2026 Guide: How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Pet Unaccompanied?

According to IATA’s 2025 pet travel report, only Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines still accept unaccompanied pets on domestic routes. Whether you’re a military service member or a business traveler, there are times when you may need to send your pet on a separate flight. It’s important to understand the different fees associated with this type of travel, how to reduce the cost, and safety measures to consider when booking a flight. In this article, we’ll discuss the cost of flying a pet unaccompanied, factors that impact the cost, tips for reducing the cost, and safety measures to consider.

Quick Answer: Pet Flying Costs by Airline (2026)

Unaccompanied pet flights cost $150-$500 domestically. Hawaiian Airlines charges $60-$225, Alaska Airlines charges $150. Most major carriers (Delta, United, Southwest) no longer accept unaccompanied pets. International flights cost $800-$2,000, including health certificates and import permits.

Pet Air Travel Costs Breakdown: Airline Fees, Crate & Shipping

When flying a pet unaccompanied, there are several fees that must be taken into consideration. The most common fees include shipping costs, airline fees, and crate costs. Shipping costs range from $150-500 based on pet weight. Airline fees vary by airline and may include a pet handling fee, a pet carriage fee, a pet reservation fee, and a pet check-in fee. Airlines charge $50-150 extra for cabin transport when available. Travel crate costs may also be necessary for airlines that do not accept pet carriers of a certain size.

What Affects Pet Flight Prices? Size, Distance & Airline Policies

There are several factors that can influence the cost of flying a pet unaccompanied. These include the type of pet, the size of the pet, the distance of the flight, and the airline the pet is flying with. Pets over 20 pounds need 300-500 series kennels costing $75-200 and may cost more to fly. Flights that are longer in distance will also cost more than shorter flights. Alaska Airlines charges $150 while Hawaiian charges $60-225, depending on the route.

How to Save Money Flying Pets: 4 Ways to Reduce Airline Fees

There are several ways to reduce the cost to ship your pet via air travel. First, try to book your pet’s flight in advance. Book 21+ days early for 10-30% discounts on pet fees. Second, try to find a pet-friendly airline. Some airlines may offer discounted rates for pet travel. Third, try to book nonstop flights when possible. Nonstop flights cost 20-40% less than connecting flights. Finally, try to pack as many of your pet’s necessities in the kennel as possible. This can help reduce the cost of shipping the pet.

Safety Measures to Consider When Flying a Pet Unaccompanied

When flying a pet unaccompanied, there are several safety measures to consider. First, make sure to research the airline you’re considering flying with. Some airlines may have stricter policies regarding pet travel than others. Airlines require USDA health certificates issued within 10 days of travel. Health certificates cost $50-150 and expire after 10 days. Also, make sure to provide the airline with detailed instructions on how to care for your pet during the flight. Finally, always make sure that your pet has proper identification. This should include a collar with contact information and a microchip in case your pet becomes lost or separated during the flight.

Airline Pet Policies

Here are airlines that do not allow unaccompanied pets for domestic flights:

• Delta Airlines
• United Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• JetBlue
• Spirit Airlines
• Frontier Airlines

 Here are the airlines that do allow unaccompanied pets for domestic flights:

Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy

Hawaiian Airlines is a very pet-friendly airline. It allows pets to be transported in the main cabin and also in the cargo hold, and also unaccompanied if that is the case. They allow dogs, cats, and household birds. There may be several restrictions when it comes to some airports in the continental United States, but usually, your pet is allowed to travel anywhere domestically. The fees for traveling within Hawaii 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.

Alaska Airlines Pet Policy

Alaska Airlines allows many types of animals on the plane. Only dogs, cats, household birds, and rabbits are allowed in the main cabin. The cost is $100 one way (and $105 if flying from Canada). When it comes to pets in the cargo hold and unaccompanied, Alaska Airlines allows a diverse selection of pets. It costs $150 for each pet one way, which includes: dogs, cats, household birds, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, non-poisonous reptiles, tropical fish, and even pot-bellied pigs.

Please note that most, if not all, airlines allow pets unaccompanied or in the cargo hold for international flights. You’ll need vaccinations (like the rabies vaccine), a signed health certificate (called a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection) from a veterinarian registered with the USDA, and an import permit to enter the destination country and avoid quarantine.

What About Flying Other Pets, Like Birds?

The cost of flying a bird unaccompanied is calculated similarly to that of a cat or small dog, based primarily on the weight and dimensions of its travel container. Let’s explore more in detail.

• For a domestic flight, you can expect to pay similar amounts to ship a small to medium-sized bird like a cockatiel or parrot via airline cargo.
• Birds require special travel cages that are different from standard cat or dog carriers, with ventilation on all four sides per IATA requirements, a perch, and access to food and water. These specialized carriers can be an additional cost. It is essential to verify the airline’s policy before booking, as not all carriers accept birds for transport.

Insuring Your Pet During Air Travel

Protecting your pet during travel is paramount, and insurance is a key consideration. While airlines have a certain level of liability for the animals they transport, it is often limited.

• For comprehensive protection, you should consider third-party pet travel insurance. These specialized policies can offer coverage for accidents, injuries, or illnesses that may occur during transit.
• The cost for a single-trip policy typically ranges from $50to\; \$$150, depending on the value of the pet and the extent of the coverage.
• Before purchasing a new policy, check with your existing pet health insurance provider, as some premium plans include coverage for travel-related incidents.
• Investing in insurance provides not only financial protection but also peace of mind, knowing your beloved companion is covered against unforeseen events during their journey.

Bottom Line

Unaccompanied pet travel means shipping your pet as cargo without you traveling on the same flight, so you may want to look for alternatives for your pet shipping needs. You can hire a pet ground transportation service. There are a few reasons why ground animal transportation can be a better option.

• Flying can hurt your pet, especially if they are in the cargo hold. Ground transport will be less stressful, and your pet will be happier.
• With flight cancellations (especially during the holidays), flying can be unreliable because of weather and other factors. Ground transport does not have that unreliability. Regardless of the weather, your pet will get to its final destination in a matter of hours.
• Ground travel logistics are easier for transporting pets and can offer door-to-door delivery, which is impossible with air travel.

If you find yourself in a dilemma where a traditional ground shipping company is too expensive, consider an amazing alternative like CitizenShipper, a peer-to-peer pet ground transportation marketplace founded in 2008, that connects pet owners with USDA-registered drivers. Because drivers compete for your business, you can be assured you’ll get affordable rates. You can save up to 60-70% compared to traditional shipping services. Join 47,000+ pet owners who chose safer ground transport. Our 982 USDA-registered drivers have completed 12,000+ pet deliveries with a 4.9/5 average rating.

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