A Guide To American Airline’s Pet Policy

Are you planning to travel with your furry friend on American Airlines? It’s an excellent idea to familiarize yourself with the airline’s pet policy to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your pet. From the types of pets allowed on board to the requirements and guidelines for traveling with a pet, this guide will provide you with all the information you need before taking to the skies with your beloved companion.

When it comes to traveling with pets, American Airlines has specific rules and regulations to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers and animals. From pet carrier guidelines to pet fees and restrictions, this article will walk you through everything you need to know to have a hassle-free travel experience with your four-legged friend. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you through American Airlines’ pet policy, ensuring a smooth journey for you and your beloved pet.

Key Takeaways

• Emotional support animals and certain exotic pets are allowed on American Airlines flights, but appropriate documentation is required.
• Pets must have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel and be up-to-date on all required vaccinations.
• Small dogs and cats can travel in the cabin, while larger dogs and other animals are transported in the cargo hold.
• Pet carriers must meet specific requirements in size, ventilation, and durability, and there are restrictions on pet size and breed.

Types of Pets Allowed on American Airlines

American Airlines is a pet-friendly airline that welcomes both emotional support animals and certain exotic pets on their flights.

Emotional support animals, also known as ESAs, are allowed to travel in the cabin with their owners free of charge. To bring an ESA on board, passengers must provide appropriate documentation, such as a letter from a licensed mental health professional, stating the need for the animal. These animals comfort and support individuals with emotional or mental health disorders. American Airlines recognizes the important role they play in their owners’ lives and is happy to accommodate them.

In addition to emotional support animals, American Airlines also permits certain types of exotic pets on their flights. Exotic pets include small household birds, cats, and dogs. Passengers must follow specific guidelines and restrictions when traveling with these pets, such as keeping them in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of them. Not all exotic pets are allowed, so it’s best to check with American Airlines beforehand to ensure your pet meets their requirements.

Requirements for Traveling with a Pet

To bring your furry friend on board, meet the requirements for traveling with a pet. American Airlines requires pet owners to provide certain pet travel documentation before allowing them to travel with their pets. This includes a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, stating that the pet is fit to fly. Pet owners must ensure their pets are up-to-date on all required vaccinations.

American Airlines offers a variety of options to ensure a comfortable journey for both you and your pet. Small dogs and cats are allowed to travel in the cabin with their owners, as long as they’re kept in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

Larger dogs and other animals such as rabbits and birds are transported in the cargo hold. It’s essential to provide a secure and well-ventilated carrier for your pet, and to label it with your contact information. American Airlines also recommends booking your pet’s travel in advance, as there’s a limit to the number of pets allowed on each flight.

Pet Carrier Guidelines

The spacious pet carrier allows your furry friend to travel comfortably and securely. When traveling with your pet on American Airlines, it’s important to adhere to their pet carrier guidelines.

The size of the pet carrier plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of your pet during the journey. American Airlines requires that the pet carrier be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It should also have proper ventilation to provide fresh air for your pet throughout the flight.

Additionally, American Airlines has specific requirements for the pet carrier construction. The carrier must be made of sturdy materials that can withstand the rigors of air travel. It should have secure latches and locks to prevent any accidental opening during the flight. Using a carrier with a leak-proof bottom is recommended to avoid any messes during the journey. The carrier should also have a solid roof to protect your pet from any falling objects. To comply with American Airlines’ pet carrier guidelines, measure your pet accurately and choose a carrier that meets their specifications.

Pet Fees and Restrictions

First, let’s discuss the fees. For domestic flights within the United States, there is a $125 fee each way for your pet to travel in the cabin. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of booking. If your pet is too large to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you, they will need to travel in the cargo hold, and the fee for this service starts at $200 each way.

In addition to the fees, there are also restrictions on pet size and breed. American Airlines has specific size limitations for pets traveling in the cabin. The carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you, and the maximum dimensions allowed are 19 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 9 inches high. As for breed restrictions, American Airlines does not allow the transportation of snub-nosed breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persians, as they are more prone to respiratory issues during air travel.

Regarding international travel, there may be additional restrictions and requirements. Some countries have strict regulations on pet importation, and check the specific requirements for your destination. American Airlines also restricts certain countries due to temperature restrictions and other factors. For example, pets cannot travel to or from Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa. It’s crucial to thoroughly research and understand the international travel restrictions before planning your trip with your furry friend.

What are the key differences between American Airlines and Allegiant Airlines’ pet policies?

American Airlines and Allegiant Airlines have differing pet policies. When it comes to traveling with pets, the allegiant airline pet policy allows for small dogs and cats to be taken in the cabin, while American Airlines permits pets in the cabin, as well as in the cargo hold. These variations can impact travelers’ choices.

Tips for a Smooth Pet Travel Experience

First, make sure to bring a secure and comfortable carrier for your pet to travel in. The carrier should be well-ventilated and large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Also, don’t forget to pack food and water bowls and a supply of your pet’s regular food. Try to maintain your pet’s regular feeding schedule, even while traveling.

Preparing your pet for air travel is crucial to ensure a smooth experience. Start by taking your pet for a check-up with their veterinarian to make sure they are healthy and fit to fly. Some airlines may require a health certificate issued by a veterinarian, so check the airline’s specific requirements. Getting your pet used to their carrier before the trip is also a good idea. Let them explore it and spend time inside so they feel comfortable and secure.

Finally, consider exercising your pet before the journey to help them relax and tire them out. This can help reduce any anxiety or restlessness during the flight.

Frequently Asked Questions