Which Airlines Will Let You Fly With Large Dogs in the Cabin

Which Airlines Are Pet-Friendly for Large Dog Travel?

If you have a large dog and want to take him flying with you in the cabin rather than cargo, here is a comprehensive guide to the airline policies for canine travelers. From my experience flying with dogs both domestically and internationally, understanding each airline’s size restrictions, fees, and paperwork requirements is key to having a smooth journey.

United Airlines

United allows dogs up to 50 pounds in the cabin as long as they fit under the seat in a carrier. Larger dogs must be checked as cargo or travel on certain flights marketed as “PetSafe” where kennels are available in the cargo hold. Fees are $125 each way for dogs 20 pounds or less, and $250 each way for dogs over 20 pounds. You’ll need a health certificate and proof of vaccinations from your vet.

American Airlines

American has a strict size limit of 20 pounds or less for in-cabin dogs. Any dog over that weight is considered an oversized pet and must travel in the cargo hold, kennel included. Fees are $125 each way. A health certificate is required within 10 days of travel for some international routes.

Delta Airlines

Delta allows dogs up to 20 pounds in-cabin without fees, 21-50 pounds for 5 each way. There is no weight limit if the dog fits in its carrier under the seat. Keep in mind some routes to Asia and South America have stricter size policies. Make sure to check your specific itinerary details. Documentation requirements vary based on destination.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska stands out for being very pet-friendly, allowing pets both in-cabin and cargo up to 115 pounds with few restrictions. Fees are $125 each way for dogs under 100 pounds, more for heavier pups. Kennel size limits apply based on dog’s measurements. Official paperwork must be issued within 10 days of travel for most routes.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest is one of the most accommodating airlines for large dogs. There are no weight limits as long as the dog can sit at a passenger’s feet, although pay attention to the carrier size limits. Fees are $95 each way with advance notice. No health certificate needed for domestic travel, only an in-cabin acceptance form.

JetBlue

JetBlue allows pets up to 20 pounds in the cabin at no charge beyond the standard fee. Anything over 20 pounds must travel in the belly of the plane. Carrier size restrictions apply. You’ll need a health certificate within 6 months. Check pet requirements for island routes like Puerto Rico which differ.

So in summary, Southwest and Alaska are great options for large dogs flying in-cabin. United, Delta, and JetBlue allow up to 50 pounds, while American has the strictest limit of under 20 pounds. Always review specific policies and contact the airline in advance with any questions.

Cabin Travel Tips

Here are some tips I’ve learned from my own experiences flying with dogs in the passenger cabin:

1. Bring water, snacks, paper towels, and a plastic bag in case of accidents.
2. Arrive extra early for check-in as you’ll need to verify paperwork and carrier requirements.
3. Bring disposable pads, pee pads or papers to line the carrier in case your dog needs to relieve itself mid-flight.
4. Make sure your dog is used to their carrier, gets regular exercise beforehand, and has not eaten a full meal in the last 6 hours to reduce anxiety and nausea.
5. Consult your veterinarian about calming supplements if your dog gets stressed. But don’t sedate without vet advice.
6. Bring their favorite blanket or toy to make them comfortable.
7. Alert the flight attendant if your dog seems restless so they can check on you.

Planning is key when flying with an animal friend. Double check documentation dates, policies, and have backup plans in case delays occur. Most importantly, make sure your furry companion is comfortable and calm for the journey.

Flying Pets As Cargo

If your dog exceeds cabin size/weight limits, flying cargo is the only option. Here are some tips based on my experience:

1. Book directly with the airline, not a third party service, for seamless handling.
2. Use an airline like Alaska or United that markets “PetSafe” cabins ensuring kennels in pressurized cargo holds.
3. Invest in an sturdy, escape-proof kennel meeting IATA standards and label it clearly.
4. Book early flights to avoid extended waits on tarmacs where temperature rises.
5. Consider shipping sedatives from your vet if flying causes anxiety.
6. Monitor weather and avoid travel during extreme highs/lows.
7. Pre-arrange ground transport from airport for prompt retrieval.

With proper prep and kenneling, pets usually tolerate cargo transport just fine. But it’s always less stressful for animal and owner if cabin travel is an option.

International Pet Travel

Taking pets abroad requires extra paperwork hassle but is totally doable. Here are the key steps:

1. Contact the embassy of destination country for import rules like microchipping and vaccinations required.
2. Obtain export/import permits from governments of both countries well ahead of travel dates.
3. Book flights allowing transit time through airports without lengthy delays or transfers where animals can’t leave airside.
4. Carry originals of all documents like vaccination records and import permits with you as copies may not be accepted.
5. Consider pet-friendly kennels/hotels at your destination for when you can’t bring Fido inside hotels/restaurants.

International pet movers can help guide the paperwork process, but it pays to be over-prepared to avoid stressful surprises. With diligent planning, you can take your furry family member virtually anywhere!

Final Thoughts

To summarize, whether flying cabin or cargo, communication with your airline and advance paperwork are key to smooth international or domestic dog travel. Most pups do just fine if given proper handling and a calm demeanor. Fees are worth it to keep pets by our side. With a bit of prep, we can all take Fido along on family adventures both near and far! Let me know if you have any other pet travel questions.

Airlines That Allow Large Dogs in Cabin

Airline	Breed Restrictions	Crate Size Limit	Weight Limit	Advance Notice
Delta	None	Maximum of 20x12x9 inches including any carrier or bag	70 lbs	At least 48 hours prior to flight
American	No brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs	Maximum of 17x13x9 inches including any carrier or bag	50 lbs	At least 48 hours prior to flight
United	No brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs	Maximum of 17x13x9 inches including any carrier or bag	100 lbs	At least 48 hours prior to flight
Alaska	No brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs	Maximum kennel fits completely under the seat	No weight limit	At least 48 hours prior to flight
JetBlue	Certain banned breeds	Maximum of 19x13x8 inches including any carrier or bag	50 lbs	At least 48 hours prior to flight

FAQ

1. Which airlines let you bring large dogs in the cabin?

   Airlines like Delta, American, and United permit dogs over 20 pounds on flights as long as they remain in a carrier under the seat for the whole flight. You gotta keep Fido contained!

2. Do all airlines charge a fee for an in-cabin dog?

   Most airlines require you to pay a fee for bringing your furry friend on board. The charges are usually around $125 each way. However, some discount carriers like Southwest don’t allow pets at all.

   

3. What size carrier is required for an in-cabin dog?

   The kennel needs to fit completely under the seat in front of you without sticking out into the aisle. So it can’t be no bigger than around 18x13x9 inches. Any larger and little Rover will have to ride in the cargo hold.

4. Are there any size or weight limits for cabin dogs?

   While many airlines let you bring dogs up to around 20 pounds in the cabin, you should always check the specific policies because the limits occasionally vary by airline. Anything over 20 pounds is iffy.

5. Do I need any documents for an in-cabin dog?

   You’ll need proof that pooch is current on all vaccinations as well as a health certificate from the vet if you’re doing international travel. It’s also a good idea to bring documentation that the carrier meets airline standards just to be safe.

6. What if my dog acts up during the flight?

   If little Sparky starts howling or misbehaving, the flight crew might ask you to put them in a cargo kennel down below for the rest of the flight. So make sure to do training runs with Fido in their carrier to get them used to it before travel day.

7. Is it healthier for a dog to fly in cabin or cargo?

   Most experts agree that it’s better for canine passengers to be in the main cabin whenever possible rather than down in baggage holding due to potential hazards like extreme temperatures. But cargo kennels are sometimes required for larger pups.

8. Any tips for making an in-cabin dog flight smoother?

   It helps to bring doggie snacks and a favorite toy or blanket to make them feel more comfy. Maybe try calming treats or CBD oil too if they tend to get nervous. Communication with the flight crew is key, and don’t forget to ask about airline pet policies before buying those plane tickets!