An airline heat embargo is a temporary restriction that prevents pets from traveling in aircraft cargo holds when ground temperatures at the departure or arrival airport are too hot or too cold. Most U.S. airlines that accept pets in cargo — including Alaska Airlines, Delta, American Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines — impose heat embargos when temperatures exceed 80–85°F or drop below 20–45°F, depending on the carrier. These embargos typically affect summer travel from May through September and winter travel from November through February, making air cargo an unreliable option for pet transport during much of the year.
What Is an Airline Heat Embargo for Pets?
Airline heat embargos restriction that airlines place on pet travel due to the ambient temperature both at the departure and arrival airport.
- While we’re calling it a heat embargo, pet flight can also be restricted if the weather is too cold.
- If temperatures are above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, airlines have the responsibility and the duty to restrict travel.
- In cooler months, if the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, then pets are barred from the cargo area.
Why? Extreme temperatures can make pets’ existing health issues even worse — and even healthy pets can experience issues when too hot or cold.
Which Airlines Enforce Pet Heat Embargos?
There are a few domestic airlines that allow pets to be in the cargo hold. Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines and American Airlines. All three airlines enforce heat embargos.
- Both Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines will accept pets in cargo if the temperatures are between 45 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Delta Airlines won’t allow pets in the cargo area if the temperature is over 80 degrees Fahrenheit or below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is between 20 degrees and 45 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ll need a Certificate of Acclimation.
- American Airlines has a strict policy that they will not accept pets in the cargo hold if the weather is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit or above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
When Are Pet Heat Embargos Typically in Effect?
Pet travel embargos are most common during extreme temperature seasons. Heat embargos usually occur from May through September, especially in southern and southwestern U.S. cities where ground temperatures can exceed safe limits. Cold embargos are more common from November through February in northern regions where freezing conditions pose risks. Importantly, airlines evaluate temperatures at both the departure and arrival airports—so even if one location is mild, your pet’s travel can still be restricted. For example, a July flight from Seattle to Phoenix may be denied due to extreme heat in Phoenix.
New CDC Rules Affecting Pets Flying Into the U.S.
The CDC has recently passed new laws concerning flying with pets. These new rules are intended to limit the exposure of rabies in the United States. Due to these new rules, airlines have decided to embargo pets from flying into the United States from countries or territories considered “high risk” for rabies or if the pet has been in a high-risk location within the past six months.
Why Pet Ground Transport Is a Safer Alternative to Air Cargo
Pet ground transport is safer, more reliable, and more humane than air cargo travel. Why? Let’s take a look at the reasons.
Why Ground Transport is Safer
- There is always a transporter there with them at all times.
- Transporters can address health issues and take care of your pet during travel.
- CitizenShipper offers a variety of pet protection plans for added peace of mind.
Why Ground Transport is More Reliable
- There are no heat embargos for ground transportation.
- Flights can get canceled at any time.
- Ground transportation logistics are easier and can offer door-to-door delivery.
Why Ground Transport is More Humane
- Flying can stress a pet, whereas transporters can comfort your pet if they are stressed.
- Transporters are animal lovers who will treat your pet like their own.
- You wouldn’t put your children in the cargo area of a plane — don’t do this with your pets!
CitizenShipper is the #1 Marketplace for Finding Pet Ground Transportation
CitizenShipper is the most humane, safest way to transport your pet. Why? Transporters using the platform have years of experience relocating pets around the country. They’re animal lovers, which means they’ll take the time to ensure you and your pet are comfortable during the journey.
Plus, it’s extremely easy to use CitizenShipper. Fill out a listing for pet transportation and you’ll receive quotes within minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an airline heat embargo for pets?
2. When are pet heat embargos most common?
Heat embargos are most common during the summer months, typically from May through September, especially in hotter regions like the southern and southwestern United States. Cold embargos usually occur from November through February in northern areas where freezing temperatures are a concern. Airlines check both origin and destination weather conditions before approving pet travel. This means even one extreme location can result in a denied booking.
3. Which airlines have pet heat embargo policies?
Major U.S. airlines that allow pets in cargo—such as Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines—all enforce heat embargo policies. While the exact temperature thresholds may vary slightly, all prioritize pet safety during extreme weather. Some airlines also require additional documentation, like acclimation certificates, in borderline temperatures. Policies can change, so it’s important to check directly with the airline before booking.
4. Why are heat embargos important for pet safety?
Heat embargos help prevent serious health risks such as heatstroke, hypothermia, and respiratory distress in pets. Cargo holds may be climate-controlled during flight, but pets are still exposed to outdoor temperatures during loading, unloading, and ground delays. Extreme heat or cold can quickly become life-threatening, especially for older pets or breeds with breathing issues. These restrictions are designed to reduce the risk of injury or death during transit.
5. What are alternatives if my pet can’t fly due to an embargo?
If your pet is affected by a heat embargo, ground transportation is often the best alternative. Door-to-door pet transport services allow pets to travel in climate-controlled vehicles with regular breaks and supervision. Unlike air cargo, ground transport is not subject to weather-related flight restrictions. This makes it a more reliable and less stressful option, especially during peak summer or winter months.
Patrick MacFarland has been a teacher, a candidate for public office, and a local tour guide. But now he dedicates his time writing full-time, currently at CitizenShipper and VeraContent.
