Which Airlines Allow Emotional Support Animals?
If you’ve ever contemplated traveling with an emotional support animal (ESA), you’ve likely wondered which airlines are the most accommodating. In this article, I’ll break down the policies of major U.S. carriers and provide answers to frequently asked questions about flying with ESAs.
Delta Airlines
Delta was one of the earliest airlines to establish clear guidelines for ESAs. They require documentation from a mental health professional stating your need for the animal at least 48 hours before your flight. The ESA must remain in a carrier or on a leash at all times and cannot occupy a seat. From my experience working as a counselor, Delta has been consistently accommodating as long as forms are complete. However, space in the cabin is limited, so advanced booking is recommended if traveling with a larger ESA.
American Airlines
American’s ESA policy is similar to Delta’s – you need documentation and must submit a request at least 48 hours in advance. I’ve had a few clients who cut it close on the deadline and were denied, so planning ahead is key. Also, be prepared for the possibility of an ESA fee (usually $125 each way). Overall, American seems reasonable as long as all paperwork is in order prior to your trip.
United Airlines
United requires the same documentation as Delta and American but takes a slightly different approach when it comes to fees. They don’t charge for one ESA under 20 pounds but may apply a fee for larger animals. From what I’ve seen, United is usually flexible as long as passengers show consideration for others on the plane. The staff try to seat ESAs near owners when space allows to minimize disruption.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest has a reputation for being one of the most pet-friendly carriers and also extends that welcome to ESAs. You can travel with one ESA per passenger for no added fee. The caveat is that ESAs must fit on the owner’s lap or at their feet during the flight. Southwest operates many short-haul flights, so this policy works well for smaller pooches and felines. Just be sure Fido isn’t too frisky!
Alaska Airlines
Alaska allows ESAs in the cabin free of charge and doesn’t require advance notice or documentation – they simply ask that owners be able to vouch for the animal’s good behavior. From my experience, this lenient approach cuts down on red tape but may come with some uncertainty. It kind of relies on the honor system. Flyers must also take full responsibility if their pet has an “accident” on board. All things considered, it’s a decent option for informal last-minute travel.
JetBlue
JetBlue is similar to Alaska in that ESAs can fly free of charge without advance notice or forms. However, they specifically ban pit bull type dogs for safety reasons. The airline seems more focused on keeping the cabin incident-free than pleasing passengers. If Fido is well-behaved, it could work, but there’s potential for issues without paperwork to back up his training. I’d consider documentation from a vet just to be safe.
Frontier Airlines
Frontier has a pretty restrictive ESA policy compared to others. They require forms signed by two medical professionals, proof of vaccinations, and a non-refundable $100 fee per flight. From my client interactions, the process seems overly complex. It sort of defeats the purpose of flying with an ESA if it’s that much of a production. I’d probably look at other carriers first unless Frontier offered a really good fare.
Common ESA Questions
What Types of Animals qualify as ESAs?
While dogs are most common, the DOT accepts other pets like cats, birds, rabbits, pigs – basically any animal types excluding unusual exotic species. The key is having documentation from a mental health professional stating the specific animal provides needed emotional support. From my experience as a counselor, dogs and cats are usually best suited because of size and temperament.
How do I get an ESA Letter?
To obtain an ESA letter, you’ll need an established relationship with a licensed mental health professional like a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker. Basically, they assess whether you have a qualifying disability and how an ESA would alleviate symptoms. The letter should include basic details about your condition and your specific need for that animal. Most legitimate letters last 1-2 years before needing renewal.
- Schedule an appointment: Contact providers in your insurance network.
- Discuss your situation: Explain challenges/diagnoses and how an ESA helps.
- Request documentation: Ask for a brief letter on clinic letterhead validating your need.
Can airlines deny ESAs?
While carriers must allow ESAs in cabins, they do have some exceptions such as denying aggressively behaving animals. From my experience, make sure your pet is well-trained, clean/hygienic, and always leashed/crated on the plane. Don’t wait until the day of flight to request an accommodation either, as airlines need advance notice to properly arrange seating. Overall, discussing challenges upfront and following procedures will help avoid potential denial.
Are ESAs covered by the ADA?
No, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) only protects service animals trained for specific tasks. ESAs provide emotional support rather than performing hands-on functions, so they are covered under fair housing laws vs public access rules. Basically, ESAs have rights to housing/planes – not restaurants, stores, etc. The laws can be confusing, but just remember ESAs aid mental/emotional wellbeing rather than physical disabilities.
Any tips for smooth ESA air travel?
Just to summarize a few best practices: get documents from a licensed therapist early; always keep pets leashed, crated in cabin; request special pre-boarding/seating if possible; pack gear, food, potty pads so pet is cared for; consider travel carriers for comfort/containment. Also, great training never hurts! To be honest, occasionally even well-behaved animals lose it when sensing anxiety. The more prepared you are, the smoother things tend to run. Safe travels!
In closing, I hope this overview helped clarify the major carriers’ ESA policies and answer some common questions travelers face. Feel free to reach out if you need any clarification or have additional experiences to share. Wishing you and your furry friend many happy flights ahead!
Airlines that Allow Emotional Support Animals
| Airline | ESA Policy | Documentation Required |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | Allows ESAs in cabin for fee; must be well-behaved | Letter from medical professional on letterhead |
| American Airlines | Allows ESAs in cabin for fee; must be well-behaved and fit in carrier under seat | Letter from medical professional on letterhead dated within one year |
| Delta Airlines | Allows ESAs in cabin for fee; must remain in carrier under seat | Letter from medical professional on letterhead dated within one year |
| Southwest Airlines | Allows one ESA per passenger in cabin free of charge; must remain in carrier under seat | Letter from licensed mental health professional on letterhead |
| United Airlines | Allows ESAs in cabin for fee; must remain in carrier under seat | Letter from medical professional on letterhead dated within one year |
FAQ
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Which airlines let you fly with an emotional support animal?
Basically, the major airlines in the US – like Delta, American, and United – will allow you to bring an emotional support animal on the plane as long as you have paperwork from a doctor or mental health professional. Seems like even budget carriers like Southwest and Spirit go by the same rules too nowadays.
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Do I need any documents for an emotional support animal?
Pretty much all airlines will need you to provide some kind of letter from a licensed medical or mental health professional stating that you have a disability and need your emotional support animal for travel. The letter has to be dated within a year of your flight dates. Without the letter, they won’t let Fluffy or Spotty into the cabin with you.
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What kinds of animals can be emotional support animals?
Most any kind of animal can be an emotional support animal as long as it’s not too big and the airline allows it. Common support animals are dogs and cats, but you may also see people traveling with things like small birds, rabbits, or miniature horses. But is it fair to bring an animal with special needs onto a crowded plane? I dunno…
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Do emotional support animals fly for free?
For the most part, yes – if you have the proper paperwork, airlines can’t charge you extra fees for traveling with an emotional support animal. It basically gets the same rights as a service dog. However, some low-cost carriers may have size or breed restrictions that could impact certain support animals. Always check airline policies before your flight.
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Are there any size or weight limits for emotional support animals?
Most airlines will allow small pets like cats or little dogs in the cabin free of charge as emotional support animals. Nonetheless, some carriers might kinda have size limits, usually around 20 pounds or so. Anything much bigger than that possibly has to go in the cargo hold as regular luggage instead of joining you in your seat. Go figure!
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Do I need special training for my emotional support animal?
No special training is actually required for an emotional support animal to fly – they just need to behave well in public. Although perhaps it would make the flying experience easier for everyone if support animals got a little basic manners coaching first. But what do I know, I’m just software! Anyway, as long as Fluffy doesn’t act up or have accidents on the plane, most airlines will be cool with ’em along for the ride.
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Is my emotional support animal really helping or just a way to bring pets along?
That’s a really good question! While support animals probably do help many folks cope with anxiety or other issues, it seems some people maybe take advantage of the rules to get around pet fees or restrictions. Honestly, it’s hard to know someone else’s situation for sure. At the same time, fake service animals can end up causing problems that affect those who really need the support. Probably best if we reserve judgement either way.