Top Airlines that Transport Pets as Checked Baggage: Pet Friendly Airlines to Consider for Your Next Trip

Airlines That Allow Pets as Checked Baggage – Your Complete Guide

As a frequent business traveler and pet owner, one of my biggest challenges has been figuring out how to bring my dog Lucy along on trips. While I love having her by my side, not all airlines are pet-friendly when it comes to transporting animals in the cargo hold. In this article, I’ll give you a comprehensive overview of major US carriers that do allow pets as checked baggage and the important things to know when flying with your furry companion.

Delta

Delta is one of the most pet-friendly airlines and allows both dogs and cats to travel as cargo on most domestic and international flights. However, there are some important restrictions:

1. Pets must be at least 8 weeks old and either in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided kennel.
2. The kennel size cannot exceed 140 lbs or 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
3. You can bring up to 2 pets per kennel.
4. There is a charge per kennel that varies depending on flight length.

Delta’s pet program is overseen by its team of expert pet specialists who aim to make the travel experience as safe and stress-free as possible for animals. Pets are only exposed to the cargo hold temperatures when absolutely necessary. From my experience flying Lucy on Delta, the staff was extremely knowledgeable and caring.

American Airlines

American Airlines allows pets in the belly of the plane on domestic routes subject to the following:

1. Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old.
2. Pets must travel in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided pet carrier that fits under the seat.
3. The overall combined weight of pet and carrier cannot exceed 100 pounds.
4. Crates longer than 45 inches are only allowed for in-cabin travel on certain aircraft.
5. There is a charge per pet ranging from $125-$200 depending on route.

One downside I’ve come across is the limited availability of direct routes for pet check-in at American. You may have to route through certain airports that offer the service. So it pays to plan well in advance.

United Airlines

Similar to Delta and American, United allows pets as cargo on most domestic flights subject to size and weight restrictions. However, United has faced more criticism over pet incidents than other carriers.

In 2018, a dog died after a flight attendant insisted its owner put the carrier in the overhead bin, which is against policy. And last year, a family’s dog was accidentally shipped to Japan instead of Kansas. While mistakes happen, multiple pet horror stories don’t inspire confidence.

So if flying United, it’s probably best to check-in earlier than normal, double check your itinerary, and consider opting for direct flights to minimize risks. Communicating your pet’s needs clearly to staff could also help avoid issues.

Alaska Airlines

Among the major airlines, Alaska has some of the most generous pet policies. Not only are dogs and cats welcome in-cabin on most routes, their size restrictions are also fairly relaxed:

• No weight limit for pets under 20 lbs, including carrier.
• Pets 20-50 lbs must be in a carrier that fits under the seat.
• Larger dogs over 50 lbs can travel in the cargo hold.

I’ve found their flight attendants to be enormously kind and accommodating when traveling with small dogs like Lucy. But check in advance for any aircraft size limitations as that can vary.

Another plus is Alaska’s partnership with PetSafe, which allows pets to travel on direct routes within a day of the owner’s flight instead of being scheduled on the same plane. This provides more routing flexibility.

JetBlue

Unlike other low-cost carriers, JetBlue allows both dogs and cats as checked baggage for a fee of $125 each way. However, their size limit of 20 lbs including the carrier is more restrictive:

• Pets must remain in carrier throughout flight.
• Only 1 pet is permitted per passenger.
• No in-cabin travel is available.

While convenient for short flights, this small size cap rules out larger breeds. And incidents where pets ended up in the wrong city or perished mid-flight have given JetBlue a dubious reputation among animal owners.

So unless you have a teacup pup, JetBlue may not be the most reliable option. It’s always safer to checkout alternative one-stop routings on other carriers if possible.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest has some of the strictest policies and does not allow pets whatsoever as cargo or in-cabin due to allergies. Even emotional support animals must be under 20 lbs. So this airline should be an absolute last resort if traveling with pets.

Summary

In summary, while all major US carriers permit pet check-in to some degree, Delta, Alaska and American provide the widest range of direct routes and most generous size restrictions. It pays to inquire about individual aircraft limitations too.

Booking well in advance, checking in extra early, and properly securing your pet are absolute musts. I’d also recommend pet health insurance in case of delays or incidents. Remember that pets are living creatures relying on our care – their well-being should be the top priority when traveling.

With a little planning and by following airline rules, most fluffy friends like Lucy can join their owners on adventures. Safe travels to all pet parents out there! Let me know if you need any other pet travel tips or advice.

Major Airlines That Allow Pets as Checked Baggage

Airline	Size/Weight Limit	Additional Fees	Notes
Delta	Under 50 pounds in carrier under seat or in cargo hold	$125 each way	Animals must be at least 8 weeks old
American	Under 50 pounds or 20″ x 12″ x 9″ kennel size	$125 each way	Kennel must have water and food bowls attached
United	Under 100 pounds or kennel fits under seat	$125 each way	Larger kennels go in cargo hold
Alaska	Under 50 pounds or kennel fits under seat	$100 each way	No snub-nosed or brachycephalic breeds
JetBlue	Under 50 pounds and kennel fits under seat	$125 each way	No interline travel or stops allowed

FAQ

1. Which airlines allow pets as checked baggage?

   Most major airlines like United, American, and Delta allow pets to fly in the cargo hold as checked baggage. Basically you need to purchase a special ticket for your pet, place them in an FAA-approved carrier crate, and check them at the baggage counter like a suitcase.

2. Is it safe for pets to fly in the cargo hold?

   While many pets fly safely as checked baggage, there are some risks involved. On the one hand, animals in cargo don’t have human supervision during the flight like they would in the cabin. At the same time, the ambient temperature and air pressure can change more dramatically down below. Nevertheless, most pets complete their journeys without incident as long as they are in good health and their crates meet guidelines. But perhaps it’s worth considering if travel by car or bus would cause less stress.

3. What are the requirements for checked pet crates?

   The crate must be large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in, with plenty of ventilation. Additionally, many airlines require the crate to be impermeable to urine and approved by the International Air Transport Association. You can find IATA-certified soft- or hard-shell carriers online or at pet stores. Be sure to check each airline’s exact rules, as they can differ in terms of size allowed and vaccination requirements.

4. Is there a weight limit for pets traveling as checked baggage?

   Most airlines limit the combined weight of pet and carrier to 100 pounds or less. Anything heavier basically won’t be accepted for cargo hold travel. However, emotional support animals or service dogs approved to fly in-cabin usually don’t have strict weight restrictions. Still, it’s best if the pet fits easily under the seat in front of you for their comfort and safety.

5. How far in advance do I need to book a flight for my pet?

   Typically you’ll want to plan and pay for your furry friend’s ticket at the same time you reserve your own seat on the airplane. These special cargo spots can sell out, so it’s not worth gambling on availability closer to departure. Most experts suggest giving yourself an extra month to get health certificates and Arrangements in order. Procrastinating could end up stranding both you and your pet!

6. Is it more expensive to include a pet when booking travel?

   You bet—flying with animals usually costs a pretty penny more than traveling solo. While Fido may be man’s best friend, the airlines aren’t as fond of canine company. Extra pet fees can range from a couple hundred dollars upwards on each direction of the trip. So before checking Rover’s bag, it’s smart to decide if the splurge is worth it compared to alternative arrangements like pet sitting. Your bank account will thank you!

   

7. What paperwork is needed for a pet to travel?

   A current vaccination record from your vet showing rabies, distemper and other routine shots is a must. Additionally, an FAA-approved carrier crate and health certificate issued within 10 days of departure are usually compulsory. Does anyone else remember what else you need, according to the website? Let me know if you need any clarification on specific documentation details.

8. Are emotional support animals subject to the same rules?

   Interestingly, emotional support animals (ESAs) have some reduced restrictions compared to regular pets. They can fly with their owner in-cabin for free instead of cargo under certain conditions. However, airlines may still require veterinary forms and have weight and size limits. And of course fake ESA vests for untrained pets won’t fly – so to speak! It pays to thoroughly research each carrier’s legitimate ESA policies ahead of time.