What Airlines Allow Pets to Fly Alone?

Transporting a pet can be a stressful experience, especially if your furry friend needs to travel alone. Fortunately, there are some airlines that allow pets to fly unaccompanied. Before booking a flight for your beloved companion, it’s important to research the various regulations and requirements of each airline. This article will provide an overview of which airlines allow pets to fly alone, as well as what you need to consider before booking a flight.

What to Consider Before Booking a Flight for Your Pet

Before booking a flight for your pet, it’s important to consider a few things. First, make sure you research the regulations and requirements for the airline you’re considering. Each airline has different regulations when it comes to shipping a pet, so it’s important to read up on the specifics before making any commitments.

You’ll also want to consider your pet’s size and breed. Some airlines only allow certain size and breed restrictions when it comes to flying pets. Be sure to double-check with the airline before booking a flight for your pet.

Additionally, you’ll want to make sure you have all the necessary paperwork for your pet. Depending on where you’re traveling to and from, you may need to provide proof of vaccinations and other paperwork in order for your pet to fly.

Which Airlines Allow Pets to Travel Alone?

There are several airlines that allow pets to fly alone. Here is information on the airlines that do and do not allow pets to travel unaccompanied. The cost of a pet in the cabin is between $90-$125. For the cargo hold, the cost can range from as low as $100 to $1,000.

The pet policies outlined below are domestic (or flying to Canada). When it comes to international travel, usually pets are allowed in both the cabin and the cargo hold.

American Airlines

American Airlines has an extensive pet policy. They only allow small pets in the cabin, so unfortunately you will not be able to have your pet fly alone. There is an exception for those in the military and State Department foreign service members. You can check American Airlines Cargo to see if your pet qualifies for that program.

Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines has a pet policy that includes dogs, cats, and household birds in the main cabin only. You’ll have to find another alternative if you want your pet to fly alone or in the cargo hold. Like American Airlines, this option is available if you are in the military or working for the State Department.

United Airlines

United Airlines only allows cats and dogs in a small carrier in the main cabin. Pets are not allowed in the cargo hold, especially if they are flying alone. However, if you are in the military or work for the State Department, there is an exemption.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines does not allow pets in the cargo hold or to fly alone. Besides, if you’re flying to Hawaii, you can’t even bring a small pet anyway.

JetBlue

JetBlue does not allow pets in the cargo hold and therefore will not transport pets if they are flying alone.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines does not allow pets in the cargo hold, which means you cannot ship your pet if you want them to fly alone to their destination.

Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines does not allow pets in the cargo hold. This means you are out of luck in transporting your pet by flying them alone.

We saved the best for last. The following two airlines do allow pets in the cabin, the cargo hold and the offer pets the opportunity to fly alone.

Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy

Hawaiian Airlines allows pets in the main cabin but also in the cargo hold and unaccompanied. They allow dogs, cats, and household birds. 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 a lot of animals on the plane. Only dogs, cats, household birds, and rabbits are allowed in the 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 also costs $100 for each pet one way, which include: dogs, cats, household birds, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, non-poisonous reptiles, tropical fish, and even pot-bellied pigs.

Preparing Your Pet for Travel

Once you’ve chosen an airline, it’s time to start preparing your pet for travel. Make sure your pet has a health checkup and all the necessary paperwork and vaccinations. If your pet is flying in the cargo area, it’s important to make sure they have enough food and water for the duration of the flight. You’ll also want to make sure your pet is comfortable in their kennel; if your pet is anxious or scared, it’s best to look for another way to transport them.

Bottom Line

Traveling with a pet can be a stressful experience, but there are several airlines that allow pets to fly alone. Before booking a flight for your pet, it’s important to research the various regulations and requirements of each airline. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure your pet is comfortable and prepared for the journey. With the right preparation and planning, your pet can have a safe and comfortable journey.

Patrick MacFarland

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.