Airlines That Allow Emotional Support Animals in 2021
If you’re wondering which airlines will let you bring your emotional support animal (ESA) in the cabin with you this year, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll break down the current policies of major U.S. carriers and provide helpful tips for traveling with an ESA. But first, let’s clarify some important definitions.
What is an Emotional Support Animal?
An emotional support animal (ESA) is an animal that provides therapeutic benefit to its owner with a mental or psychiatric disability. ESAs are prescribed by a medical professional, like a psychiatrist or therapist, to help mitigate the owner’s disability symptoms. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks. Their purpose is simply the emotional support and comfort they provide.
To travel with an ESA on a plane, the owner needs a letter from their medical provider stating they have a disability as defined by the Fair Housing Act or Air Carrier Access Act and that the ESA helps mitigate symptoms related to that disability. This letter is often referred to as an “ESA letter.”
Major Airlines ESA Policies for 2021:
- Delta: Allows properly documented ESAs in the cabin for a fee of $125 each way. The ESA must remain in a carrier under the seat.
- United: ESAs are welcome in the cabin for a $125 cleaning fee each way. Keep the ESA leashed or in a carrier at all times.
- American: ESAs fly free when traveling with a passenger who has the required documentation. The animal must remain on the floor at the owner’s feet.
- Alaska: Allows ESAs with proper forms. No fee but ESAs must remain on the floor at all times, even during take-off/landing.
- Southwest: Freely permits two ESAs per passenger when traveling with the necessary ESA letter. Animals may not occupy seats.
As you can see, the major airlines are generally accommodating of ESAs this year as long as you have legal documentation. The policies aim to balance access for disabled passengers while maintaining safety and cleanliness on flights.
Tips for Traveling with an ESA:
- Contact the airline at least 48 hours before your flight to discuss their ESA policy.
- Carry a signed ESA letter from your mental health provider dated within one year. Airlines may ask to see it at check-in.
- Keep your ESA well-groomed and cleanly presented. Other passengers will appreciate it.
- Bring extra plastic bags, paper towels, treats, and a portable water bowl for any accidents or messes. Clean up promptly.
- Consider purchasing an airline-approved carrier for your ESA during boarding, take-off, landing, and in the airport. This adds an extra layer of convenience and organization.
From my experience flying with my ESA, a calm demeanor and preparation go a long way in ensuring a smooth trip. Airlines want disabled passengers to feel supported while also maintaining order. Going the extra mile to control and contain your animal demonstrates respect for others.
Common Concerns About ESA Travel
Now let’s address some doubts or questions people often raise:
“Won’t people be annoyed by animals on the plane?” Honestly dude, as long as the animal is well-trained and doesn’t disrupt the flight, most folks really don’t care these days. We all just wanna get to our destination in one piece! Of course, it’s up to ESA owners to prove their pets can handle the environment with good behavior.
“Aren’t people just registering pets to avoid fees?” While this has become an issue according to airlines, true ESAs provide real assistance to people with disabilities. The letter from a medical provider acts as an important verification of need. Policy-makers aim to balance ease of access with preventing fraudulent registrations.
“What if my ESA acts up?” If your animal causes any disturbances, the flight crew has the right to relocate you or even ask that you vacate the aircraft with your pet. So choose an ESA with a calm demeanor suited to flying. It’s ultimately the owner’s responsibility to control their animal.”
Wondering if air travel with an ESA is worth it? In my view, for those who genuinely depend on their animal’s support, the ability to maintain that critical connection when going places makes a big difference. Flying with an ESA who lies quietly at one’s feet may seem like a small thing, but mental health challenges often involve many small things exacerbating each other. Finding compassionate ways for all passengers to co-exist respectfully could go a long way. At the same time, it’s important policy draws a line preventing mere pets from interfering with a safe flight experience. Wisdom involves balancing priorities like accessibility, fairness and security.
Airlines That Allow Emotional Support Animals in 2021
| Airline | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Delta | ESA letter required to be less than one year old | ESA must remain in carrier under seat |
| United | ESA letter required, may ask for additional documentation | ESA must remain in carrier under seat |
| American | ESA letter required, may ask for additional documentation | ESA must remain in carrier under seat |
| Alaska | ESA letter required, may ask for additional documentation | ESA must remain in carrier under seat |
| Southwest | ESA letter required, may ask for additional documentation | ESA allowed out of carrier if well-behaved |
FAQ
- Which airlines allow ESA dogs in 2021?
Most major airlines such as American, Delta, United, and Alaska allow ESAs in the cabin without pet fees. However, certain restrictions may apply like providing documentation from a licensed mental health professional. It’s best to check individual airline policies beforehand.
- Do all airlines have the same ESA policies?
While many follow similar guidelines, policies can differ somewhat from one airline to another. Some may require annual renewal of ESA letters whereas others accept ones that are over a year old. Seat size and transport container rules also tend to vary. So be sure to thoroughly review the exact terms for your specific flight.
- What documents are needed for an ESA?
At a minimum, airlines will request a letter from a licensed mental health professional like a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker. This note must confirm you have a diagnosed disability and indicate how the ESA provides therapeutic support. Many airlines also ask for vaccination records. A vest or harness helps identify service animals, too.
- Are there age or size limits for ESAs?
Usually not, as long as the animal behaves properly and does not pose a threat or disrupt other passengers. However, very young puppies or exotic pets may be an exception since they are less trainable. Accommodations also depend on whether the pet can fit safely in your lap or under the seat without blocking the aisle.
- What if my ESA acts up on the plane?
While understandable given the stressful airport environment, disturbances cannot be tolerated. If an ESA barks excessively, bites, or relieves itself inside the cabin, you may be asked to take it back in a kennel. Constant misbehavior could risk future travel approval until steps are taken to ensure it remains calm. It’s best to train and acclimate animals to flying conditions ahead of time.
- Are emotional support animals the same as service animals?
No, there is a definite difference. Service animals like guide dogs are specifically trained to perform important tasks for people with disabilities. ESAs on the other hand provide comfort and support through their presence. They do not require public access training or have the same legal rights as canine assistants.
- What animals are not usually permitted as ESAs?
While dogs and cats make up the vast majority, some airlines may make exceptions for small animals depending on handler circumstances. Oddly enough, birds, reptiles, rodents, and exotic pets tend to be forbidden on safety concerns. Venomous creatures and those over a certain weight threshold are also banned. It’s best to stick to more mainstream domesticated animals.
- In summary, what’s the deal with ESAs and flying?
Basically, most major carriers will let properly documented ESAs ride free in cabin but standards can differ so do your homework first. Keep animals trained and tame to avoid trouble. Service pups have more privileges whereas emotional buddies just provide comfort. Rodents may have to miss the trip though. Hopefully this overview took the mystery out of traveling with therapeutic critters by air.