A Guide to Flying with Your Furry Friend: Dog-Friendly Airline Policies Explained
Many pet owners wonder, “What airline can my dog fly on?” The good news is most major US airlines now allow pets in the cabin for a fee. However, policies vary significantly between carriers. In this article, I’ll break down the baggage requirements, size limits, health paperwork needed, and any other stipulations for 9 major airlines to help you decide which is the best option for your pooch’s next plane ride.
Delta
Delta is generally considered one of the most pet-friendly airlines. They allow dogs and cats traveling in-cabin in approved kennels. Delta has a 50-pound weight limit and allows one pet per passenger in the cabin, with no limit on the number of pets flying as cargo.
From my experience flying with dogs on Delta, they’ve always been very accommodating. However, there are some important regulations to note. Pets must remain in kennels underneath the seat for the entire flight. You’ll also need an up-to-date vet health certificate and proof of current rabies vaccination. Rabies tags are not accepted as proof. The kennel fees range from $125-$250 each way depending on your destination.
United
United also allows dogs and cats in-cabin but with a stricter size limit of just 20 pounds. Like Delta, only one pet per passenger is permitted in the cabin with no limit for cargo. Kennel requirements and health paperwork are the same as Delta. Be cautious if booking connecting flights, as pet policies may differ between regional partner airlines.
I once encountered issues flying United where my dog was denied boarding as his kennel dimensions were 1/4 inch too large. They strictly enforce sizing to ensure the kennel fits under the seat. It ended up being a hassle to rebook last minute, so measure your pet carrier carefully if traveling United.
American Airlines
American Airlines accepts dogs and cats up to 20 pounds on domestic flights and 10 pounds on international flights. You can bring one pet per passenger in an approved soft-sided kennel. Health certificates are required and must be signed within 10 days of travel. The kennel fees tend to be on the higher end at $125 each way domestic and $200 internationally.
When flying American with my terrier mix, we had no problems other than her becoming anxious from the loud noises on the tarmac. To help nervous flyers, I bring calming treats and try to keep my pup occupied with gentle pets and reassurance. Proper introduction to new environments is key for a stress-free flight.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines allows dogs, cats, and even household birds in approved kennels. They have a fairly lenient 50-pound limit for pets in-cabin. Kennel dimensions must adhere to guidelines but are not as strict as other carriers. Health forms signed by a vet within 10 days are mandatory, along with proof of rabies vaccination.
What I like about Alaska is their very reasonable fees of just $75 each way for pets flying with owners. This comparatively low cost makes them appealing for budget-minded travelers. From my experience, their pet policies seem amongst the most straightforward and customer-friendly.
Southwest
Southwest only accepts small dogs and cats traveling in-cabin that can fit comfortably on the owner’s lap for the entire flight. This essentially limits pets to toy breeds and smaller. No kennels or cages are permitted, so your pet must remain leashed or securely held the whole time. No pet weight limit is specified.
Unfortunately, not all dogs take well to long periods on someone’s lap. Plus, a pet potentially wandering around the cabin during turbulence could become a safety hazard. I generally don’t recommend Southwest unless you have an ultra-calm tiny dog accustomed to extensive lap time.
JetBlue
JetBlue has a weight restriction of just 6 pounds for cats or dogs brought into the main cabin. Larger pets up to 50 pounds can travel as checked baggage. Kennels are required and health/vaccination paperwork as well. JetBlue charges $125 each way for pets flying as passengers.
I took my miniature schnauzer on JetBlue once without issue. However, their exceptionally low 6-pound limit means booking JetBlue isn’t suitable for most medium and large breed dogs. The fee is also higher than some competitors for equivalent services.
Spirit
Spirit Airlines allows pets up to 20 pounds traveling with owners in an approved soft-sided kennel stowed under the seat. However, Spirit has unusually strict criteria where they require pets to remain crated during check-in, boarding, and deplaning. Kennel accessories like food/water bowls or bedding cannot be brought on board either.
From speaking with other pet owners, keeping an anxious dog confined to its carrier throughout the airport process seems inhumane. Plus Spirit’s many add-on fees can really drive up total ticket costs compared to other airlines. Unless flying Spirit is your only choice, I’d recommend looking elsewhere.
Frontier
Frontier Airlines permits cats and dogs up to 20 pounds per kennel in the passenger cabin. Like Spirit, kennels must remain closed during check-in, boarding, and leaving the plane. Rabies vaccination paperwork within one year and $99 in fees each way are also required.
In my view, Frontier has decent enough pet policies on paper. However, issues with delayed or lost baggage seem more common based on online reviews. For the sake of avoiding stress to both owner and pet, I’d opt for airlines with a stronger reputation of on-time departures and arrivals if possible.
In summary, the top options for flying with dogs based on size limits, fees and reputation for smooth travel are Delta, Alaska, American and United. But it always pays to thoroughly research each airline’s specific policies. Measuring your pet’s kennel and keeping vaccination records updated can help ensure a furry travel companion flies smoothly. With proper preparation, many pet owners find taking their dogs on planes a positive experience. I hope this overview helps you determine the airline that best fits your pooch! Let me know if any other questions come up.
Airlines That Allow Pets in the Cabin
| Airline | Breed Restrictions | Cabin Size Limit | Proof of Vaccination | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | Snub-nosed or brachycephalic dogs and cats only in cargo | Under 20 lbs on lap or in carrier under the seat | Vaccination records required | $125 each way |
| United | Snub-nosed or brachycephalic dogs and cats only in cargo | Under 20 lbs on lap or in carrier under the seat | Vaccination records required | $125 each way |
| American | Snub-nosed or brachycephalic dogs and cats only in cargo | Under 20 lbs on lap or in carrier under the seat | Vaccination records required | $125 each way |
| Alaska | No breed restrictions | Under 20 lbs on lap | Vaccination records required | $100 each way |
| JetBlue | No breed restrictions | Under 20 lbs, maximum of one pet per passenger | Vaccination records required | $125 each way |
FAQ
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What airlines allow dogs as carry-on?
Most major airlines in the United States will let you bring your small dog or cat on board as your carry-on item. Airlines like Delta, American, United, and Alaska allow one pet per passenger in the cabin as long as it fits securely under the seat. The pet must stay in its carrier the whole time.
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Do I need paperwork for my dog to fly?
Yes, you’ll need some basic documentation for your pup when traveling by plane. Make sure your dog has updated vaccinations and a health certificate from your vet if it’s been less than 10 days since the vaccinations. You may also need to show proof your dog is house trained. Check the specific airline rules too as paperwork requirements can vary by carrier.
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What is the cheapest way to fly with a dog?
As far as cost goes, generally booking a nonstop flight is the most affordable option when traveling with a dog. This avoids paying additional charges if your pet has to be transferred between planes. You may also save money by flying on Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday when there are kind of fewer passengers. At the same time, shopping around airline fare websites can turn up deals, and some discount carriers offer cheap pet-friendly fares. Nevertheless, budget plenty for any added luggage or animal fees.
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Can an emotional support animal fly for free?
Yes, if your dog or other pet is licensed as a legitimate emotional support or service animal, federal law requires airlines to allow it to accompany you in the cabin at no extra charge beyond the standard ticket price. However, airlines may ask for documentation like a note from your mental health provider or doctor detailing your need for the support pet. On the other hand, pets providing comfort don’t have the extensive public access training of true service dogs.
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Is it safe to travel cross-country by plane with a dog?
While flying with pets poses some unique risks, with proper planning and precautions it can be safely done for cross-country trips. Dogs typically tolerate flights better than people expect. The biggest concerns are stress, changes in air pressure and temperature. You can help minimize these by giving your dog ample exercise before the journey, providing familiar items like a toy or blanket, and checking on them periodically in the cargo hold. Perhaps ask others you know with flying pets for tips too. Overall most animals make it to their destination happy and healthy.
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What if my dog is afraid of flying?
Fear of flying is real for some dogs too. If yours appears anxious or stressed about air travel, discuss medication options with your vet. Being sedated can help keep an uneasy pup calm on the plane. You might also seek special training to desensitize fearful dogs to airport sounds and environments. Provide extra comfort items from home. And ask the airline about special pet holding areas or sedatives they allow. Overall the safest approach is honest evaluation of how your pooch might fare and solutions to ease flying fears.
Can any dog fly as a carry-on?
Not necessarily. The size of the dog and kennel play a big role in whether it can come onboard as carry-on luggage. Most airlines restrict carry-on pets to carriers no more than 18 inches tall and fit neatly under the seat. Some smaller dogs basically fit in personal item sized carriers. Larger dogs usually have to be checked as cargo. So measure your furry friend’s kennel before assuming it can come in the cabin.