Which Airlines Allow Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) To Fly With You

Airline Policies on Emotional Support Animals

Traveling with an emotional support animal (ESA) can provide comfort to those with certain disabilities or medical conditions. However, different airline carriers have distinct policies regarding ESAs. In this article, I’ll explore the ESA policies of major U.S. airlines to help you determine which may best accommodate your needs.

What is an emotional support animal?

An ESA, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), is “an animal that works, provides assistance, or performs tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, or provides emotional support that alleviates one or more identified symptoms or effects of a person’s disability.” This differs from a service animal, which is trained to perform specific jobs or tasks.

While airlines are not required under the Air Carrier Access Act to recognize ESAs, many opt to accommodate them to be ADA compliant for travelers with disabilities on the ground. The key is having official documentation from a mental health professional stating your need for the animal.

Airline policies on ESAs

From my experience traveling with ESAs, airline policies can vary drastically. Here’s a breakdown of major domestic carriers and their ESA allowances:

1. American Airlines: Allows one ESA per passenger in the cabin at no charge. Documentation must be dated within one year of travel. No other pet policies apply to ESAs.
2. Delta: Permits ESAs in the cabin with proper documentation. Exempts ESAs from pet shipment fees, but other policies like advance notification deadlines still apply.
3. United: Allows ESAs in the cabin at no pet fees. Requires a “ESA acknowledgement form” completed by a licensed mental health professional. ESAs must remain on the floor or in a pet carrier.
4. Southwest: The most ESA-friendly airline. No documentation required, just verbal confirmation of need from the customer. Up to two ESAs may travel with each passenger at no extra cost.

Common restrictions

While policies vary, most airlines impose some universal ESA restrictions including:

1. Animals must remain on the floor at the passenger’s feet or in an appropriate carrier under the seat.
2. ESAs cannot occupy a seat.
3. Passengers are responsible for animal hygiene, waste disposal, and any disruptions caused.
4. Some breeds may be barred, like pitbulls, for safety reasons.
5. Advance notification, usually 48-96 hours, is required for international flights.

From my experience, sticking to domestic carriers and providing documentation proactively helps ensure a smooth ESA travel experience. Although not as relaxed as Southwest, most major airlines are willing to accommodate with the proper paperwork.

Alternatives if your animal is denied

If an airline refuses your ESA due to incomplete or expired documentation, you basically have two options. The first is to try flying with a different carrier that may be kinder to ESAs. Some people I know have basically resorted to “airline shopping” to find one willing to bend the rules a bit.

Other folks in this situation have opted to check their animal as luggage, which can be pricey and stressful for the pet. Kind of a last resort, but better than leaving Fido behind. A third choice would be to road trip if it’s possible for your situation.

Overall, having your ducks in a row with updated ESA docs clears a major hurdle. But stuff happens, so having a backup plan sort of gives you an “ace up your sleeve” if the unexpected occurs. Basically, it never hurts to keep your options open!

Tips for preparing your ESA to fly

To help ensure a calm, seamless flying experience for you and your ESA, here are a few tips I recommend:

1. Get your animal accustomed to riding in a carrier through practice sessions at home.
2. Familiarize them with common airport noises like alarms and heavy vehicle engines through YouTube videos.
3. Consider anxiety medication or calming treats if your pet seems especially nervous.
4. Bring water, snacks, favorite toys for entertainment and stress relief during the flight.
5. Use a pet backpack carrier rather than hard-plastic kennels for comfort and calming pheromones.
6. Make sure vaccination records, microchip or ID info is easily accessible if requested.

The more prepared and at ease your ESA is, the smoother the travel experience tends to be. Some practice and TLC goes a long way towards keeping them – and you! – relaxed on board.

Frequently asked questions about flying with an ESA

People have many additional questions when considering flying with an emotional support critter. Here are answers to some commonly raised concerns:

Do I need special training for my ESA? No, ESAs provide emotional support through their presence – no public access tasks are required.

What size or breed is okay? Most allow small/medium dogs or cats under 20 lbs. No aggressive breeds due to safety concerns.

Can I use a vest/collar to identify my ESA? While not legally mandated, a vest can help airport staff recognize your pet’s role for your disability.

Will my ESA be allowed in the cabin at foreign airports? International ESA rules vary greatly. Contact your airline + destination country for valid travel documentation needs.

How do I prepare my ESA in case they act up? Practice basic commands. Pack a crate or try calming treats/toys if your pet displays anxiety behavior like barking or kicking the carrier. Communication and responsibility are key.

With a little effort, many questions can be answered proactively. Reaching out directly to your chosen airline is also wise for any special circumstances regarding disabled access. Overall, planning and responsible ownership go far in helping ESAs gain acceptance within the flying community.

In the end, determining which airlines are most accommodating involves weighing individual policies, restrictions and your pet’s needs. With some research, the right airline-animal match can be found to provide that extra emotional boost at 30,000 feet. Safe travels to all readers and their furry friends!

Airlines That Allow Emotional Support Animals

Airline	ESA Policies	Notes
Alaska Airlines	Allows ESAs	ESAs must remain in a carrier under seat at all times.
American Airlines	Allows ESAs	Requires completed form from medical professional and animal must fit on owners lap or at their feet.
Delta Airlines	Allows ESAs	Requires documentation no older than 1 year. Animal must remain in carrier under seat.
JetBlue	Allows ESAs	Documentation required at least 48 hours before flight. Animal must remain in carrier under seat.
Southwest Airlines	Allows ESAs	Documentation required at time of booking. Animal must remain in carrier under customers feet or on their lap.
Spirit Airlines	Allows ESAs	Documentation required at least 48 hours before flight. Animal must remain in carrier under customers seat during flight.
United Airlines	Allows ESAs	Documentation required at least 48 hours before flight. Animal must remain in carrier under seat.

FAQ

1. Which airlines will let me fly with an ESA?

   Basically, many major airlines like American, Delta, United, and Southwest will allow ESAs. The animal has to stay in a carrier or on your lap under your control for the whole flight. Simply contact the airline in advance and fill out any forms they require regarding the ESA.

2. Do ESAs still need training or vaccinations?

   Kind of – while ESAs don’t require formal training like service animals, it’s a good idea to do some basic obedience training with your pet so they behave well on flights. You’ll also need yearly veterinary records showing vaccines and health to bring the ESA on board. Check the airline’s policies for specifics.

3. What paperwork do I need for my ESA?

   You’ll basically need a note from your doctor or mental health provider stating that you need your pet for emotional support purposes. Airlines may call this a “prescriptions letter.” Be sure it’s on official letterhead and signed/dated within one year. An ID card and vest for the animal are also recommended but not required by law.

4. Can an ESA help with anxiety while flying?

   Studies show ESAs can lower stress levels for some people, so they may help with flying anxiety. However, not everyone responds the same. It depends on how much you bond with your pet. Having them by your side in the cabin may provide comfort to you. Still, do your best to prepare your ESA for takeoff/landing noises as well.

5. What other places accept ESAs?

   Besides planes, ESAs are permitted in housing subject to federal laws protecting people with disabilities. Landlords must allow tenants’ ESAs unless it poses an undue burden. Some stores, hotels, restaurants and colleges also accommodate ESAs with paperwork proof. Check individual business policies to be sure an ESA is allowed before bringing them along.

   

6. Can I bring a friend’s pet as an ESA instead of adopting my own?

   Unfortunately, no – ESAs are prescribed to help specific people with mental disabilities, not just bring along any pet of your choosing for free. You’ll need an established bond with the animal and veterinary records proving it’s your pet. However, fostering or adopting a pet in need of a home can be rewarding in itself if you truly require its emotional support regularly.

7. Is it possible for an ESA to no longer be needed over time?

   It’s quite possible that an ESA provides temporary support which enabled you to develop coping skills and the animal is perhaps no longer indispensible. Discuss this with your health provider. They’ll determine if your mental or physical health has improved enough to function without the ESA now. Airlines may request updated documentation reflecting any change in necessity.