<\/p>\n
If you choose ground transportation, you can avoid those problems. Plus, it\u2019s safer and more humane to transport your pet on the ground than via a plane in the cargo hold. It\u2019s also more reliable because you won\u2019t be dependent on weather conditions to transport your pet.<\/p>\n
Why Most Airlines No Longer Accept Unaccompanied Pets<\/strong><\/h2>\nBut let’s take a look at the airlines that fly pets unaccompanied<\/a> in 2026 and learn more about this pet transportation<\/a> question.<\/p>\nAir travel serves many purposes. You can bring many suitcases on the plane because you\u2019re moving to another city (or state or country). You can also bring your pet with you. Airlines have specific guidelines and policies in place to ensure that you don\u2019t have to leave your adorable pup behind.<\/p>\n
Whether in the cabin for a small-sized dog or in the cargo hold for larger dogs, it\u2019s very possible to travel with your pet<\/a>. There are a few rules and regulations, and we\u2019ll explore them in this article. We also give you a rundown of airlines that allow dogs on board, specifically in cargo.<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Frontier-Airlines.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
What are the Airlines that Allow Dogs in Cargo?<\/b><\/h2>\n
The tricky thing with air travel is that each airline has a different pet policy.<\/a> We recommend you visit the airline’s website (or better yet, give their customer service line a ring) to learn the specifics before booking a flight. Some airlines only allow pets in the cabin, and some allow them to be in both the cabin and the cargo hold. Unfortunately, they all have banned brachycephalic breeds<\/a> from the cargo area for safety reasons.<\/p>\n\n- The cost of traveling with your pet<\/a> in the cabin is approximately between $90-$200.<\/li>\n
- For the cargo hold, the cost ranges from $500 to $1,000, but the actual cost is calculated at booking.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
American Airlines Policy on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
American Airlines<\/a> is one of the United State’s largest and most popular carriers. They have an extensive pet policy, allowing small pets \u2014 dogs and cats \u2014 inside the cabin.<\/p>\n\n- Unfortunately, American Airlines doesn’t allow pets in the cargo hold.<\/li>\n
- The exception to this rule is if you’re in the military or work for the State Department.<\/li>\n
- American Airlines outlines the cost and rules of having your pet in cargo on its website.<\/li>\n
- If your pet is a service animal, there won\u2019t be a cost to flying with your pet<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Delta Airlines Policy on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
Delta Airlines<\/a> has a pet policy that includes dogs, cats, and household birds. No other pets are allowed.<\/p>\n\n- Pets are only allowed in the main cabin inside a ventilated carrier under the seat in front of you.<\/li>\n
- Delta Airlines suspended its Delta Cargo program effective April 1, 2020.<\/li>\n
- There are exceptions to this ban on pets in cargo, which include those with service animals and those who are in the military or are in the foreign service working in the US State Department.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
United Airlines Policy on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
United Airlines<\/a> is another airline that allows dogs and cats in the cabin. Pets can be in a hard or soft carrier with the door closed, under the seat in front of you. This is reserved for small pets only.<\/p>\n\n- Pets are not allowed in the cargo hold.<\/li>\n
- United Airlines used to have a pet shipping program, but they suspended this program in 2018 and have no plans to bring it back.<\/li>\n
- However, if you are in the military or work for the State Department, there is an exemption.<\/li>\n
- For the rest of you, if you have a large dog, you’ll have to look elsewhere for flying.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Southwest Airlines Policy on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
Southwest Airlines<\/a> is a popular budget airline with routes all across the United States. Pets are allowed inside the cabin, specifically small pets. Only small dogs and cats are allowed on domestic flights anywhere except Hawaii.<\/p>\n\n- Southwest also does not allow pets in the cargo hold.<\/li>\n
- If you want to fly Southwest, you won’t be able to with a large dog.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Other Airline Policies on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
Here are other airlines\u2019 pet policies:<\/p>\n
\n- JetBlue<\/a> does not allow pets in the cargo hold. They do allow pets to fly with you in the cabin, but if you have a large dog, you won\u2019t be able to jet around the blue sky.<\/li>\n
- Spirit Airlines<\/a> does not allow pets in the cargo hold. Small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin, but if you plan to check in your dog, you\u2019ll be in low spirits.<\/li>\n
- Frontier Airlines<\/a> does not allow pets in the cargo hold. One or two cabin pets are allowed per flight, but when it comes to the pets in cargo, you won\u2019t be able to fly the new frontier.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/pexels-dominika-roseclay-2112010-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Airlines That Allow Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h2>\n
The list above highlighted the most popular airlines, but unfortunately, they don’t allow pets in the cargo hold. But guess what? The good news has arrived!\u00a0The following airlines in this list DO allow pets in cargo:<\/strong><\/p>\nHawaiian Airlines Pet Policy<\/b><\/h3>\n
Good news from the Aloha State! Hawaiian Airlines<\/a> allows dogs, cats, and household birds inside the cabin and also in the cargo hold.<\/p>\n\n- There are different restrictions when it comes to individual airports in North America, but for the most part, your pet is allowed to travel anywhere domestically.<\/li>\n
- The fees for traveling within Hawaii are quite low, ranging from $35 one way in the cabin for small pets and $60 one way in the cargo hold.<\/li>\n
- If you\u2019re flying to North America, the fees jump to $125 one way in the cabin and $225 one way in the cargo hold.<\/li>\n
- You should have a USDA-registered<\/a> veterinarian fill out a health certificate that is no more than 14 days old prior to traveling, especially if you are flying to North America.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Alaska Airlines Pet Policy<\/b><\/h3>\n
Good news from the 49th state admitted to the union! Alaska Airlines<\/a> allows dogs, cats, household birds, and rabbits to travel with you in the cabin. The cost is $100 one way (and $105 if flying from Canada).<\/p>\n\n- When it comes to pets in the cargo hold, as far as the eye can see, Alaska Airlines is the only airline that allows a more diverse selection of pets in the cargo hold.<\/li>\n
- It also costs $100 for each pet one way.<\/li>\n
- Alaska Airlines allows dogs, cats, household birds, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, non-poisonous reptiles, tropical fish, and even pot-bellied pigs! Wow, that\u2019s quite a list!<\/li>\n
- All pets should have a valid health certificate to travel.<\/li>\n
- Certain restrictions, like outside temperatures, may restrict pets from traveling.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/45273712_dog-peeking-out-of-open-plastic-carrier.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Which Dog Breeds Cannot Fly?<\/strong><\/h2>\nSome dog and cat breeds cannot safely fly due to their physical characteristics\u2014particularly brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds. These animals have shorter airways and flattened faces, which makes breathing more difficult. During air travel, especially in cargo holds where temperature and pressure can fluctuate, these breeds face a higher risk of respiratory distress, overheating, and other health complications. Because of these risks, many airlines restrict or completely ban them from flying.<\/p>\n
Common dog breeds that often cannot fly include:<\/p>\n
\n- Bulldogs (English, French, and American)<\/li>\n
- Pugs<\/li>\n
- Boxers<\/li>\n
- Boston Terriers<\/li>\n
- Shih Tzus<\/li>\n
- Pekingese<\/a><\/li>\n
- Chow Chows<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Some cat breeds may also face flight restrictions, such as:<\/p>\n
\n- Persian cats<\/li>\n
- Himalayan<\/a> cats<\/li>\n
- Burmese<\/a> cats<\/li>\n
- Exotic Shorthair<\/a> cats<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Because of these limitations, many pet owners choose ground transport instead of airline cargo. Ground transportation allows pets to travel in climate-controlled vehicles with regular monitoring and rest breaks, making it a safer option for breeds that struggle with air travel.<\/p>\n
Tips for Transporting Your Dog<\/b><\/h2>\n
It\u2019s always a good idea when traveling with your pet or dog to be prepared. There\u2019s the obvious travel tips like ensuring you carry the veterinarian certificates and vaccination documents, as well as having your contact information visible on the crate and your dog\u2019s collar. But here are some nice tips to ensure you\u2019re prepared for the trip.<\/p>\n
\n- Traveling in the off-season can help reduce costs, as fewer people will be at airports, making it less stressful for your dog.<\/li>\n
- Consider the time of year before booking \u2014 airlines will cancel pet tickets if the temperature isn\u2019t between 45\u00b0F to 85\u00b0F.<\/li>\n
- Take direct flights with no layovers because layovers will stress your dog more when they are in the cargo hold.<\/li>\n
- Freeze water in a large crate bowl, so your dog has enough water for the entire flight.<\/li>\n
- Get to the airport at least half an hour earlier to check in early, so that means two and a half hours for domestic flights.<\/li>\n
- Don\u2019t let airline attendants take your dog until 30 minutes before departure; this will allow your dog to remain more calm.<\/li>\n
- Don\u2019t board until you see that airline baggage handlers have loaded your dog onto the plane. This is important to ensure your dog is safe in the cargo hold.<\/li>\n
- Don\u2019t give your dog any sedatives. It makes it difficult for your dog to adjust to the cargo hold temperatures and turbulence during the flight.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Pet Cargo Crate Requirements<\/b><\/h3>\n\n- The crate should be big enough for your dog to stand and turn without touching the top of the crate.<\/li>\n
- The crate should have secure locks all around with pins that extend past the extrusions above and below the door.<\/li>\n
- The crate should be ventilated on all sides.<\/li>\n
- The crate must have your dog\u2019s name and your contact information visible.<\/li>\n
- A water and food bowl should be attached to the door and be accessible from outside the crate.<\/li>\n
- The crate should be secure with hardware fasteners that can easily come off.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Vaccinations for your Dogs and Cats<\/b><\/h3>\n
It\u2019s important that your pets \u2014- dogs and cats included \u2014 are vaccinated prior to travel. The health certificates and vaccinations are required by all airlines, as well as customs officials, and should be presented before your journey.<\/p>\n
There is a minimum 10-day timeframe for completing health certificates prior to travel because airlines and other transportation entities require health certificates to be issued no more than 10 days prior to travel. When it comes to vaccinations, all pets should have the required vaccinations, including the rabies vaccine, in order to travel no more than 21 days prior to travel.<\/p>\n
Vaccinations for Dogs<\/b><\/h4>\n
The list of vaccinations for dogs that are required prior to travel are:<\/p>\n
\n- Canine parvovirus<\/a><\/li>\n
- Distemper<\/li>\n
- Canine hepatitis<\/li>\n
- Rabies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Vaccinations for Cats<\/b><\/h4>\n
The list of immunizations for cats prior to travel are:<\/p>\n
\n- panleukopenia (feline distemper)<\/li>\n
- feline calicivirus<\/li>\n
- feline herpesvirus type I (rhinotracheitis)<\/li>\n
- rabies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Air Travel Isn\u2019t Your Only Pet Transportation Option!<\/b><\/h2>\n
There are other options you can take instead of air travel when it comes to pet transportation. You can travel by train, by car, hire a ground transport company, or use a two-way marketplace like CitizenShipper.<\/p>\n
When choosing ground transport it can be a safer way to travel with your pet. There are several reasons why it\u2019s a better option than flying:<\/p>\n
\n- Most airlines prohibit pets other than cats and dogs.<\/li>\n
- Flying can stress your pet when they are in the cargo hold.<\/li>\n
- Snub-nosed dogs like boxers, bulldogs or pugs are not allowed on flights at all because the flight can pose significant health risks to your dog.<\/li>\n
- With the recent flight cancellations over the holidays, flying can be unreliable because of weather and other factors.<\/li>\n
- Ground travel logistics are easier and can offer door-to-door delivery, which is impossible with air travel.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
The Bottom Line<\/b><\/h2>\n
There can be a myriad of reasons why you\u2019ve decided to travel with your pet. You can be visiting relatives or moving to another state or taking your dog to Doggieland<\/a> (yes, there\u2019s an amusement park for your doggos in LA).<\/p>\nWhatever the reason, when you research airlines that allow pets, a list pops up. There are several requirements and guidelines for each airline that you should keep in mind. If you don\u2019t want to deal with all those rules, there are other alternatives like train travel, driving yourself, hiring a pet ground transport company, or using a two-way marketplace like CitizenShipper.<\/p>\n
Booking a driver through CitizenShipper<\/a> is hassle-free and easy, and it can save you money. The drivers understand your dog means everything to you and will ensure proper, loving care during the trek. CitizenShipper also provides added benefits<\/a> for you \u2014 up to $1,000 pet protection coverage, Booking Assurance Guarantee, instant messaging communication to know where your pet is at all times, and 24\/7 TeleVet access through our partner Vetster.<\/p>\nWhen you trust drivers on CitizenShipper to transport your dog, you will have peace of mind and comfort knowing your cherished pup is in the best of hands. This shouldn\u2019t be a stressful experience. Make it easy on yourself, fill in your dog\u2019s info<\/a> today, and get free quotes faster than you can say pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis!*<\/p>\n*Yes, that is the longest word<\/a> in English.<\/p>\nFrequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Air travel serves many purposes. You can bring many suitcases on the plane because you\u2019re moving to another city (or state or country). You can also bring your pet with you. Airlines have specific guidelines and policies in place to ensure that you don\u2019t have to leave your adorable pup behind.<\/p>\n
Whether in the cabin for a small-sized dog or in the cargo hold for larger dogs, it\u2019s very possible to travel with your pet<\/a>. There are a few rules and regulations, and we\u2019ll explore them in this article. We also give you a rundown of airlines that allow dogs on board, specifically in cargo.<\/p>\n The tricky thing with air travel is that each airline has a different pet policy.<\/a> We recommend you visit the airline’s website (or better yet, give their customer service line a ring) to learn the specifics before booking a flight. Some airlines only allow pets in the cabin, and some allow them to be in both the cabin and the cargo hold. Unfortunately, they all have banned brachycephalic breeds<\/a> from the cargo area for safety reasons.<\/p>\n American Airlines<\/a> is one of the United State’s largest and most popular carriers. They have an extensive pet policy, allowing small pets \u2014 dogs and cats \u2014 inside the cabin.<\/p>\n Delta Airlines<\/a> has a pet policy that includes dogs, cats, and household birds. No other pets are allowed.<\/p>\n United Airlines<\/a> is another airline that allows dogs and cats in the cabin. Pets can be in a hard or soft carrier with the door closed, under the seat in front of you. This is reserved for small pets only.<\/p>\n Southwest Airlines<\/a> is a popular budget airline with routes all across the United States. Pets are allowed inside the cabin, specifically small pets. Only small dogs and cats are allowed on domestic flights anywhere except Hawaii.<\/p>\n Here are other airlines\u2019 pet policies:<\/p>\n The list above highlighted the most popular airlines, but unfortunately, they don’t allow pets in the cargo hold. But guess what? The good news has arrived!\u00a0The following airlines in this list DO allow pets in cargo:<\/strong><\/p>\n Good news from the Aloha State! Hawaiian Airlines<\/a> allows dogs, cats, and household birds inside the cabin and also in the cargo hold.<\/p>\n Good news from the 49th state admitted to the union! Alaska Airlines<\/a> allows dogs, cats, household birds, and rabbits to travel with you in the cabin. The cost is $100 one way (and $105 if flying from Canada).<\/p>\n Some dog and cat breeds cannot safely fly due to their physical characteristics\u2014particularly brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds. These animals have shorter airways and flattened faces, which makes breathing more difficult. During air travel, especially in cargo holds where temperature and pressure can fluctuate, these breeds face a higher risk of respiratory distress, overheating, and other health complications. Because of these risks, many airlines restrict or completely ban them from flying.<\/p>\n Common dog breeds that often cannot fly include:<\/p>\n Some cat breeds may also face flight restrictions, such as:<\/p>\n Because of these limitations, many pet owners choose ground transport instead of airline cargo. Ground transportation allows pets to travel in climate-controlled vehicles with regular monitoring and rest breaks, making it a safer option for breeds that struggle with air travel.<\/p>\n It\u2019s always a good idea when traveling with your pet or dog to be prepared. There\u2019s the obvious travel tips like ensuring you carry the veterinarian certificates and vaccination documents, as well as having your contact information visible on the crate and your dog\u2019s collar. But here are some nice tips to ensure you\u2019re prepared for the trip.<\/p>\n It\u2019s important that your pets \u2014- dogs and cats included \u2014 are vaccinated prior to travel. The health certificates and vaccinations are required by all airlines, as well as customs officials, and should be presented before your journey.<\/p>\n There is a minimum 10-day timeframe for completing health certificates prior to travel because airlines and other transportation entities require health certificates to be issued no more than 10 days prior to travel. When it comes to vaccinations, all pets should have the required vaccinations, including the rabies vaccine, in order to travel no more than 21 days prior to travel.<\/p>\n The list of vaccinations for dogs that are required prior to travel are:<\/p>\n The list of immunizations for cats prior to travel are:<\/p>\n There are other options you can take instead of air travel when it comes to pet transportation. You can travel by train, by car, hire a ground transport company, or use a two-way marketplace like CitizenShipper.<\/p>\n When choosing ground transport it can be a safer way to travel with your pet. There are several reasons why it\u2019s a better option than flying:<\/p>\n There can be a myriad of reasons why you\u2019ve decided to travel with your pet. You can be visiting relatives or moving to another state or taking your dog to Doggieland<\/a> (yes, there\u2019s an amusement park for your doggos in LA).<\/p>\n Whatever the reason, when you research airlines that allow pets, a list pops up. There are several requirements and guidelines for each airline that you should keep in mind. If you don\u2019t want to deal with all those rules, there are other alternatives like train travel, driving yourself, hiring a pet ground transport company, or using a two-way marketplace like CitizenShipper.<\/p>\n Booking a driver through CitizenShipper<\/a> is hassle-free and easy, and it can save you money. The drivers understand your dog means everything to you and will ensure proper, loving care during the trek. CitizenShipper also provides added benefits<\/a> for you \u2014 up to $1,000 pet protection coverage, Booking Assurance Guarantee, instant messaging communication to know where your pet is at all times, and 24\/7 TeleVet access through our partner Vetster.<\/p>\n When you trust drivers on CitizenShipper to transport your dog, you will have peace of mind and comfort knowing your cherished pup is in the best of hands. This shouldn\u2019t be a stressful experience. Make it easy on yourself, fill in your dog\u2019s info<\/a> today, and get free quotes faster than you can say pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis!*<\/p>\n *Yes, that is the longest word<\/a> in English.<\/p>\n<\/p>\nWhat are the Airlines that Allow Dogs in Cargo?<\/b><\/h2>\n
\n
American Airlines Policy on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
Delta Airlines Policy on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
United Airlines Policy on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
Southwest Airlines Policy on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
Other Airline Policies on Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
<\/p>\nAirlines That Allow Pets in Cargo<\/b><\/h2>\n
Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
Alaska Airlines Pet Policy<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
<\/p>\nWhich Dog Breeds Cannot Fly?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
\n
Tips for Transporting Your Dog<\/b><\/h2>\n
\n
Pet Cargo Crate Requirements<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
Vaccinations for your Dogs and Cats<\/b><\/h3>\n
Vaccinations for Dogs<\/b><\/h4>\n
\n
Vaccinations for Cats<\/b><\/h4>\n
\n
Air Travel Isn\u2019t Your Only Pet Transportation Option!<\/b><\/h2>\n
\n
The Bottom Line<\/b><\/h2>\n
Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n