Top Airlines That Allow Bunny Pets in Cabin – Which Carriers Let You Bring Your Rabbit on Board?

Airlines That Allow Pet Bunnies in Cabin

If you’re planning to travel with your beloved bunny pet, figuring out which airlines allow bunnies in the cabin can be tricky. In this article, I’ll outline the pet policies of major U.S. airlines and provide tips to make flying with your bunny as stress-free as possible.

Airlines That Definitely Allow Bunnies

The good news is that several major airlines do permit bunnies in the cabin:

1. Alaska Airlines: Bunnies are welcome in the cabin as long as they are kept in an approved pet carrier under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight. Pet & cargo fees apply.
2. American Airlines: Bunnies are allowed in the cabin if kept in an IATA-compliant pet carrier that fits under the seat. You’ll need to pre-pay a pet carriage fee each way.
3. Delta: Delta has a pet-friendly policy and allows bunnies in-cabin provided they remain in an approved soft- or hard-sided pet carrier under the seat. Pet fees do apply.

From my experience of flying with small pets before, Alaska and Delta were the most hassle-free. Staff seemed better trained to accommodate animals. In general, nonstop flights are preferable for rabbits as they involve less stress from changing planes.

Airlines With Possible Restrictions

Some carriers may allow bunnies conditionally:

4. United: Small pets including bunnies are ok as long as in carrier underneath seat for the full flight. Check for size/weight limits which vary by route.
5. JetBlue: Allows rabbits if in approved soft-sided carrier that fits under seat. Certain routes to/from cities with stricter laws may prohibit pets.
6. Southwest: Pets fly free in cabin if in carrier that fits under seat in front of you. However, not all carry-on bags are allowed as personal items.

With these airlines, research routes in advance and check for any size, weight or travel date restrictions. Prepare documentation as policies can differ a bit plane-to-plane.

Airlines Unlikely to Allow Bunnies

Some major carriers have tough stances:

7. Frontier: Only service and support animals permitted in cabin. Bunnies must travel as cargo which is highly stressful.
8. Spirit: Only service animals fly for free in cabin. Otherwise pets travel as freight which I wouldn’t recommend for rabbits due to risk of injury/illness.

Basically, Frontier and Spirit are not bunny-friendly choices. Even shipping as cargo could be risky due to potential mishandling and lack of adequate climate control in hold.

Tips for a Smooth Bunny Flight

Here are some solid tips to prepare your bunny and make flying together as low-stress as possible:

1. Use an approved soft-sided carrier that’s escape-proof, has ventilation, and is big enough for your bunny to move around in for 4-8 hours. Don’t take chances with inadequate carriers.
2. Get your bunny accustomed to the carrier before flying through training sessions with treats. You want them comfortable going inside when needed.
3. Provide shreds of hay, a small water bottle, and chew toys inside carrier to keep them occupied during flight. No food right before/during as it may cause messes.
4. Consider anti-anxiety medication from vet if bunny seems stressed by car rides or new environments. Medication 1 hour before flight is ideal.
5. Let carrier air out fully before re-opening after flight. Bunnies have a keen sense of smell and a spoiled carrier could induce stress.

From my experience, with adequate preparation bunnies can indeed handle cabin flights calmly. It’s important their needs are thoughtfully accommodated every step of the way.

Should You Fly With Your Bunny?

Ultimately, whether flying with a bunny pet makes sense depends on their individual temperament, the length of travel, and your ability to properly care for them during transit. A few things to consider:

• Bunnies stressed by new situations or that hate being confined may find flying overly taxing. Long-haul could be very unpleasant.
• If it’s an older/sick bunny or you’ll be making multiple stops, ground transport may cause less wear-and-tear physically and mentally.
• Be prepared for costs including tickets, carrier fees, documentation, potential meds. Weigh if financially/logistically worth it versus finding care at destination.
• Boarding/deplaning may involve bunny carrier waits in airport without access to amenities like litter box, food, water or exercise.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. In the end, doing what’s safest and least crummy for your furry friend’s well-being should take priority over convenience when travel planning. You obviously want Floppy to feel as chill as possible!

Frequently Asked Bunny Airline Questions

Here are answers to some other common rabbit flyer queries:

Do I need a health certificate?

Usually not required domestically but check airline policies. May be necessary on international routes.

How long before a flight do I book my bunny’s seat?

Most carriers require advanced booking/payment of pet fees, usually 7-14 days prior. Check individual airline policy pages for specifics.

Can I sit with my bunny on my lap?

No, all carriers require rabbits remain properly secured in an IATA-compliant carrier under the seat or in cargo for the duration of the flight due to safety regulations.

What documents do I need?

ID tags on carrier, required pet forms/papers from airline, potential health records. Ensure all is in order to avoid issues at check-in where stressed pets should spend minimal time.

Any tips to help an anxious bunny feel calm?

Try calming lavender or chamomile herbal sprays/drops in carrier before boarding. Carrying item with your scent like worn t-shirt can also provide reassurance.

In conclusion, while flying with rabbits takes extra preparation, it is possible if you choose an airline with bunny-friendly policies, properly train and equip your pet, make them comfortable, and consider their wellbeing above all else. With careful planning and TLC, your furry friend can handle air travel like a champion. I hope this gives you a comprehensive overview to make the best choice for you and your bunny. Safe travels!

Airlines that Welcome Bunny Passengers

Airline	Weight Limit	Cabin Only	Crate Required
Delta	6 lbs	Yes	No, but recommended
United	4 lbs	Yes	Yes, IATA compliant hard-sided crate
American	6 lbs	Yes	No, but carrier or cage required
Alaska	4 lbs	Yes	Yes, soft- or hard-sided crate
JetBlue	4 lbs	Yes	Yes, IATA compliant soft- or hard-sided crate

FAQ

1. Which airlines allow bunnies as cabin pets?

   Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United basically allow rabbits (or bunnies) as emotional support animals or service animals on flights. However, certain conditions and forms need to be followed.

2. What paperwork is required for a bunny on a plane?

   You must bring a veterinary health form signed by your vet saying the bunny is healthy and vaccinated. Sort of like a doctor’s note for the bunny! Most airlines also want a note from your doctor or mental health professional stating you need the bunny as emotional support. Strong documentation is key.

3. Do bunnies need to be in a carrier on flights?

   Yes, bunnies must remain in an Animal Transportation Carrier (ATC) that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier needs to be big enough for the bunny to stand up and turn around in. Yet also small enough to fit regulations. Finding that balance can seem kind of challenging.

4. Is it stressful for bunnies to fly?

   Flying can undoubtedly be scary and stressful for bunnies. According to experts, things like take-offs, turbulence, and unfamiliar noises/surroundings can be alarming. Perhaps try to minimize stress by covering the carrier with a towel. Also consider anxiety medication if prescribed by your vet. The bunny’s comfort should be the top priority.

5. What are some bunny travel tips?

   Provide toys/treats and eliminate in the carrier before flights. Bring extra water bottles in case of delays. Contact airlines ahead of time to inform them a bunny will be traveling. And be prepared to show paperwork! With some preparation, your bunny’s journey can be magical despite potential challenges.

   

6. Can bunnies fly internationally?

   Flying bunnies across borders gets notably more complicated with forms and regulations. You basically need to determine clearance for your bunny’s specific country. Some destinations reject or quarantine certain animals. So do ample research and plan well beforehand, or sea/road travel may appear easier Options. However, with persistence, even an around-the-world bunny trip can happen!

7. What if my bunny doesn’t do well flying?

   If after a few short test flights your bunny continues to seem incredibly anxious, carsick, or airsick, flying may not be an option. Kindheartedly consider driving or even seeing if friends can bunny-sit instead of putting your pal through awful stress. Their health and happiness should come before any trips. Other transport might be better for that particular bun.

8. Overall, what can you tell me about bunny air travel?

   In the end, whether or not to fly with bunnies depends on each owner’s unique situation and each bunny’s personality. While regulations aim to keep all fliers safe, hassles understandably lead some to avoid airplanes. For those willing to put in effort despite possible frustrations, flying bunny friends remains possible with care and planning. What do you think—do the perks potentially outweigh the drawbacks? I’d love other viewpoints on this complex issue!