Best Dog Friendly Airlines in 2024 – Which Airlines Allow Dogs in Cabin and Cargo?

The Best Dog Friendly Airlines to Fly With in 2021

If you’re planning a trip with your furry companion in 2021, finding an airline that allows pets in the cabin can be tricky. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or relocating cross-country, having your dog by your side makes flying much less stressful for everyone involved. In this article, I’ll cover the major US airlines and their pet policies, tips for booking and flying with dogs, and share my own experiences traveling with canines to give you confidence on your next pet-friendly flight.

Delta Airlines

Delta is one of the most dog-friendly carriers, allowing both dogs and cats in the cabin on domestic flights for a $125 pet fee each way. Dogs must stay in an FAA-approved pet carrier that fits under the seat, and certain breed restrictions apply. From my experience flying Delta multiple times with my miniature schnauzer, they’re very pet-conscious and the flight attendants always checked on us to make sure we were comfortable. Make sure to book early as only a limited number of pets are allowed per flight.

American Airlines

American has fairly lenient pet policies compared to other majors. They accept dogs, cats, household birds, and some small reptiles in cabin for a $125 fee each way on domestic routes. Larger pets must be checked as cargo. I once accidentally booked a full plane on American and the gate agent was able to switch me to an earlier flight no problem once I explained I had my dog. Overall they seem accommodating as long as you plan ahead.

United Airlines

United allows dogs and cats under 20 pounds in a pet carrier under the seat on domestic flights for 5 each way. Pets must remain in the carrier the entire time, from check-in through landing. But beware – I’ve heard some horror stories about United losing or injuring pets due to mishandling during connections or delays. Unless it’s your only option, you might prefer a different airline to avoid the stress.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest is one airline that does not accept any animals in the cabin besides certified service animals. However, they do allow small cats and dogs to travel in the cargo hold on a limited number of domestic flights for reasonable rates. While not ideal, checking a pet is a good backup option if you’re traveling Southwest and no other carriers service your route directly. Just be sure to book well ahead of time as space is limited.

Alaska Airlines

Known for their pet-friendly policies, Alaska allows dogs, cats, and even household birds in-cabin on most flights within the continental US for a $125 charge each way. They have no size or weight limits as long as your pet stays in an approved hard-sided carrier that fits completely under the seat. From my own experience, they’re extremely pet-focused and the crew will go out of their way to accommodate anything you need during the flight. Alaska is a great choice if available for your route.

JetBlue

While JetBlue is generally pet-restrictive compared to others, they do accept dogs and cats up to 20 pounds in a carrier under the seat on direct flights within the continental US for $100 each way. Unfortunately, they have a zero-tolerance policy for barking or noise from pets that could disrupt other passengers. Based on stories I’ve heard, this strict standard sometimes results in furry flyers being asked to deplane even for minor incidents. Tread carefully if booking JetBlue with a vocal dog.

Booking and Flying Tips

Now that you know the major airline pet policies, here are some tips from my experiences to help you book and fly smoothly with your canine companion:

1. Book early: Most airlines only allow a limited number of pets per flight for safety and space reasons. The earlier you reserve, the better chance of securing a pet-approved seat.
2. Pack lightly: Only bring one small carry-on bag for your pet to fit under the seat in their carrier. Avoid checking extra baggage that could get lost.
3. Prepare documents: Have proof of vaccines, microchip/tag info, airline disclosure form completed before check-in to avoid delays.
4. Bring supplies: Pack paper, plastic bags, treats, toys, collapsible water bowl, and meds/supplements in your carry-on in case of delays.

Tips for During the Flight

Once on board with your pup, keep these things in mind:

1. Stow carrier securely: Use cargo netting or strap over carrier to ensure it won’t shift during taxi, takeoff, landing.
2. Comfort your dog: Offer treats/toys, reassurance inside carrier to keep them calm during potential turbulence or noise of flight.
3. Request help if needed: Flight attendants are usually accommodating – ask to see your pet if anxious or offer water if hot.
4. Prepare for bathrooms: Have bags ready in case nerves strike and your pup can’t hold it the whole flight.

Alternative Options If Flying With a Pet is Daunting

I understand flying with animals isn’t for every owner or every dog. If the idea of having your pet in the cabin sounds too stressful, here are some other choices:

1. Consider flying cargo: As a last resort, ship your pet in climate-controlled baggage if other factors allow (direct flight, young/calm pet, etc).
2. Hire a petsitter: Leave Fido with a trusted house-sitter if your trip is short and separation anxiety is high.
3. Road trip instead: For nearby destinations, driving may ease worries over air travel with rest stops and familiar surroundings.
4. Board at a kennel: Use a licensed, insured boarding facility for longer trips when no one can house-sit.

Conclusion

With a little planning, the right airline, and some TLC during the flight, traveling by air with your dog can absolutely be achieved. I hope this guide helped provide helpful intel on carrier flights with the major US airlines. Don’t hesitate to prepare well in advance and contact the carrier directly if you have any other pet travel questions. Safe skies to you and your furry family member!

Dog Friendly Airlines 2021

Airline	Baggage Fees	Cabin Size Limit	Adavnced Booking Required
Alaska Airlines	$75 each way	Under 20 lbs	Yes
American Airlines	$125 each way	Under 20 lbs	Yes
Delta Airlines	$125 each way	Under 20 lbs or within carrier	Yes
JetBlue	$100 each way	Under 20 lbs	Yes
Southwest Airlines	Fly for free in carrier under passenger seat	Under 20 lbs	No, but limited availability
United Airlines	$125 each way	Under 20 lbs	Yes

FAQ: Dog Friendly Airlines 2021

1. Can I bring my dog on the plane as a carry-on?

   Most airlines only allow small dogs or cats to be carried in the passenger cabin. The animal must fit comfortably in an approved carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. Make sure to check your specific airline’s pet policy before traveling.

2. What paperwork do I need for my dog to fly?

   All dogs that fly as cargo or in the cabin need valid proof of up-to-date vaccinations. This usually involves a health certificate from your vet stating the dog is fit to fly. Some airlines also require an exam within 10 days of travel. Don’t forget your dog’s travel crate too!

3. How much does it cost to bring a dog on a flight?

   Fees and policies can differ a lot between airlines. In general, expect to pay around $125 each way for cabin travel or $200-250 each way for cargo. There may be additional costs like oversize pet fees, which are basically just a money grab in my opinion. Always check prices directly with your chosen airline.

4. Will my dog be okay flying in cargo?

   Most experts say dogs do fine in the cargo hold as long as it’s a short flight. However, it’s always safer to keep them in the cabin if possible. Cargo areas have extreme temperatures and loud noises that can upset a pup. There have also been lost or injured animal incidents reported over the years. So cabin travel is preferable if an option.

   

5. What are some dog friendly airlines?

   Major US carriers like Alaska, American, Delta, and United allow dogs in-cabin on most flights. They have size and number limits that vary by route. JetBlue has especially nice pet policies with early boarding available. International options to consider are Air France, Lufthansa, and Virgin Atlantic. But you’ll want to check policies for individual routes.

6. What if my dog acts up on the plane?

   Most trained dogs do fine, but young pups or those prone to anxiety may kind of freak out in the unfamiliar plane environment. Have calming aids from your vet on hand just in case, and notify the airline of any behavior issues in advance. If your dog becomes disruptive, you’re responsible and may be asked to leave the flight. So exercise your pup before travel to tire them out!

7. Is taking a dog on a long flight cruel?

   This is debated, but many people and organizations say it’s perfectly fine to give Fido the flight experience if handled properly. As long as any animal is healthy, secured safely, and gets breaks to use the bathroom and stretch, long flights probably aren’t too awful for them. But only you can assess your own pet’s temperament and needs. Sometimes it’s kinder to board them somewhere instead.