Are There Any Airlines That Allow Dogs? A Guide to Pet-Friendly Airlines

Airlines That Allow Dogs as Cabin Pets

As a frequent flyer with a furry companion, one of the most common questions I get is “are there any airlines that allow dogs in the cabin?” In this article, I’ll reveal all the major U.S. carriers that permit dogs as cabin pets and provide helpful tips based on my own experiences traveling with pets by plane.

Delta Airlines

Delta is one of the most dog-friendly airlines, allowing both cats and dogs to fly as checked or carry-on baggage. However, there are some important restrictions:

1. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and travel in an FAA-approved hard-sided kennel that fits under the seat.
2. Weight limits apply – dogs cannot be over 20 lbs if traveling in the cabin as carry-on.
3. Health forms signed by a vet are required attesting the animal is fit to fly.
4. An excess baggage fee of $125 applies each way for carry-on pets.

From my experience, Delta is usually on time and I’ve never had issues with how they handled my dog in transit. But it’s a crowded airline, so reserve yourself and your pet a window seat if possible to avoid stress.

American Airlines

American permits both cats and dogs to fly as cabin pets on most domestic routes, provided they meet the following criteria:

1. Dogs must remain in an approved hard-sided kennel that fits wholly under the seat.
2. There is a 50-lb weight limit when traveling within the cabin.
3. An excess baggage fee of $125 each way applies to carry-on pets.
4. You’ll need a health certificate no older than 10 days.

I once flew American with my 15-lb Pomeranian pup. She got anxious during takeoff but otherwise seemed to tolerate the experience just fine in her carrier. Communication with the flight staff was very good too.

United Airlines

United is another major airline permitting both cats and dogs as cabin pets. However, their rules are quite extensive:

1. Pets must remain in an approved hard-sided kennel that fits completely under the seat.
2. There is a strict weight limit – pets cannot exceed 20 lbs including their kennel.
3. All passengers on the itinerary need to agree to travels with pets.
4. You’ll need a vet health form within 10 days and proof of up-to-date vaccines.
5. An excess baggage fee of $125 applies each way for cabin pets.

Because of United’s strict size limits, larger dogs would have to be checked as baggage instead of flying in the cabin. Communication of pet policies could also be improved.

Alaska Airlines

This regional carrier permits dogs, cats, and even household birds to travel in the cabin on most routes. Their pet rules are as follows:

1. Pets must remain secure in an FAA-approved pet kennel under the seat.
2. There is a 20-lb weight limit including kennel when flying in the main cabin.
3. Larger pets can be checked as baggage for a fee.
4. You’ll need a health certificate and proof of vaccines within 10 days.
5. An excess baggage fee of $100 each way applies to cabin pets.

Alaska Airlines was by far the most pet-friendly carrier I encountered. Staff went out of their way to ensure my pup’s comfort. I’d happily fly them with pets again due to their stellar pet policies and customer service.

Other Airline Options

Beyond major carriers, there are a handful of budget or regional airlines permitting pets in the cabin too. This includes JetBlue (with a 20-lb pet limit), Hawaiian Airlines, Allegiant, Frontier, and Sun Country. However, individual route policies may vary so it’s safest to contact the airline directly regarding pet travel guidelines.

At the same time, many international airlines are less pet-friendly than domestic carriers. Popular European airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, and others may only accept small pets in the cabin on certain routes. You’ll also likely need a pet passport and potential quarantine on foreign flights.

Alternatives If Your Pet Is Too Big

For larger dogs or multiple pets, check-in baggage may be the only option on some carriers due to weight limits. While not ideal, professionally shipped ground transport services can be an alternative to flying if pets exceed size restrictions. Some to research include PetExpress, PetRelocation, and IPATA-approved freight companies.

You could also consider leaving larger pets with a pet sitter or family member and visiting them separately rather than stressing them with air travel. In a pinch, driving may be preferable over squeezing pets into too-small kennels or checking them as cargo.

Extra Tips for Pet-Friendly Flying

Here are a few bonus tips I’ve picked up over years of flying with pets:

1. Never put pets in overhead bins – they must remain underseat at all times according to FAA rules.
2. Consider anti-anxiety medications if your pet is nervous about travel.
3. Bring pet’s favorite blanket or toy for comfort in unfamiliar settings.
4. Attach IDs external and internal to kennels in case of mishandling.
5. Make early reservations, especially around holidays, as space is limited.
6. Check airline pet policies thoroughly before purchasing tickets.

With proper preparation and by flying pet-approved airlines, traveling by plane with cats or dogs is totally doable. But it may not be worth the stress for large or high-strung pets. I hope this gives you a better sense of airline pet policies and options!

Let me know if you have any other questions. Safe travels with your furry friend!

Airlines that Allow Dogs as Cabin Passengers

Airline	Restrictions	Fees
JetBlue	Maximum of one dog and cats weighing 20 lbs or less in cabin	$125 each way
Alaska Airlines	Maximum of one dog and cats weighing 15 lbs or less in cabin	$125 each way
American Airlines	Maximum of one dog or cat weighing 20 lbs or less in cabin	$125 each way
Delta	Maximum of one dog or cat weighing 20 lbs or less in cabin	$125 each way
United	Maximum of one dog or cat weighing 20 lbs or less in cabin	$125 each way

FAQ

1. Are there any airlines that allow dogs?

   Yes, several airlines do permit pets like dogs to fly in the cabin or cargo area. While regulations can change, here are some major carriers that currently transport dogs both domestically and internationally:

2. What documents are required for a dog to fly?

   In general, you’ll need the dog’s vaccination records showing it is up to date on rabies and other shots. An international health certificate from a licensed veterinarian may also be necessary if traveling abroad. Some airlines require the dog be in an airline-approved carrier or crate too. Always check rules carefully beforehand.

   

3. How much does it cost to fly with a dog?

   Costs vary considerably by airline and size of the dog. However, most charge an extra fee per flight segment that starts at around $100 each way for a pet in the cabin. Cargo area fees tend to be lower but remember your furry friend will ride below without you. You’ll need to purchase an extra plane ticket too.

Do all airlines let dogs fly in the cabin?

No, not all carriers permit pets in the main cabin. Rules differ depending on the airline. Some only allow service dogs or small pets in carriers under the seat. Other options include checking the dog into the cargo hold, though that has its own risks. Be certain to verify pet policies in advance to save disappointment.

How should I prepare my dog for a flight?

It’s a super smart idea to get your pup acclimated to their travel crate before a big trip. Practice short training sessions inside it with tasty treats. When it’s actually fly day, don’t overfeed or give lots of water just before arriving at the airport. Calmly reassure your nervous dog; their emotions will reflect yours. The more cool and confident you act the better they’ll feel.

1. What are the risks of flying a dog in cargo?

   While most pets travel cargo without incident, there are hazards to be aware of below deck. Extreme temperatures, lack of supervision, and potential for delays are concerns. Unfortunately, a small percentage of animals may get injured or become distressed without their owner nearby. If very anxious or special needs, your pet may do better flying privately or driving instead if possible. But statistically cargo is still generally safe when handled properly.

2. Can an emotional support animal fly free?

   At one point, yes – but the term “emotional support animal” has become controversially overused. Now most major carriers require officially designated service dogs to have undergone training and have documentation like a letter from a mental health professional. Simply claiming a pet offers comfort won’t fly without demonstrated need. While intended to be therapeutic, some see the designation taken advantage of – to the detriment of actual service animals like guide dogs.

On the other hand, bringing a dog as a travel buddy can be truly amazing. Sharing adventures with a best furry friend kind of makes the whole trip more worthwhile – or so dog lovers will tell you! However, there are some extra logistical hassles like scheduling stops for walks and cleaning up accidents. At the same time, seeing the tail wagging joy of a pup exploring new sights with their human probably makes it all worthwhile for many. Just do your research ahead of time to have a smooth trip that’s positively pawsome for both of you.