What Are The Pet Policies For The Top U.S. Airlines?

Are you planning to travel with your furry friend? If so, it is essential to know the pet policies of the top U.S. airlines to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Each airline has its own set of rules and regulations when it comes to traveling with pets, so it’s important to be well informed before you make your travel arrangements. In this article, we will explore the pet policies of American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways, giving you all the information you need to make the best decision for you and your beloved pet.

Regarding traveling with pets, American Airlines has a comprehensive pet policy. They allow small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin with their owners for a fee, but there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed per flight. Delta Airlines, on the other hand, also allows small dogs and cats in the cabin, but they have specific guidelines regarding the size and weight of the pet carrier. United Airlines has a similar policy, allowing small dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds to travel in the cabin as long as they meet the size and weight requirements.

Southwest Airlines, known for its pet-friendly reputation, allows small vaccinated dogs and cats to travel in the cabin, but they do not allow pets as checked baggage. Lastly, JetBlue Airways allows small dogs and cats in the cabin, but they have limited spaces available, so it’s important to make your reservation well in advance. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the pet policies of each airline, providing you with all the details you need for a smooth and hassle-free journey with your furry companion.

American Airlines Pet Policies

Now, let’s delve into the pet policies of American Airlines, one of the top U.S. carriers. American Airlines allows small pets to travel in the cabin with their owners. The pet must fit comfortably in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of the owner. The carrier dimensions should not exceed 19 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 9 inches tall. The total weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 20 pounds. It’s important to note that American Airlines only allows a limited number of pets in the cabin per flight, so making a reservation for your pet in advance is advisable.

For larger pets that do not meet the requirements for cabin travel, American Airlines also offers an option for transporting them in the cargo hold. The airline has specific guidelines and restrictions for pet travel in the cargo hold, including the use of approved pet carriers. It’s recommended to contact American Airlines directly for more information on their cargo pet policies and procedures.

American Airlines also provides a service called American Airlines Cargo, which specializes in pet transportation for larger animals or those that do not meet the requirements for cabin travel. This service ensures the safe and comfortable transportation of pets as cargo. It’s important to note that restrictions and fees may apply, and contacting American Airlines Cargo for specific details and requirements is recommended. Overall, American Airlines offers options for small and large pets, allowing them to travel with their owners in the cabin or as cargo.

Delta Airlines Pet Policies

Delta Airlines allows passengers to bring their furry friends on board with specific guidelines and restrictions in place. According to Delta’s pet policy, small dogs, cats, and household birds are allowed to travel in the cabin if they are in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of the passenger. The pet carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated, and the pet must remain inside the carrier for the duration of the flight. Delta also allows service and emotional support animals to travel in the cabin with certain documentation and advance notice.

For passengers who wish to travel with larger pets, Delta offers the option to transport them in the cargo hold. The airline has specific requirements for pet carriers used in cargo, including size and material restrictions. Pet owners need to ensure that their pets are comfortable and safe during the flight, with proper ventilation and sturdy carriers.

Delta Airlines also provides a Pet First service, offering additional assistance and caring for cargo pets. This includes priority check-in, climate-controlled vehicles for transportation to and from the aircraft, and personal handling by trained staff. Delta aims to ensure the well-being of pets throughout their journey with the airline.

Overall, Delta Airlines provides options for passengers to travel with their pets, whether in the cabin or as cargo. By following the guidelines and requirements set by the airline, pet owners can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for their furry companions.

United Airlines Pet Policies

United Airlines allows passengers to bring their furry friends onboard, making it a pet-friendly choice for travelers. The airline has specific guidelines and restrictions to ensure the safety and comfort of pets and other passengers. United Airlines allows small dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds to travel in the cabin with their owners as long as they are in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of them. The pet must remain in the carrier for the duration of the flight and is not allowed to be taken out during the flight. It’s important to note that there is a limit to the number of pets allowed in the cabin, so making a reservation for your pet in advance is recommended.

In addition to cabin pets, United Airlines allows larger pets to travel in the cargo hold. This includes dogs that do not fit in an approved carrier and other animals such as guinea pigs and hamsters. Certain breed restrictions and temperature limitations exist for pets traveling in the cargo hold, so it’s important to check with the airline for specific guidelines. It’s also worth mentioning that additional fees are associated with traveling with pets on United Airlines, which can vary depending on the destination and type of pet. Overall, United Airlines provides options for passengers to bring their pets along on their journey, ensuring a pet-friendly travel experience.

Southwest Airlines Pet Policies

If you’re planning to fly with Southwest Airlines, you’ll be happy to know their rules for traveling with pets. Southwest Airlines allows small vaccinated dogs and cats to travel with you in the cabin for a fee of $95 each way. The pet carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you, and the combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 20 pounds. Only one pet is allowed per customer, and there is a limit of six pets per flight.

It’s important to note that pets are not allowed to travel in the cargo hold on Southwest Airlines flights. Additionally, emotional support animals are not recognized as pets and are subject to different requirements. If you plan to travel with a service animal or an emotional support animal, you will need to contact Southwest Airlines for more information on their policies and procedures. Overall, Southwest Airlines provides a pet-friendly option for those who wish to travel with their furry friends in the cabin.

What Are The Pet Policies For Other Top U.S. Airlines Besides American?

When looking at the pet policies for other top U.S. airlines besides American, it’s important to compare and contrast the rules and regulations around traveling with pets. Each airline has its own unique american airline pet policy, including fees, size restrictions, and specific requirements for in-cabin or cargo travel.

JetBlue Airways Pet Policies

JetBlue Airways allows passengers to bring their pets on board, subject to certain restrictions and requirements. JetBlue accepts small cats and dogs in the cabin, and each passenger is limited to one pet. The pet must be able to fit in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 17 inches long, 12.5 inches wide, and 8.5 inches high. The pet and carrier combined must not weigh more than 20 pounds.

To bring a pet on board, passengers must pay a pet fee of $125 each way. It is important to note that there are limitations on the number of pets allowed on each flight, so making a reservation for your pet in advance is recommended. Additionally, JetBlue only allows pets on domestic flights within the United States and Puerto Rico, and they are not permitted on flights to or from Jamaica, Barbados, and Saint Lucia.

JetBlue ensures the safety and comfort of pets by requiring them to remain in their carriers for the duration of the flight. The carrier must be well-ventilated and leak-proof, and the pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside. Passengers should also bring their pet’s health certificate and vaccination records, as they may be required to present them at check-in. With these guidelines, JetBlue Airways provides a pet-friendly travel experience for passengers who wish to bring their furry friends along.

In Summary

In conclusion, it is important for pet owners to be aware of the pet policies of the top U.S. airlines before planning their travels. American Airlines allows pets to travel in the cabin, as well as in the cargo hold. Delta Airlines also permits pets in both areas, with certain restrictions and fees. United Airlines has similar policies, but also offers a PetSafe program for the safety and comfort of pets. Southwest Airlines allows small vaccinated dogs and cats in the cabin, while larger pets can be transported in the cargo hold. Lastly, JetBlue Airways has specific guidelines for traveling with pets, including size restrictions and additional fees. Overall, it is crucial for pet owners to research and comply with the pet policies of their chosen airline to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both themselves and their furry friends.