Everything You Need to Know About Airline-Approved Pet Carrier Sizes
If you’re planning to travel with your furry companion by air, one of the most important things to consider is making sure your pet carrier meets size requirements. Different airlines have varying regulations regarding pet carrier dimensions, so it’s crucial to do your research before booking your flight. In this article, I’ll discuss the typical size limits enforced by major carriers and provide tips to help you choose an appropriate carrier.
Standard Airline Pet Carrier Size Regulations
- Under-seat carrier: Most airlines require under-seat carriers, which fit under the seat in front of you, to be no more than 16 x 10 x 8 inches.
- Personal item carrier: If your pet is small enough, you can bring its carrier as a “personal item” that fits under the seat or at your feet. Limits are typically around 18 x 14 x 8 inches.
- Cargo carrier: For larger pets, special cargo carriers up to about 20 x 16 x 8 inches can be checked with the animal in the belly of the plane.
From my experience traveling with dogs, I recommend always getting a carrier that’s slightly smaller than the maximum allowances. This gives your pet some wiggle room and prevents the risk of it being refused at check-in. When in doubt, contact the airline directly for their specific rules. Some carriers may also be too large to fit properly under most standard airline seats.
Checking Specifications for Individual Airlines
While the sizes above cover most major carriers, it’s imperative to double check regulations for your specific airline(s). Policies can differ, so play it safe and verify carrier requirements well before your trip. For example, I recently flew with my miniature poodle on Allegiant Air, whose limit for personal item carriers is 17 x 12 x 9 inches – an inch shorter than many others. Had I not looked it up, we may have been turned away at the gate.
Consider Your Pet’s Comfort
In addition to airline rules, pick a carrier size that will keep your pet content during the journey. Too cramped and they’ll be stressed, but too roomy means more space to move around during potential turbulence. From my experience, it’s best to choose one just big enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Test this out at home before your flight. A cozy carrier often makes for a calmer pet.
Soft-Sided or Hard-Sided?
Most airline regulations don’t specify hard versus soft carriers. However, hard plastic may provide better security in case of rough handling by baggage handlers. On the other hand, breathable mesh or fabric carriers are no doubt comfier for pups. I prefer a soft carrier for short flights where my dog can see outside, but a more protective hard case for longer trips through cargo. Either way, properly pad and cushion the interior.
Additional Tips
- Bring proof of vaccinations, health certificate if required.
- Label carrier exterior clearly with your contact info.
- Consider including familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket.
- Practice going in and out of the carrier at home.
- Speak to your vet about calming aids if your pet gets anxious traveling.
To summarize, carefully select an airline-approved pet carrier that’s safely within size limits yet accommodating for your pet. Verify policies with your specific airlines, put comfort first, and prepare thoroughly. Doing so will help ensure a smoother flying experience for you and your furry co-pilot. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Airline Pet Carrier Size Requirements
| Carrier Type | Maximum Size | Maximum Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Hard-Sided | 28 x 20 x 11 inches | 20 pounds |
| Soft-Sided | 23 x 17 x 11 inches | 18 pounds |
| Small Dog | 16 x 12 x 8 inches | 8 pounds |
| Cat | 16 x 8 x 8 inches | 8 pounds |
| Birds | Small enough to fit under the seat | Varies by airline |
FAQ
- What size pet carrier is allowed on airlines? Most airlines approve carriers that are less than 20 inches long by 10 inches wide by 10 inches tall. Basically that’s around the size of a small suitcase.
- Can I bring a larger carrier if my pet is big? Sometimes if you have a large breed dog or cat, airlines will allow a slightly bigger carrier. It depends on the airline, but around 22x12x12 inches is usually the max even for big pets. Anyway, it’s best to check with the specific airline first before showing up with an oversized carrier.
- Do hard or soft carriers work better? Kinda either type is okay according to airline rules. A hard case may provide more protection for nervous pets. Then again, some pets feel more secure in a soft-sided carrier that’s like a cozy cave. I suppose it depends on your pet’s personal prefers. You know your furry friend best!
- What else do I need for airline travel with a pet? In addition to an approved carrier, the airline may require health and vaccination records for your pet. Some carriers also need you to purchase an extra airplane ticket for the animal. Appears it’s always a smart idea to double check all rules way before the trip.
- Is my pet allowed on my lap during the flight? Not usually, unfortunately. For safety and health reasons, most airlines require pets to stay in the carrier underneath the seat or in the cargo hold. I guess it’s to prevent injuries if turbulence occurs or allergies for other passengers, who knows. Maybe the airlines are just no fun!
- What if my pet is too big for the carrier standards? Then you may have to check your pet into the cargo hold. But is that a good idea? I’m not sure – the cargo hold can get pretty cold and noisy. Perhaps see if you can travel by car instead if Fido is an extra large fellow. Otherwise, you might ask the vet for a mild sedative to help your pet relax through the flight.
- Any other tips for traveling by air with a pet? Make sure to take your pet out for a bathroom break before the flight. Put familiar smells like a favorite toy or unwashed t-shirt in the carrier to help them feel more comfortable in the strange new place. And don’t forget extra poop bags and paper towels just in case of accidents! With a bit of preparation, even cats and dogs can handle a flying adventure.