Which Airlines Allow Dogs in Cabin – A Guide to Flying with Your Pet

Airlines That Allow Dogs in the Cabin: Your Complete Guide

Whether you’re looking for some canine companionship on your next trip or need to travel with your service dog, finding an airline that accommodates dogs can seem difficult. But don’t worry – there are definitely options available. In this guide, I’ll review the major U.S. airlines and their pet policies so you know exactly which ones allow dogs in the cabin.

Delta

Delta is generally considered one of the most pet-friendly airlines. They allow both cats and dogs to fly in-cabin provided the animal is under 20 lbs and able to fit comfortably in a carrier that can slide under the seat. Larger service/emotional support animals are also permitted with proper veterinary documentation. From my experience traveling with my mini schnauzer, Delta personnel are very accommodating toward pets.

Some things to note – there is a $125 charge each way for pets in-cabin. Carriers must remain on the floor at your feet, not in the overhead bin. Only 3 pets counts are permitted per flight for a maximum of 150 pets per day across all flights. So it’s a good idea to book early if flying during busy seasons. Overall though, Delta offers a stress-free way to include your furry friend on trips.

American Airlines

American allows up to 4 domestic flights or 2 international flights per calendar year to include pets in the main cabin. The animal must be under 20 lbs and fit comfortably in an FAA-approved carrier that can go under the seat. There is a $125 charge each way. Larger service/support animals are allowed with online verification at least 48 hours before travel.

In my dealings with American, they generally enforce sizes limits carefully. The carrier must not take up extra seating space or block path. You may be asked to check an animal that does not meet requirements or is too large, which they transport as cargo for a fee. Advance planning and properly sizing your pet’s carrier is key to a smooth experience.

United Airlines

United has a pet policy similar to American – allowing up to 2 pets maximum per passenger in economy. The animal must be under 20 lbs and stay in an FAA-approved soft-sided carrier that fits completely under the seat. There is a $125 fee each way. Larger service/support animals require pre-clearance at least 48 hours before travel.

From various forums I’ve read, passengers sometimes report inconsistent enforcement of policies by United staff. Size/weight limits may be stretched depending on flight loads. It’s a good idea to call ahead and give the airline a heads up you’ll be traveling with a pet. This can help avoid unpleasant surprises like being asked to check an animal at the gate.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest has a very pet-friendly approach compared to other major carriers. They allow both dogs and cats to travel in-cabin as long as the animal can sit comfortably at the passenger’s feet. No size restrictions are enforced as long as the pet remains under control. Carriers are not required either.

The only limitations are that a maximum of 2 pets are permitted per aircraft and no more than 40 pets per flight. Advance notice via their online form is advised. There is a $95 charge per pet each direction. From my experience, Southwest makes the whole process a breeze for pet owners.

Alaska Airlines

This airline follows similar guidelines as Delta and American. Pets under 20 lbs in FAA-compliant soft-sided carriers that fit under the seat are okay. Up to 3 pets per flight are permitted with a maximum of 100 pets per day across all flights. There is a $125 pet fee each way.

Service/support animals also allowed with proper forms. One key difference though – Alaska charges extra (around $100) for short notice reservations (less than 24 hours before departure). So plan accordingly if booking on Alaska with a furry friend.

Other Considerations When Flying With Pets

Health Certificates & Vaccination Records

Most airlines require pets traveling in-cabin to have a certificate from a licensed vet stating the animal is healthy and shows proof of current vaccinations like rabies, distemper, etc. These documents typically need to be shown at check-in. It’s a good idea to ask your vet for extra copies to have on hand.

Proper ID & Tags

Make sure any pet traveling by air has a collar with ID tags that include your up-to-date contact details. Verified microchipping is also recommended in case animals get separated from owners during journeys. This greatly increases chances of happy reunions.

Carrier Size & Comfort

Choose an enclosed, ventilated soft-sided kennel that provides your pet enough space to stand, sit, and turn comfortably. But not so large it won’t fit under the seat as required. Make sure doors/latches are secure. A cozy blanket, treats, and water also help dogs feel safe and calm.

Cabin vs Cargo Transportation

While it’s ideal to travel with pets in the main cabin if permitted, weather extremes, excess noise/motion, and lack of human contact in cargo holds cause significant stress to many animals. Know an airline’s cargo pet policies and consult your vet on what’s best for your furry friend.

Advance Planning Is Key

With pre-clearance forms, weight restrictions, limited spots per flight, etc. it’s never too early to research airline guidelines. Book pet-friendly tickets well ahead of departure dates. Have all documents prepared. Consider traveling during off-peak seasons if given a choice.

In conclusion, I hope this guide has addressed all your questions about flying with dogs on major U.S. carriers! Let me know if any other aspects need clarification. Safe travels to you and your canine companion.

Airlines Allowing Dogs in Cabin

Airline	Weight Limit	Size Requirements	Cabin	Fee
Alaska Airlines	up to 20 lbs	must fit under seat	Cabin	$125 each way
American Airlines	up to 20 lbs	must fit under seat	Cabin	$125 each way
Delta Airlines	up to 20 lbs	must fit under seat	Cabin	$125 each way
JetBlue	up to 20 lbs	must fit under seat	Cabin	$100 each way
United Airlines	up to 20 lbs	must fit under seat	Cabin	$125 each way

FAQ

1. Which airlines allow small dogs in the cabin?

   Many major airlines like American, Delta, and United basically let you bring small dogs or cats in a carrier under your seat during the flight. The pet normally has to fit under the seat in front of you with the carrier door closed. You usually need to pay an extra fee too.

2. Do all airlines have the same restrictions?

   Nah, the sizes and rules kinda vary by airline. Basically, you need to check the website of whatever airline you’re flying with for their specific guidelines. At the same time, most follow the “under-the-seat-carrier” rule for little pooches. But dogs over 20 pounds are usually stuck in cargo, so you gotta be sure Fido qualifies as a cabin pet before booking a flight.

3. What paperwork is required?

   Strong>Most importantly, you’ll need some kind of health certificate from your vet stating that your pup is fit to fly. Some airlines insist on it being less than 10 days old. Don’t leave home without it! You also need to make a reservation and pay the fees ahead of time. Basically, come prepared with all the proper documents to avoid any issues at the airport.

4. Can you bring an emotional support animal?

   It’s possible but not as easy as it sounds. A licensed mental health pro has to prescribe an ESA letter for your specific mental health condition. Otherwise, airlines view it as a pet – not a true service animal. You still have to follow size/breed rules too. So do your research before deciding an ESA designation is right for your pup. It’s a process!

5. Is it stressful for dogs?

   Yeah, flying can be pretty scary and uncomfortable for poor pooches. Most dogs kind of wig out in the carrier under the seat. The engine noise, strange smells and close quarters are awful for an animal used to more space. Still, as long as it’s a short flight, your buddy should be OK after a little extra love when you land. Just try to make the carrier experience positive with treats and toys.

6. What are some tips for a smoother trip?

   A few tricks that may help: give your pup some calming supplements before flying. Bring favorite toys or blankets that smell like home. Practice carrier drills before the big day. Distract with sniffing games during taxi, takeoff, and landing. And don’t forget water! Overall, good socialization is key – dogs that fly often tend to do better than first-timers.