For many pet owners, our furry companions are a part of our families. It’s only natural that we want to bring them along on our travels. If you plan on transporting your pet by plane, it’s important to understand the specific rules and regulations of the airline you’re flying with.
Frontier Airlines is one such airline that allows small cats and dogs to travel with their owners in the cabin, but there are specific guidelines you need to follow to ensure a smooth journey. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Frontier Airlines’ pet policy, from the types of pets allowed to the documentation required to travel with your furry friend.
So, if you plan on bringing your pet on your next Frontier Airlines flight, grab a pen and take notes!
Accepted Pets
Frontier Airlines is one airlines that allows pets to travel in the cabin with their owners. But, there are certain restrictions to keep in mind. Here are the requirements for pets allowed on Frontier Airlines:
#1. Small Pets Only
Frontier Airlines only allows small pets — cats and dogs — to travel domestically and internationally in the cabin with their owners. For domestic flights only, you can bring rabbits, hamsters, household birds, and guinea pigs on your flight. Pets are not allowed to be checked.
#2. One Pet Per Passenger
Only one pet is allowed per passenger. If you’re traveling with multiple pets, you’ll need to book an additional ticket and carrier for each animal.
#3. Age and Health Requirements
Your pet must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned to travel on Frontier Airlines. Additionally, your pet should be healthy and up-to-date on all vaccinations.
#4. Breed Restrictions
Frontier Airlines may have breed restrictions for certain dogs, such as pit bulls, due to their reputation as aggressive breeds. Be sure to check with the airline before booking your flight.
#5. Size Requirements
Your pet must fit comfortably inside an airline-approved carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie naturally.
Pet Carrier Requirements
Frontier Airlines has specific requirements for pet carriers to ensure your pet’s well-being. Here’s what you need to know:
#1. Size and Weight
The maximum dimensions for a pet carrier on Frontier Airlines are 18″L x 14″W x 8″H. Additionally, the combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 17 pounds. If your pet carrier is too big or heavy, it won’t fit under the seat in front of you, and your pet won’t be able to travel in the cabin with you.
#2. Material
Your pet’s carrier must be made of a durable, leak-proof material with adequate ventilation to ensure your pet is comfortable during the flight. Most pet carriers are made of plastic, but soft-sided carriers are also acceptable if they meet the size and weight requirements.
#3. Design
The carrier must have a secure and sturdy latch to prevent accidental opening. It should also be escape-proof, so ensure it has no holes or gaps where your pet could sneak out. Some carriers have locks on the doors, while others have zippers. Whatever the case, ensure your carrier is secure and easy to open in an emergency.
#4. Comfort
The carrier should have a soft and cozy interior for your pet to snuggle up during the flight. It should also have a waterproof bottom in case of accidents. You may want to add a blanket or towel to the carrier to make it even more comfortable for your pet. Furthermore, your pet must be able to stand up and turn around in the carrier.
#5. Labeling
You should label your pet’s carrier with your name, address, and phone number, as well as your pet’s name and any necessary medical information. This will help airline staff identify your pet’s carrier and contact you in an emergency.
Pet Fees
Here’s what you need to know about Frontier Airlines’ pet fees:
#1. Pet Fee
To bring your pet on board, Frontier Airlines charges a pet fee of $99 each way for in-cabin travel. This covers the cost of cleaning and preparing the cabin for your pet and providing them with a cozy carrier. Remember that this fee is per pet, per flight, so if you’re traveling with a zoo, you’ll need to cough up the cash for each animal.
#2. Pet Deposit
If you’re traveling with a service animal, you won’t be charged a pet fee, but you may be required to pay a pet deposit. This deposit will be refunded if your service animal does not cause any damage during the flight. So, try your best to see that your furry friend is well-behaved and doesn’t chew on any armrests.
#3. Booking
To avoid surprises, booking your pet’s ticket in advance is important. You can do this online or over the phone. Just keep in mind that there is a limit to the number of pets allowed on each flight, so if you wait too long, you may be out of luck.
#4. Refunds
If you need to cancel your pet’s reservation, you can get a refund of the pet fee, but only if you cancel at least 24 hours before your flight. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck paying the fee.
Booking Your Pet’s Ticket
Booking your pet’s ticket on Frontier Airlines is a simple process, but it’s important to follow a few steps to ensure that both you and your furry friend have a comfortable and stress-free travel experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to booking your pet’s ticket on Frontier Airlines:
- Visit Frontier Airlines’ website or call their customer service line.
- Select the “Traveling with Pets” option and follow the prompts to book your pet’s ticket.
- Provide information about your pet, such as its breed, age, and weight.
- Pay the pet fee and choose a carrier that meets Frontier Airlines’ size and weight requirements.
- Consider your pet’s temperament and comfort level with flying, and prepare them accordingly.
- Pack your pet’s favorite toys and treats in their carrier to keep them comfortable and occupied during the flight.
- Bring along any necessary documentation, such as vaccination records or health certificates.
- Book your pet’s ticket well in advance, as there is a limit to the number of pets allowed on each flight.
Pet Check-In
After booking your pet’s ticket with Frontier Airlines, following the check-in guidelines is essential to guarantee a smooth experience for you and your furry friend. Here’s what you need to know:
#1. Arrive Early
Make sure to arrive at the airport early to allow time for the pet check-in process. Recommended arrival time is at least two hours before your scheduled departure time.
#2. Check-In at the Counter
Check-in at the Frontier Airlines counters to declare you’re traveling with a pet. An agent will check your pet’s documentation and weigh their carrier to ensure it meets the size and weight requirements.
#3. Pay Pet Fees
Pay the pet fee at the counter when checking in your pet. Remember, the fee is each way, so if you’re taking a round-trip, you need to pay the fee twice.
#4. Label Your Pet Carrier
Label your pet carrier with your pet’s name, your name, and contact information. This ensures that your pet is easily identifiable throughout the trip.
#5. Pass Security
After checking in your pet, pass through security. Remove your pet from its carrier and carry them through the metal detector. The carrier will need to be screened separately.
#6. Board Early
Frontier Airlines allows passengers traveling with pets to board the plane before general boarding. This will give you ample time to get your pet situated in its carrier and settled for the flight.
In-Flight Pet Rules
Now that you and your furry friend have made it onboard, there are a few rules you’ll need to follow to ensure a safe and comfortable flight. Here’s what you need to know:
#1. Keep Your Pet in the Carrier
While it may be tempting to take your pet out for some snuggles, it’s important to keep them inside their carrier for the duration of the flight. It is for their safety, as well as the safety of those around you.
#2. Place Carrier Under the Seat
The carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you, with your pet inside. Ensure the carrier is secure and won’t move around during the flight.
#3. Don’t Feed Your Pet
It’s best not to feed your pet during the flight, as it can lead to motion sickness or an upset stomach. Make sure your pet is well-fed and hydrated before the flight.
#4. Don’t Sedate Your Pet
While sedation may seem like a good idea to keep your pet calm during the flight, it’s not recommended. Sedation can be dangerous at high altitudes and cause more harm than good.
#5. Be Prepared for Accidents
Accidents happen, so make sure you have supplies on hand to clean up any messes your pet may cause during the flight. This includes wipes, paper towels, and a spare blanket or towel.
#6. Follow Crew Instructions
Please follow their instructions if the crew asks you to move your pet or the carrier. They are there to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort during the flight.
Documentation Required
Before traveling with your pet on Frontier Airlines, ensure you have all the necessary documentation. Here’s what you’ll need:
#1. Health Certificate
To ensure the safety of all passengers on board, Frontier Airlines requires that pets have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. This certificate should confirm that your pet can travel and is up-to-date on vaccinations. Each territory or country has specific guidelines on when to obtain your health certificate.
- Within 30 days of entry into Puerto Rico
- Within 10 days of entry into the U.S.
- Within 15 days of entry in the Dominican Republic
- Within 14 days of entry into Costa Rica
- Within 5 days of entry into Mexico
#2. Vaccination Records
It’s important to bring your pet’s vaccination records when traveling, as you may be required to show proof of their vaccinations at the airport. Be sure to check the specific requirements for your destination, as some states and countries have additional vaccination requirements. These vaccinations should be up-to-date. Follow country guidelines for additional information.
#3. Pet Identification
If your pet gets lost or separated from you during travel, it’s crucial to have proper identification on them. This can include a collar with a tag containing your contact information or a microchip implant.
#4. Carrier Identification
Your pet’s carrier should also be labeled with your contact information and your pet’s name. This will make it easier for airline staff to identify your pet’s carrier and reunite you with your furry friend in case of any issues.
Special Rules for Service Animals on Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines follows the U.S. Department of Transportation’s rules regarding service animals. Here are the specific requirements for traveling with a service animal on Frontier:
#1. Documentation
Frontier Airlines requires documentation that verifies the passenger’s disability and the need for a service animal. This documentation should be provided to the airline at least 48 hours prior to the flight.
#2. Behavior and Training
Service animals must be trained to behave appropriately in public settings and must be under the control of their owners at all times. The animal should not display aggressive behavior and should not bark or growl unless it is in response to a specific situation.
#3. Space Requirements
These animals are typically allowed to sit at the passenger’s feet or in their lap. If the animal is too large to fit in the allotted space, the airline may require the passenger to purchase an additional seat or travel as cargo.
Conclusion
Frontier Airlines provides an excellent option for pet owners to travel with their furry friends. Following the guidelines outlined in this guide can ensure a safe and stress-free trip for you and your pet. Book your pet’s ticket in advance, prepare all necessary documentation, and follow the in-flight rules to ensure a smooth experience.
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