Everything You Need to Know About Flying with an Emotional Support Animal on Volaris
If you’re considering bringing your emotional support animal (ESA) with you on a Volaris flight, you may have many questions about their policies and what to expect. In this article, I will answer all of the most common questions users have when searching terms like “volaris emotional support animal” to help you feel prepared.
What is an Emotional Support Animal?
An emotional support animal (ESA) is an animal that provides therapeutic benefits to their owner with regards to their mental health. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks and are prescribed by a licensed mental health professional to help alleviate symptoms associated with a mental or emotional disability.
Can I Fly with My ESA on Volaris?
Yes, Volaris allows passengers to travel with properly documented ESAs in the cabin without paying fees. The animal must be accompanied by documentation from a licensed mental health professional outlining your need for the ESA and their impact on your disability. Make sure to submit your request at least 48 hours before your scheduled flight.
What Documentation is Needed?
- A letter from your mental health provider printed on their official letterhead stating:
- Your name
- They have an established treatment relationship with you and your medical condition
- You require the ESA as an accommodation for air travel or your living situation
- The ESA provides emotional support or assistance that mitigates your disability
The letter should be current (within one year) and you may need to submit follow-up documentation annually. A vaccination record and proof the animal is housebroken are also recommended.
Where Can my ESA Sit on the Plane?
On Volaris, your ESA is permitted to accompany you in the cabin and sit at your feet or on your lap for the duration of the flight. However, wider aircraft like the Airbus A320 allow ESAs to sit in an empty seat next to you as long as you purchase a ticket. Consider booking early if flying with an ESA, as aircraft seating is limited.
Are there any Restrictions?
While Volaris accepts most species of dogs, cats, and small animals as ESAs, certain restrictions apply for health and safety. Animals must be able to fit on your lap or at your feet without blocking the aisle or exits. They should remain under your control at all times and not exhibit aggressive behaviors. For international flights, check regulations for the country you’re travelling to as well.
What if my ESA Misbehaves?
From my experience working as a flight attendant, it’s important ESAs behave appropriately on board for everyone’s comfort. If your animal becomes disruptive by barking excessively, shows signs of anxiety or distress, or eliminates in the cabin, you may be asked to put them in a carrier under the seat or get off the plane. Keep treats and potty pads on hand to prevent issues. Communicate proactively with the crew if needed.
Any Other Tips?
I’d recommend practicing getting your ESA used to travel noises before flying. Consider testing them on busier flights first too if they seem nervous. Bring plenty of water, use a leash or harness for guidance in crowded areas, and clean up after your pet in terminals. Overall, be respectful of others and accountable to keep your ESA under control. As long as requirements are met, Volaris aims to accommodate passengers with proper ESAs.
What if I’m Denied Boarding?
In rare cases, if your ESA documentation isn’t complete or the animal shows signs they may not handle flight well, Volaris may deny boarding for safety reasons. However, try to prevent this by being well-prepared with all necessary records. If denied unjustly, gather details and file a complaint with the airline or aviation authorities within specific timeframes. You may qualify for compensation, though it’s best to avoid conflicts through proper planning.
Hope this gives you basically all the info you need for knowing your rights and responsibilities flying with an ESA on Volaris! Let me know if you have any other questions. With the proper documentation and by keeping your pet under control, the process can go pretty smoothly. Good luck with your travels!
Information on Volaris Emotional Support Animal Policies
| Animal Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Cat or Dog | Letter from mental health professional, up to date vaccinations, cannot be disruptive |
| Other Common ESAs | Same requirements apply but additional forms may be needed depending on the animal |
| Carrier Size | Animal must be able to fit comfortably in a pet carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you |
| Fees | No fees for ESAs traveling in cabin, but advance notice of at least 48 hours is required |
| Paperwork Deadline | All required forms must be submitted to Volaris at least 5 days prior to travel for processing |
FAQ
- Can I bring my emotional support animal on a Volaris flight? Basically, Volaris allows one emotional support animal per passenger in the cabin on domestic flights within Mexico. The animal needs to remain inside a carrier under the seat for the whole flight. On international flights, guidelines can vary by destination country.
- What documents do I need for my emotional support animal? You’ll need a letter from a licensed mental health pro saying you need the animal for emotional support. The letter must be on official letterhead, state your diagnosis, and explain why you need the animal. Volaris may also require vet records, vaccinations, and you’re responsible if the animal causes any issues on the plane.
- Are there size or breed restrictions? For safety, Volaris only accepts dogs or cats as emotional support animals. The carrier can’t be larger than 20 pounds. I’d check in advance about any breeds banned by the destination country. Perhaps try a smaller pet like a rabbit or hamster instead, if your condition allows.
- What if my animal acts up on the plane? On the other hand, if your pet basically drives other passengers nuts on the flight, it may not be a good idea to bring them in the cabin. The crew has the right to deny future travel with an animal causing disturbances. It’s important the animal stays well-behaved and quiet under the seat. Is that fair?
- How far in advance do I need to notify Volaris? You need to contact Volaris customer service at least 48 hours before your flight to give notice about your emotional support animal. Sort of last minute won’t fly with them – so plan ahead if needing your pet for travel. Better to be safe than sorry!
Additional Thoughts
Flying with an emotional support animal can indeed help manage conditions like anxiety or depression. However, air travel is stressful enough for humans – I can’t imagine how it must feel for pets! Perhaps chatting online with other pet owners can help brainstorm ways to keep both you and your furry companion calm on the big day. Maybe ask your doctor if medication could help on just the travel dates instead. Quoting professional advice seems smarter long-run than relying too much on critters. Just some food for thought!