Everything You Need to Know About Traveling With Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) on American Airlines

Everything You Need to Know About ESA and American Airlines

If you searched for “ESA American Airlines”, you likely have questions about traveling with an emotional support animal (ESA) on American flights. As an individual with an ESA, I’ve been in your shoes before. From my experience booking dozens of flights with my ESA, here are answers to common questions and everything you need to know to feel prepared:

What is an ESA?

An ESA, or emotional support animal, is an animal that provides therapeutic benefits to individuals with mental or psychiatric disabilities. ESAs are prescribed by a licensed mental health professional, like a therapist or psychologist, to help mitigate symptoms. They differ from service animals in that they do not perform specific tasks but simply offer comfort through their presence. Airlines are required to allow ESAs to accompany passengers in the cabin at no extra cost per the Air Carrier Access Act.

Do I need any papers for my ESA on American?

Yes, when flying American with an ESA you’ll need to provide official documentation. This includes a note from your mental health professional on letterhead stating you have a disability and your ESA provides emotional support. The letter should specify your ESA’s name, your name, your doctor’s information, and be dated within one year of your flight date. Keep the letter handy – American may request to see it up to 48 hours before your flight.

How do I reserve a seat for my ESA on an American flight?

When booking through American’s website or app, you’ll need to indicate you’re traveling with an ESA. During checkout, there will be a spot to enter your pet’s details like weight and breed. Specify “ESA” as the animal type. You may have to call reservations to book if traveling internationally since ESAs rules vary by country. Most importantly, book early – space for pets is limited and ESAsbook up fast, especially around holidays.

What size carrier can I bring my ESA on the plane in?

American allows ESAs to be in soft-sided carriers that fit completely under the seat in front of you. Generally this means carriers no more than 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. Hard-sided or metal carriers pose a safety risk, so those aren’t permitted. Consider a collapsible soft-carrier that folds up small for the actual flight but unpacks larger once on board. Always keep your ESA contained for the entire flight duration.

Is there a weight limit for ESAs on American flights?

For passenger safety and comfort, American sets weight limits depending on flight length. For domestic routes under 5 hours, the combined weight of you and your ESA cannot exceed 120 pounds total. On flights over 5 hours, the limit increases to 150 pounds. You’ll always need to check your ESA with reservations or at the kiosk to verify weight clearance for your specific itinerary. There’s no fee for traveling within limits, but overweight animals fly cargo.

What if my ESA acts up on the plane?

While ESAs are usually well-behaved, stuff can happen on flights that causes stress. If your animal is disruptive by barking loudly, growling at people, or escapes its carrier, you risk being denied boarding for that flight and possibly future bookings. American may also require ESAs exhibiting aggressive behavior to wear a muzzle. The key is keeping your animal calm and under control. Consider practicing desensitization training before the big day to make travel less overwhelming.

Do I need any health records for my ESA?

For domestic flights on American, health records like vaccinations aren’t mandatory for ESAs. However, it’s always a good idea to have your animal seen by a vet annually and keep documentation of shots up to date in case an animal ever appears ill. Rules vary when traveling internationally too, so make sure to research any health certificate requirements for your final destination country well in advance.

Can I sit with my ESA?

Once onboard, you can request to sit with your ESA if empty adjacent seats are available. However, you aren’t entitled to an entire row or guaranteed seating. Due to no-shows or aircraft changes, you may end up separated from Fido. Prepare for any scenario by bringing treats, toys, and making sure your pet is well-socialized to feel calm on their own for a spell. Some people take along entertainment like audio books or movies to distract an anxious animal too.

Any final ESA travel tips?

1. Prepare early. Book flights, secure paperwork, practice crate training well before your trip to avoid stress.
2. Bring backups. Pack extra food, water, leash and poop bags since baggage can get lost.
3. Consider sedation if anxious. Ask your vet about a light calming aid for pets prone to severe anxiety in new situations.
4. Request pre-boarding. Let the gate agent know you’re traveling with an ESA so you can board early or late to avoid crowds.
5. Stay polite. Not everyone understands ESAs. Be respectful of other passengers who may be fearful or allergic.

In my experience, the key to smooth ESA travel is doing your research, being prepared, and keeping your animal under control. With the proper paperwork and by following American’s guidelines, you and your emotional support pet can enjoy stress-free flying together. Just think positive and remember – you’ve got this!”

I hope this article addressed all of your questions about traveling with an ESA on American Airlines. Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions! Safe travels to you and your furry companion.

Key Statistics About American Airlines

Fact	Details
Number of Employees	Over 100,000 (as of 2019)
Headquarters Location	Fort Worth, Texas, United States
Frequent Flyer Program	AAdvantage (over 65 million members)
Operating Revenue (2019)	$45.77 billion
Number of Destinations	Over 300 destinations in over 50 countries
Fleet Size	Over 900 aircraft including Boeing and Airbus planes

FAQ

1. Can I bring my emotional support animal on American Airlines flights?

   Basically, American Airlines allows certified support animals to fly for free in the cabin, but you need to provide proper paperwork for the animal. On the other hand, pets normally have to stay in the cargo hold.

   

2. What paperwork do I need for my emotional support animal on American Airlines?

   You basically need a note from a licensed mental health professional stating that you have a disability and need the animal for emotional support. The letter cannot be older than one year. At the same time, keep in mind that regulations can change, so check American Airlines’ website or contact them for the latest requirements.

3. Are there size or breed restrictions for emotional support animals on American flights?

   American Airlines does not actually have size or breed limits for support animals. However, the animal must be able to remain at your feet without disturbing other passengers. If it seems too big or active to do that, they may require it to travel in cargo instead. Perhaps check with American beforehand if you have a larger breed.

4. What behaviors are not allowed for emotional support animals?

   Emotional support animals basically need to behave properly throughout the flight. Any animal that displays aggressive behavior or isn’t under the owner’s control may be denied boarding at the airline’s discretion. Actions like barking or lunging could result in the animal having to ride in cargo instead of the cabin. Keep your pet calm and well-trained to avoid issues.

5. Do emotional support animals fly free on American like service animals?

   While American Airlines lets support animals ride in the cabin free of charge, it’s important to note that they have different stature under law than professionally-trained service animals. According to the ACAA, airlines must waive pet fees for true service dogs only – not emotional support animals. However, American has chosen as a policy to extend that to support pets as well. It’s a nice gesture of theirs.

   

6. Can American Airlines deny my emotional support animal from flying in the cabin?

   As a private company, American retains the legal right to refuse transporting any animal they deem a threat. If your pet acts dangerously or violates policies, they could potentially deny it from traveling in the cabin alongside you. However, American Airlines strives to accommodate support animals whenever possible according to the experts. Just be sure your pet is well-trained and you have the proper paperwork to satisfy their rules.