Flying With Pets: What Airline Policies You Should Know

Patrick MacFarland Patrick MacFarland · Updated February 23, 2024

Your Pet's Journey Matters!

  • Fast and easy
  • Only pay when you book
Airline policies, flying with pets.

Traveling with a pet can be a rewarding experience and can even help reduce stress during the journey. But before you book your ticket, make sure that the airline you’re flying with allows pets onboard. Pets may not always be allowed in the cabin, so it’s important to do your research and understand the airline’s policies. In this blog post, we’ll talk about pet travel, discuss which airlines allow flying with pets and what policies they have in place.

Airlines That Allow Flying with Pets

Remember, any costs below are in addition to your own ticket or the round trip airfare for an air nanny. Air travel may seem like the most affordable pet transport option but small costs can add up quickly.

American Airlines

American Airlines allows small pets, dogs and cats that are at least 8 weeks old and weigh at least 20 pounds to be brought onboard. The fee for bringing a pet onboard is $125 each way, and it must be paid at the ticket counter.

Pets must be in a kennel that meets the airline’s size requirements and must fit under the seat in front of you. If your pet is too large to ride in the cabin, you can pay more and transport him via American Airlines Cargo.

United Airlines

United Airlines allows small cats and dogs to fly in the cabin. The airline charges a $125 one-way fee for bringing a pet onboard. You pay the fee at the ticket counter.

If you have a small pet, you’ll have to put them in a pet carrier under the seat in front of you. United Airlines does not allow pets in the cargo hold.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines allows small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin. The fee for bringing a pet onboard is $95 each way and must be paid at the ticket counter.

Your furry friend must be in a kennel and your adorable pet should be placed under the seat in front of you. Larger pets are not permitted in the cargo hold.

Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines allows small dogs and cats to be brought onboard. The fee for bringing a pet onboard is $125 each way and must be paid at the ticket counter.

Pets may not wander around the aircraft and stay in a carrier under the seat in front of you. Delta Airlines typically allows pets through their cargo program, but unfortunately they suspended its pet cargo program since COVID.

JetBlue

JetBlue allows small cats and dogs onboard. The fee for bringing a pet onboard is $100 each way and must be paid at the ticket counter.

Like the other airlines, your pet needs to be in a carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. Unfortunately, JetBlue doesn’t allow pets to go in cargo.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is a very pet-friendly airline. The airline allows small cats and dogs onboard. The fee for bringing a pet onboard is $100 each way and must be paid at the ticket counter. Pets must be in a carrier and placed under the seat in front of you. They also allow pets in the cargo hold, which is great news if you have larger dogs or pets.

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines, another pet-friendly airline, allows pets in the cabin and also allows pets in cargo. They allow dogs, cats, and household birds. There are several restrictions when it comes to some airports in North America. For the most part, airlines allow the pet to travel anywhere domestically. The fees for traveling within Hawaiian are quite low — $60 one way in the cargo hold. If you’re flying to North America, it costs $225 one way in the cargo hold.

What to Expect When Flying with Your Pet

Flight Fees

Most airlines charge a fee for bringing a pet onboard, ranging from $95-$125 each way. It is important to note that some airlines may charge additional fees for connecting flights and international flights.

Types of Pets Allowed

Most airlines only allow small cats and dogs onboard. However, some airlines may allow other types of pets, such as birds or rabbits, as long as they meet the airline’s size requirements. Also, airlines usually allow one or two pets on board, so call to book well in advance.

Airlines’ Requirements

Most airlines require that pets be in a kennel that meets the airline’s size requirements and must fit under the seat in front of you. However, buy a carrier that gives room for your pet to be comfortable. Additionally, some airlines require you get your pet vaccinated and present a health certificate from a veterinarian.

Tips for Flying with Your Pet

Research and Prepare Ahead of Time

It is important to research the airline’s policies and requirements for bringing a pet onboard. Check the airline’s website for their most up-to-date policies and fees.

Make Sure Your Pet is Comfortable

Your pet should be comfortable and secure in the kennel. Bring a blanket or toy to make the experience more enjoyable for your pet.

Know What to Pack

Make sure to bring everything you need for your pet, such as food, water, treats, and any medications they may need. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a “pet kit”, which may include items such as a scoop, waste bags and a brush.

Bottom Line

Traveling with your pet can be a great experience, but it’s important to make sure that the airline you’re flying with allows pets onboard. Research the airline’s policies and requirements and make sure to bring everything you need for your pet. With the right preparation, flying with your pet can be a stress-free experience.