What Size Pet Carrier is Approved by Airlines for Your Furry Companion’s Next Flight?
Traveling with pets on an airplane can cause worry for both you and your pet. But with the right preparation, you can make sure your furry friend flies in comfort and safety. Here are the guidelines for pet carrier size requirements from major US airlines so you know your pet will be accommodated.
airline regulations for pet carriers
- The carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand comfortably, turn around, and lay down.
- It must be escape-proof, ventilated on at least three sides, and allow the pet to be clearly seen from outside.
- Carriers cannot exceed a maximum size – usually around 18 inches long by 10 inches wide by 8 inches high.
From my experience traveling with pets, following these airline rules is key. I’ve faced situations where an oversized carrier put my dog in the cargo hold instead of the cabin. Make sure to measure your carrier and check with your specific airline beforehand. It’s not worth the risk of your pet being uncomfortably stored below.
Cabin vs Cargo – Where Will Your Pet Fly?
Whether your pet flies in the cabin with you or in the cargo hold depends on the size and type of animal. Pets under 20 lbs can usually fly in-cabin if they fit in the required carrier. Larger dogs and cats will fly in the animal cargo compartment, which airlines aim to keep between 45-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
While in the cargo hold allows more space, flying in-cabin is preferable for your pet’s comfort and safety. Above or below, having the right carrier eases stress levels all around. Here’s a real-life case: my friend’s cat was too worked up in an oversized carrier and had to travel in cargo instead. Maybe a properly-sized one could’ve calmed her enough for the cabin.
Popular Airline-Approved Carrier Options
Now that the size rules are clear, here are some top airline-compliant carriers to consider:
- Petmate Sky Kennel – At 17″ x 10.5″ x 11″, this soft-sided carrier provides good ventilation and line-of-sight visibility. It assembles easily for travel.
- Sleepypod Air – As one of the most rigid and sturdy options, the Air fends off squirming and scratching at 15″ x 9.5″ x 11″. Great if your furball gets anxious.
- Petsafe Solvit Pet & Carry On Kennel – With mesh views on four sides and bungee closure, this 16″ x 10″ x 11″ carrier keeps pets safely enclosed and lets you peek in.
- Aviation Urban Travel Pet Carrier – Smaller at 13″ x 8″ x 9″, the Urban offers a cozy soft compartment and fold-down food/water bowls for shorter flights.
From my experience, the more rigid and securely enclosing the carrier, the calmer your pet will likely be for takeoff and landing. But base your decision on your pet’s personality – some prefer soft-sided flexibility too. Test out carriers at home before flying day.
Prep Your Pet (and You!) for Takeoff
Akin to practicing for exams, doing mock flights with your pet is key. Get them used to being in the carrier around noises like a TV. Give treats and praise to build positive associations. Gradually increase the amount of time spent in there. Leading up to travel days, keep to your pet’s normal routine as much as you bas. It helps reduce stress, yo.
You’ll want anti-anxiety aids too, like calming treats, pheromone sprays, or medication from your vet. Extra water before the flight prevents dehydration from air pressure changes. Obviously, make sure identification tags are on your pet in case of an emergency. It’s basically an safety precaution, fam.
Does all this prep seem like a lot? It may sound kinda extra, but ensures comfortable flying for everyone involved. So devote some time, dawg – your pet will thank you! With the right precautions, even cats and dogs can enjoy travels more smoothly.
So in Summary…
To recap the key tips:
– Check size limits for in-cabin carriers – usually under 18″ long by 10″ wide by 8″ high
– Cabin travel is preferable for pets under 20 lbs if the carrier fits guidelines
– Consider rigid, securely enclosing carriers like Petmate Sky Kennel or Sleepypod Air
– Prep your pet with practice flights, calming aids, and normal routine maintenance
– Verify your pet is safely ID tagged in case of any issues
With the stunning new options available, flying with pets has never been easier when you follow airline policies. Still unsure? Don’t hesitate to ask the experts at your vet’s office or local pet store. Their advice could make the difference between a horrible situation or a pleasant experience for you and your loyal pup. With careful prep and the right carrier size, comforting miles in the skies await!
Airline Approved Pet Carriers Sizes
| Carrier Size | Dimensions | Weight Limit | Airline Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under-seat carrier | Maximum size to fit completely under seat: up to 18″ x 14″ x 8″ | Maximum weight 20 lbs | Must fit completely under seat with no overflow. Most airlines allow. |
| Cabin carrier | Maximum size: up to 20″ x 16″ x 9″ | Maximum weight: up to 40 lbs | Fits in cabin but not under seat. Must be able to stand without tipping over. Most airlines allow. |
| Checked carrier | No size limit but usually 24″ – 30″ lengths | Maximum weight: Up to 100 lbs | Checked as baggage. Size and weight restrictions may vary by airline. |
| Soft-sided carrier | Sized to fit under seat or as cabin carrier. | Weight limit depends on size. | More flexible than hard-sided. Must be able to close securely. |
| Collapsible carrier | Collapses for storage but expands for travel. | Weight limit depends on size when expanded. | Good space-saving option. Must be able to lock securely in expanded form. |
FAQ
- What size pet carrier is allowed on airlines?
Most major airlines in the United States approve pet carriers that are no larger than roughly 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches in size. This is about the dimensions of a typical small dog crate. Carriers much bigger than this generally won’t fit safely under an airplane seat.
- Are there size limits for different types of pets?
Indeed, pet sizes do affect carrier size rules. For cats and small dogs, the size mentioned above should work fine. Medium dogs may require a somewhat bigger carrier no larger than 20x18x12 inches. Do check with your specific airline too, as rules occasionally change. Larger dogs should not travel as cargo in any case.
- Do soft-sided carriers work as well as hard plastic ones?
Both soft-sided and hard plastic carriers are okay to bring on planes according to most airlines. Soft-sided ones may be a bit easier to pack since they squish down smaller. But hard plastic offers better impact protection for furry passengers in case baggages gets tossed around a bit. Either choice is suitable so long as it fits under the seat.
- What else do I need to consider when picking a carrier?
Other important factors include making sure there are openings for adequate ventilation, perhaps mesh windows or sizable gaps. Also check that latches securely close and cannot accidentally come undone mid-flight. Comfort for your pet matters too – enough space to stand and turn around without feeling cramped. And of course, your carrier needs identification on the outside in case it is misplaced.
- Are there any carrier restrictions during summer months?
Actually, some airlines do impose tighter regulations on pet carrier sizes throughout warmer seasons. Since luggage compartments often lack temperature control, there is a higher risk of overheating for confined animals in the summer. The usual maximum dimensions may shrink to around 16x10x12 inches between June and September. Always confirm rules are the same before your specific travel dates. Your pet’s well-being is priority number one.
- What if my pet is really small – does the size still matter?
For tiny pets like hamsters or small birds, airlines will sometimes allow them to remain in their regular cage rather than transferring to a travel carrier. Nevertheless, the container must still fit under the seat as usual or in the tight overhead bins. It’s always wisest to get dimensions pre-approved by your airline if there is any doubt. Ultimately, officials have final say over what is deemed safe during travel by air.
- Are there special rules for emotional support animals?
Service animals have few restrictions if any, and one travels along as needed. However, support animals also called comfort pets merely provide general well-being rather than specific tasks. Airlines may view these pets differently, requiring confinement in a carrier under the seat as other pets. Of course, documentation from a medical provider is always vital too for any animal claiming special status. Standards can seem vague unfortunately, so thorough research is advised.
- What happens if my carrier is too large at the airport?
If your pet container exceeds airline limits upon arrival, staff may not let you board with the animal uncontained. At that point, you’d have no good options besides trying to quickly find an approved carrier substitute before departure. Otherwise, the pet would have to be transported separately via cargo hold which is usually a last resort option. To avoid stresses and charges, double check dimensions in advance and always plan for Airline Approved sizes no matter which service you end up using.