowed.
I once traveled with a carrier that was 2 inches too long and had to store it in the cargo hold, much to Percy’s dismay. Upon arriving, he was traumatized from being out of sight for so long. I’ve since learned to really squeeze every fraction of an inch I can get!
Additional Tips for Proper Fit
- Check dimensions with an actual tape measure, not just eyeballing it. Carriers are often not perfectly rectangular.
- If collapsible, make sure dimensions given are for the fully assembled size, not collapsed.
- Consider carriers that retract or fold in slightly on the ends for a tighter fit.
- Soft-sided carriers can sometimes stretch or compress an inch or so to get the proper fit.
The key is getting as close as possible to those maximums without going over. Any excess could result in your carrier having to ride cargo instead of under your seat. And as my pup Percy would agree, that’s definitely not ideal!
What About Soft-Sided Carriers?
An additional note – while American does allow soft-sided carriers provided they are secured and don’t contain anything dangerous, the dimensions can be trickier to measure accurately. From my experience, soft carriers often appear smaller than their actual measurements once stuffed with your pet and belongings.
To be safe, if cutting it close size-wise, I suggest stuffing the carrier beforehand to get the real dimensions. Kind of like trying on jeans – you wanna make sure it’s comfy with Fido inside, not just laying empty! Much better to know for sure before getting to the airport.
Preparing All Paperwork
Of course, proper documentation is equally important. Be sure to review American’s specific requirements for health certificates, vaccinations, and any other paperwork they require. Oftentimes this info is available right on their website under “Traveling with Pets.”
Trust me, no one wants a delay at the airport because Rover is missing his rabies tag or Fluffy lacks the right health forms. Do your homework ahead of time to ensure smooth sailing come departure day. A little prep goes a long way towards avoiding hassles when you’re already stressed about flying with your pet!
Don’t Forget Comfort Items
One final tip – pack some favorite toys, treats, or other comfort items to keep pup or kitty occupied and calm inside the carrier. Especially on longer flights, having familiar scents and toys can help reduce stress. Maybe even bring an extra towel or shirt with your scent, which dogs especially find comforting.
I always bring Percy’s favorite squeaky hedgehog toy along in his approved-size carrier. The familiar sounds help relax him even in unfamiliar surroundings like the cargo hold of a plane. Anything to help our four-legged friends feel safe and secure at 30,000 feet!
Safe and Stress-Free Travel
With diligent measurement of your carrier, proper documentation in order, and comfort items onboard, flying American Airlines with pets need not be an overly anxious affair. Careful planning will help ensure your furry companion’s carrier meets the strict under-seat size limits for keeping them close by your side throughout the flight.
And as any pet parent knows, that’s really the most amazing thing. So happy travels to you and your four-legged family member! Let me know if you have any other pet travel questions.
American Airlines Pet Carrier Dimensions
| Carrier Type | Length (inches) | Width (inches) | Height (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft-Sided | 24 | 16 | 10 |
| Hard-Sided | 21 | 13 | 9 |
| Airline-Approved Bag | 21 | 14 | 8 |
| Under-Seat Bag | 18 | 11 | 7 |
| Purse or Tote | 16 | 10 | 6 |
FAQ
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What size pet carrier can I bring on American Airlines?
Most American Airlines flights will allow you to bring a pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The maximum size is typically around 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. Bigger carriers need to be checked as luggage.
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Do hard or soft carriers work better on planes?
Both hard-sided and soft-sided carriers are allowed on planes, but one type may be better than another depending on the situation. Hard carriers provide more protection, but soft carriers are lighter and more flexible. For a small dog, a soft-sided bag might be simpler to use onboard. However, some animals may feel safer in a hard case’s enclosed space.
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What else do I need for my pet on a flight?
In addition to an approved carrier, you’ll want to bring ID tags with up-to-date contact info, a leash, bowls, a collar or harness, a supply of food and water for the journey, any medications, papers proving vaccinations are current, and cleanup materials like paper towels or a portable potty. Having all the essentials makes traveling with pets a tad easier and more stress-free, for you and your furry companion!
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Are there any restrictions on what kinds of pets can fly?
Most domestic animals like cats and dogs are A-okay to bring along. However, some exotic pets or dangerous breeds may be prohibited. Snakes, insects, farm animals – those critters tend to be a no-go. Check American’s website or give them a call beforehand to double check your pet is airline approved. That way you won’t end up disappointed at the airport.
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Will my pet be comfortable in the cargo hold?
While the cargo hold does give animals more space to move around than the cabin, it’s kind of unpleasant down there. It’s loud, no windows to see out of, and the conditions can be extreme – very hot or cold depending on weather. So for shorter flights under 10 hours, cabin travel might be a kinder option if the carrier fits under the seat. Nevertheless, American and other airlines take precautions to ensure animal safety in all areas of the plane.
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Is it more $$$ to bring my pet in the cabin?
Yep, transporting critters in the main cabin will cost more green than checking them below. The charges aren’t totally insane though. For American, a fee of around $125 each way applies. Kinda pricey but well worth the cash imo to keep puppers by your side where you can keep an eye on them. At least that’s what I think! What do you guys think, is that steep or a reasonable cost for the more comfortable cabin experience?
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What other tips can help make flying with a pet less stressful?
One recommendation is taking your furry friend on a test trip in their carrier before the big flight. Getting used to the confined space ahead of time reduces uncertainties. You can also ask the vet for a mild sedative to calm nerves. Bring favorite toys/blankets and schedule outings if the layover allows. Keep positive reinforcement continuous. On the day, arrive early and check airline regs – knowing the ropes puts everyone at ease. With preparation like this, even anxious animals can fly stress-free!