Airlines That Allow Dogs as Travel Companions
Whether you’re moving cross-country or going on a family vacation, taking your furry friend along can make the trip more enjoyable. If you’ll be traveling by air, finding an airline that accepts dogs is an important first step. In this article, I’ll cover the major U.S. carriers and their pet policies to help you determine the best option for your upcoming itinerary.
Large Airlines with Pet-Friendly Cabins
The three biggest airlines in the U.S.—American, Delta, and United—all allow dogs to fly in the cabin on certain routes. Here are the basics of each carrier’s pet policy:
- American: Small or medium dogs can travel in-cabin in their carrier underneath the seat in front of you. There is a $125 charge each way and dogs must remain in the carrier the entire flight. Larger dogs must go in the cargo hold.
- Delta: Small or medium dogs can travel in an International Animal Transportation Association (IATA)-approved soft-sided kennel under the seat. There is a $125 fee per flight. Dogs must remain in their carrier at all times.
- United: Small or medium dogs can travel in-cabin if their carrier fits under the seat. There is a $125 fee per flight. Dogs must stay in their carrier and the carrier must remain upright on the floor for takeoff and landing.
From my experience, all three of these carriers are fairly pet-friendly as long as you follow their policies. The fees are consistent across the board too. The main differences come down to very minor details like whether soft-sided or hard-sided kennels are allowed.
Other National Carriers Accepting Dogs
A few other U.S. airlines allow dogs in certain circumstances:
- Alaska: Small or medium dogs can fly in-cabin from the continental U.S. to Hawaii in a pet carrier. There is a $125 fee.
- JetBlue: Dogs and cats under 20 pounds can travel in-cabin in a carrier. There is a $125 fee one-way. No dogs or cats over 20 pounds are allowed.
- Southwest: Dogs and cats under 20 pounds and in an FAA-approved carrier can travel in-cabin on any flight with no fee (other than for oversized pet carriers).
Alaska, JetBlue, and Southwest tend to have slightly stricter policies than the larger carriers. For example, JetBlue and Southwest have maximum weight limits. And Alaska only allows dogs flying within certain regions. So double check details if considering these as options.
International or Low-Cost Carriers
Some international and low-cost carriers in the U.S. also permit pets on flights:
- British Airways: Small dogs and cats under 12.5kg and in a suitable crate can travel in-cabin on transatlantic flights for a $150 fee. Larger pets go in cargo.
- Virgin Atlantic: Dogs and cats under 15kg and in a suitable soft-sided kennel can fly in-cabin on transatlantic routes for a $150 fee. Heavier pets fly in cargo.
- Frontier: In-cabin pets under 15 pounds are allowed for a fee that varies by route. Pets must remain in a carrier under the seat during flight.
- Spirit: Pets under 20 pounds can travel in-cabin for a $110 fee. Pets must remain in a soft-sided carrier at all times.
International carriers and low-cost airlines tend to have more restrictive pet policies than major domestic carriers. But they can be budget-friendly options depending on your destination.
Preparing for Travel with Your Pet
No matter which airline you end up choosing, there are a few things you’ll want to do to prepare successfully for air travel with your dog:
- Contact the airline well in advance to understand their specific policies and restrictions. Don’t assume!
- Make sure your dog is comfortable traveling in a carrier and get them accustomed to it before your trip with short practice sessions.
- Bring vaccination records, health certificate if required, leash, food, bowls, pads or paper, toys/treats, medication if needed.
- Consider sedation from your vet to keep your dog calm during potential turbulence or loud noises on the plane.
- Plan extra time at the airport for check-in and security screening with your pet in tow.
Proper preparation is key to avoiding hassles and ensuring your furry companion’s comfort during air travel. Following carrier rules and having paperwork in order will help you both relax and enjoy your trip.
Alternative Transportation Options
If flying commercially doesn’t quite work for your pet’s needs, here are a few other transportation methods to consider:
- Drive yourself and take breaks every 3-4 hours so your dog can stretch, potty, and recharge. Road trips extend travel time but allow flexibility.
- Use a pet transportation service where professional handlers transport your dog separately by air in the cargo hold or ground transportation like a van. Expect higher costs than flying yourself.
- For very long distances, consider shipping your pet as air or ground freight through a company certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Requires proper crate and paperwork.
- Leave your dog in a professional boarding kennel near your destination and pick them up after you arrive if your trip is an extended stay. Make arrangements well in advance.
With some research into policies and your pet’s personality, you should be able to determine the safest and most comfortable travel option. Don’t forget—caring for your furry friend is a big responsibility even on vacation!
Frequently Asked Questions about Flying with Dogs
Here are answers to some common questions passengers have when considering air travel with their canine companions:
Q: Is there a weight limit for dogs on flights?
Most airlines allow small or medium-sized dogs up to around 20 pounds to fly in-cabin. Heavier dogs usually must be checked as cargo or may not be permitted depending on the airline.
Q: What kind of carrier is required?
The carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you and be sturdy enough to remain secure during takeoff and landing. Hard-sided carriers are typically not allowed for in-cabin pets. Always check the specific airline’s carrier requirements.
Q: How early should I get to the airport?
Allot an extra 30-45 minutes for check-in due to additional screening and paperwork when traveling with a pet. Some airports also have designated pet relief areas so you may need to plan to use those facilities as well.
Q: Will my dog be comfortable flying in cargo?
The cargo hold is generally not the best environment for pets due to loud noises and temperature/pressure variations. Consider sedating anxious dogs and choosing non-stop itineraries if possible to minimize cargo time.
Q: What other supplies should I bring for my pet?
Snacks, water, bedding, toys, pads or paper, medication if needed, documents—come prepared to keep your dog secure, stimulated and stress-free during the journey.
I hope this covers the various considerations and options for air travel with dogs. Please let me know if you have any other questions! With the right preparation and airline selection, Fido can join you on your next trip.
Airlines that Accept Dogs as Carry-On or Checked Baggage
| Airline | Accepts Dog as Carry-On? | Accepts Dog as Checked Baggage? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | Yes | Yes | Dog must remain in carrier under seat or at passenger’s feet. Up to 2 dogs per flight as carry-on. |
| American | Yes | Yes | Dog must remain in carrier under seat or at passenger’s feet. Up to 2 dogs per flight as carry-on. |
| United | Yes | Yes | Dog must remain in carrier under seat or at passenger’s feet. Up to 2 dogs per flight as carry-on. Some size restrictions and fees may apply. |
| Alaska | Yes | Yes | Dog must remain in carrier under seat or at passenger’s feet. Up to 2 dogs per flight as carry-on. |
FAQ
- Which airlines let dogs fly as cargo? Many major airlines like Delta, American, and United will transport dogs as cargo. You need to check their rules as vessel sizes and breeds allowed can differ. Nevertheless, cargo is not as comforting for animals as the cabin.
- Can I fly with my dog in the cabin? Some airlines allow small & medium-sized dogs to fly in the passenger cabin provided they remain in a carrier under the seat. Rules change often so it’s best to check directly with the airline and book well in advance. Perhaps a veterinarian certificate of health could help if your pet is nervous.
- What paperwork is required? To fly with a dog in cargo or cabin, you’ll need records of vaccinations, a health certificate from a vet within 10 days of travel, and an ISO-approved carrier or crate. At the same time, some destinations have quarantine rules so confirm locally what’s needed. On the other hand, follow the rules to avoid trouble at the airport.
- How can I keep my dog calm? Giving sedative medications prescribed by your vet can help minimize stress. Basically, acclimate your dog to its carrier beforehand and play calming music or videos while inside. Long walks before flights may tire them out too. Also, bring favorite chew toys or treats. Despite all precautions, your friend may still feel insecure.
- Is it better boarding or flying? Boarding lets your dog stay local in a home environment but you must entrust care to others. Sort of depends on the dog – high energy types may prefer cabin travel with their human. The choice really lies between short-term stress versus longer separation. Maybe ask at the boarding facility for reviews.
- What about emotional support animals? Legally, airlines must let folks fly with emotional support critters if docs certify the need. But is it worth it – what with demands on housing and behavior in public? It just causes annoyance for others if abused. On one hand, genuine cases deserve respect. On the other, some folks simply want pets onboard.
- How can I prepare my dog? Starting desensitization training weeks before travel through positive association builds confidence. Basically, get pup used to car rides, then driving to the airport, entering the crate and hearing noises. Amazing what small daily steps accomplish in the long-term! Consistency is key according to dog whisperers. Quote me: a relaxed pet makes for relaxed humans.