Den kompletta guiden till flygresor med husdjur, uppdelad av flygbolag

Så du vill resa någonstans med flyg, men du kan inte fatta att du lämnar ditt husdjur hemma? Om du funderar på att ta med ett husdjur på ett flygplan, är det viktigt att utbilda dig själv i riktlinjerna och guiderna för det specifika flygbolaget du reser med – för tyvärr är reglerna för husdjursresor inte en storlek som passar alla.

Överväldigad? Var inte det. Vi har dig täckt. Här är en praktisk guide till husdjurspolicyerna för de stora amerikanska flygbolagen.

American Airlines husdjurspolicy

American Airlines husdjurspolicy

​American Airlines officiella husdjurspolicy:

Från och med april 2021, på grund av flygändringar, kontrolleras husdjur inte längre med undantag för aktiv tjänstgörande amerikansk militärpersonal som reser på uppdrag. men under normala förhållanden:"Beroende på djurens ras, storlek och krav kan de resa som handbagage, kontrolleras eller transporteras med American Airlines Cargo. Med undantag för ett fåtal rasrestriktioner får du endast resa med katter och hundar." Du kan resa med ett husdjur på de flesta flygningar på upp till 11 timmar och 30 minuter eller flyg till/från Nordamerika, Centralamerika och Puerto Rico, St. Croix och St. Thomas.

Kostnad:

Kostnaden för att resa med ett husdjur på American Airlines beror på hur du vill transportera djuret.

• ​Kontrollerade husdjur inom och mellan USA och Kanada, Mexiko, Central- och Sydamerika och Karibien: Kontrollera med flygbolaget när de återupptar att ta emot incheckade husdjur.
• ​Bärbara husdjur inom och mellan USA och Kanada, Mexiko, Centralamerika, Colombia och Karibien (baserat på specifika lands inresepolicy): ​ $125 per kennel
• ​Servicedjur till och från alla destinationer: Ingen kostnad.

​Regler för att resa med handbagage husdjur på American Airlines:

• ​Hur många handbagagedjur kan passagerare ta med sig på American Airlines? 1 per kund. Du kan resa med din husdjursbärare och en personlig sak, men du får inte ta med en handbagage utöver en husdjursbärare och personliga föremål. Istället kommer kenneln att ersätta din handbagage.
• ​Hur kan husdjur åka i kabinen på American Airlines? Husdjur som rider i kabinen måste stanna i en kennel, under sätet framför sin ägare under hela flygningen.
• ​Hur mycket kostar det att ta med ett handbagagedjur på American Airlines? ​ $125 per kennel.
• ​Hur stort kan ett handbagagedjur vara på American Airlines? Djuret måste få plats i en kennel som får plats under sätet framför passageraren som de reser med. Djuret måste också kunna stå upp, vända sig och lägga sig i en naturlig position i sin kennel, utan att vidröra någon sida eller toppen av kenneln.
• ​Vilka typer av kennlar är tillåtna på American Airlines? AA kräver inte en specifik typ eller märke av kennel, men kräver att icke-hopfällbara kennlar inte överstiger måtten under sätet för något flygplan som ingår i passagerarens resa och att mjuka hopfällbara kennlar "får plats under sätet utan att ha för att överdrivet kollapsa kenneln" och mjuka kennelar måste också "vara säkra, vadderade, gjorda av vattenavvisande material och ha nylonnätventilation på 2 eller flera sidor." American Airlines rekommenderar att passagerare kontaktar reservationer för att verifiera maximala dimensioner för sina resor.
• ​Hur många husdjur kan åka i kabinen på ett givet flyg? AA begränsar resor till sällskapsdjur med handbagage till sju kennlar per flygning på amerikanska flygningar (exklusive tjänstedjur) och fem kennlar på flygningar med American Eagle (med max ett handbagagedjur i första klass).
• ​Kan husdjur flyga handbagage på First och Business Class på American Airlines? Ja, men det finns ytterligare begränsningar inblandade. "Djur måste förbli i sin kennel under din flygning och kommer att behöva placeras i ett särskilt djurvänligt fack längst fram på planet under taxi, start, landning och turbulens", förklarar AA sin First/Business Class-policy . Dessutom får den kombinerade vikten av bäraren och ditt husdjur inte överstiga 20 pund, och husdjuret och kenneln kommer att vägas vid incheckningen.

​Regler för att resa med kontrollerade husdjur på American Airlines:

• ​Hur många kontrollerade husdjur kan passagerare ta med sig på American Airlines? ​ 2 per kund, så länge som djuren uppfyller flygbolagets övriga krav på ålder, hälsa och storlek.
• ​Hur många incheckade husdjur tillåter American Airlines på ett givet flyg? Även om det inte finns några strikta maxgränser för antalet kontrollerade husdjur per flygning, som det finns för handbagagedjur, noterar AA att kapaciteten är begränsad och att incheckade husdjur accepteras enligt först till kvarn-principen, så det är viktigt att göra arrangemang tidigt. Passagerare som vill kontrollera husdjur måste meddela bokningar minst 48 timmar före resan.
• ​Vilken dokumentation krävs för att kontrollera ett husdjur med American Airlines? AA kräver att passagerare som reser med kontrollerade djur ska tillhandahålla hälsointyg för varje djur. Intyget måste utfärdas av en veterinär inom 10 dagar från ditt resdatum och inom 60 dagar från din hemresa för resa på samma biljett – 10 dagars regeln gäller om din hemresa bokas på en separat biljett). Passagerare som reser med kontrollerade husdjur måste också tillhandahålla ett skriftligt intyg om att deras husdjur har matats och erbjudits vatten inom fyra timmar efter det att de lämnats av med flygbolaget och att djuret är "säkert och synligt fäst vid utsidan av kenneln. "
• ​Vilka typer av instruktioner bör du förbereda om du kontrollerar ett husdjur på American Airlines? Alla som kontrollerar ett husdjur med AA kommer också att behöva tillhandahålla matnings- och vattningsinstruktioner under en 24-timmarsperiod - och flygbolaget accepterar inte "ingen mat eller vatten" som instruktioner om inte den anteckningen kommer direkt från en veterinär.
• ​Vilka storlekskrav har American Airlines när det gäller kennlar för kontrollerade husdjur? Varje kennel för ett kontrollerat husdjur måste vara tillräckligt stort för att djuret ska kunna stå, vända sig, sitta och ligga ner i en naturlig position (utan att röra någon sida eller toppen av behållaren) och får inte överskrida den maximala storlekskraven för flygplanet. passageraren reser vidare.
• ​Vilka typer av kennlar är tillåtna för kontrollerade husdjur på American Airlines? AA kräver att kennlar för kontrollerade djur är gjorda av trä, metall, plast eller liknande material och har en dörr gjord av svetsad eller gjuten metall som är säkrad och fäst. Kenneln måste också säkras upptill och nedtill med bultar eller skruvar och "tillräckligt styv och säker så att djuret inte kan fly genom springor eller sticka någon kroppsdel ​​genom behållaren." Flygbolaget kräver också att passagerare som reser med kontrollerade djur personligen säkrar alla fyra hörn av deras djurs kennel med frigöringskablar (som flygbolaget tillhandahåller). Kenneln måste också ha ventilation på minst tre sidor för inrikesresor i USA och på fyra sidor för internationella resor. Rent praktiskt kräver AA också att kennelar är läcksäkra, rena och fodrade med något slags absorberande material.
• ​Vad mer behöver jag "packa" för ett kontrollerat husdjur på American Airlines? AA kräver att passagerare som kontrollerar ett husdjur inkluderar separata diskar för mat och vatten som är säkert fastsatta inuti kenneln och att de fäster en liten påse med mat (tillräckligt för en 24-timmarsperiod) till toppen av kenneln.
• ​Kan flera djur resa i samma kennel när de kontrolleras på American Airlines? AA tillåter passagerare att resa med upp till två husdjur i samma kennel när de transporterar unga djur (mellan 8 veckor och 6 månader gamla) så länge de är av samma art, är lika stora och väger mindre än 20 pund vardera .
• ​Bör du lugna ditt husdjur innan du kontrollerar det för resor med American Airlines? ​ AA accepterar inte hushållshundar och -katter som har blivit sövda eller lugnade.

Se American Airlines webbplats för husdjurspolicy för flygplan och anslutningsbegränsningar för kontrollerade husdjur.

​Regler för att resa med emotionella stöddjur och psykiatriska servicedjur på American Airlines:

• American Airlines accepterar inte längre emotionellt stöddjur eller psykiatriska servicedjur. Alla ESA:er måste resa som husdjur och följa husdjursbegränsningarna.

​Regler för att resa med tränade tjänstedjur på American Airlines:

• ​Hur definierar American Airlines tränade tjänstedjur? Enligt AA, "Tränade tjänstedjur har utbildats specifikt för att utföra livsfunktioner för individer med funktionshinder, inklusive men inte begränsat till synnedsättning, dövhet, kramper, rörelsehinder och posttraumatisk stressyndrom."
• ​Behöver du meddela American Airlines i förväg om du reser med ett tränat tjänstedjur? För att resa med ett tjänstedjur måste du skicka in U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form som intygar djurets hälsa, träning och beteende till Special Assistance Desk minst 48 timmar före ditt flyg.
• ​Vilka arter är tillåtna som tränade tjänstedjur på American Airlines? ​ Från och med den 15 mars 2011 är endast hundar erkända som tjänstedjur enligt avdelningarna II och III i ADA.
• ​Finns det storleksbegränsningar för tränade tjänstedjur på American Airlines? ​ Djuret måste kunna få plats vid passagerarens fötter, under sitt säte eller i knät (men knädjur får inte vara större än ett tvåårigt barn). Om de inte gör det kan passageraren bli ombedd att boka om på ett flyg med fler öppna platser, köpa en biljett till djuret eller transportera djuret som ett kontrollerat husdjur.

​Andra begränsningar och överväganden:

​Destinationsbegränsningar: ​ Om du planerar att resa med ett husdjur på American Airlines, se till att din destination är kvalificerad för husdjursresor. I allmänhet accepterar flygbolaget husdjur de flesta flygningar upp till 11 timmar och 30 minuter eller flyg till/från:

• USA och Kanada
• Alaska
• Centralamerika
• Mexiko
• Puerto Rico
• St. Croix
• St. Thomas

För en mer detaljerad lista över destinationsbegränsningar, se American Airlines fullständiga husdjurspolicy.

​Hundrasrestriktioner: AA tillåter inte passagerare att kontrollera brachycephalic eller snubbnosade hundar av någon "blandning". Detta inkluderar bland annat boxare, pitbulls, mopsar och mastiffer. En fullständig lista finns här.

​Åldersbegränsningar för hund: American Airlines kräver att hundar som reser inom USA och Puerto Rico ska vara minst 8 veckor gamla. Hundar som kommer in i USA med flygbolaget från någon annanstans måste vara minst 16 veckor gamla.

​Kattrasrestriktioner: ​ AA förbjuder också kontroll av brachycephalic katter av någon "blandning", en kategori som inkluderar burmesiska, perser, himalaya och exotiska korthåriga katter.

​Åldersbegränsningar för katt: ​ Katter måste vara minst 8 veckor gamla när de reser inom USA och Puerto Rico med American Airlines.

Delta Airlines husdjurspolicy

Delta Airlines husdjurspolicy

​Delta Airlines officiella husdjurspolicy:

"Ta iväg med din favoritvän, även om de har päls. Vissa husdjur kan resa med Delta som handbagage eller skickas som (mycket speciell) last, beroende på deras storlek. Gå igenom kraven och ring oss sedan i förväg på 800-221-1212 för att ordna med ditt husdjur."

Kostnad:

• ​Bära husdjur till och från USA, Kanada och Puerto Rico: ​ 125 USD
• ​Båra husdjur till och från Amerikanska Jungfruöarna: $200
• ​Sällskapsdjur på internationella flygningar: $200
• ​Sällskapsdjur till och från Brasilien: $75
• ​Kontrollerade husdjur till valfri destination: ​ "Ytterligare avgifter kan tillkomma"
• ​Tjänstedjur: Ingen avgift. Från och med den 11 januari 2021 accepterar Delta inte längre bokningar av emotionellt stöddjur (ESAN) på alla Delta-flyg.

​Regler för att resa med handbagage husdjur på Delta Airlines:

• ​Hur kan husdjur åka i kabinen på Delta Airlines? Husdjur som rider i kabinen måste stanna i en kennel, under sätet framför sin ägare under hela flygningen. Delta kräver också att husdjursägare håller sina djur i kennlar medan de är på ombordstigningsområdet och Sky Lounge på flygplatsen.
• ​Hur mycket kostar det att ta med sig ett handbagagedjur på Delta Airlines? Det varierar beroende på din destination. Se "kostnad" ovan.
• ​Hur stort kan ett handbagagedjur vara på Delta Airlines? ​ Ett handbagagedjur måste vara tillräckligt litet för att passa bekvämt och röra sig i en kennel utan att vidröra eller sticka ut från höljets sidor.
• ​Vilka typer av kennlar är tillåtna på Delta Airlines? Delta kräver att handbagagekennlar får plats under sätet direkt framför passageraren och att kennelar i mjuk eller hård storlek är läckagesäkra och ventilerade på minst två sidor. Maximala mått för handbagage av kenneln bestäms av en passagerares flygning och Delta uppmuntrar passagerare att kontrollera med reservationer för specifika storlekskrav.
• ​Kan fler än ett djur dela en handbagagekennel på Delta Airlines? I allmänhet tillåter Delta endast ett djur per kennel, med två undantag:En katt/honkatt får resa med sin oavvanda kull om kullen är mellan 10 veckor och 6 månader gammal och två husdjur av samma ras och storlek som är mellan 10 veckor och 6 månader gamla kan dela en kennel om de är kompatibla och tillräckligt små för att bekvämt dela utrymmet. Djur som får dela kennel kommer att debiteras som ett husdjur.
• ​Räknas en hundkennel som ditt handbagage på Delta Airlines? Ja. En passagerare som reser med ett handbagagedjur måste räkna sitt djurs kennel som sin handbagage. De kommer fortfarande att få ta med en liten personlig sak (som en handväska eller portfölj) utöver kenneln.
• ​Hur många husdjur kan åka i kabinen på en viss Delta-flygning? Deltaflygningar begränsar husdjur till högst två husdjur i First/Business Class och fyra i huvudkabinen på inrikes- och internationella flygningar. Husdjur accepteras enligt först till kvarn-principen. Ring Delta i förväg på 800-221-1212 för att ordna med att ta med ditt husdjur ombord.
• ​Kan husdjur flyga handbagage på First och Business Class på Delta Airlines? På inrikesflyg, ja – men inte mer än två per flygning och inte i kabiner med flakstolar. Husdjur är inte tillåtna på första eller businessklass på internationella flygningar.
• ​Hur gammalt måste ett djur vara för att flyga handbagage på en Delta-flygning? ​ Husdjur som reser med handbagage måste vara minst 10 veckor gamla för inrikesflyg och minst 16 veckor gamla för internationella resor från USA.

​Regler för att resa med kontrollerade husdjur på Delta Airlines:

• ​Vad är Delta Airlines policy angående kontrollerade husdjur? Delta transporterar inte husdjur som incheckat bagage utan transporterar dem istället via Delta Cargos frakttjänst. "Vår specialiserade frakttjänst Delta Cargo tillhandahåller säker, pålitlig, året runt transport, med service för att tillgodose behoven hos alla husdjur som skickas utan sina ägare." Som svar på covid-19 tar Delta Cargo inte emot några husdjursförsändelser. Kolla med Delta för att se när reglerna kan ha ändrats.
• ​Rekommenderar Delta Airlines att transportera husdjur med last? Beslutet är i slutändan upp till husdjursägaren, men Delta beskriver några av riskerna som lastresor innebär för djur och uppmuntrar kunder att rådfråga en veterinär innan de bokar resa. "Transport via last kan vara påfrestande för djur", skriver företaget. "Exponering för okända miljöer, människor och rörelser påverkar varje djur på olika sätt och utgör risker som kan leda till sjukdom, skada, rymning eller död. När du skaffar ett hälsointyg, diskutera riskerna med flygresor med din veterinär. Tänk på ditt djurs ålder , medicinsk historia av redan existerande tillstånd och/eller om den har ångestsjukdomar som kan förvärras under resor."
• ​Finns det undantag från Deltas policy att frakta djur genom Delta Cargo? Ja. Militärmedlemmar och amerikanska utrikesdepartements utrikestjänstemän kan kontrollera sina husdjur som bagage mot en avgift när de reser på aktiva överföringsorder, men måste boka djuret som incheckat bagage minst 48 timmar före resan och husdjur som checkas in som bagage måste följa federala bestämmelser. Denna tjänst kostar $200 på både inrikes- och internationella flyg ($150 för resor till och från Brasilien). Mer information om Deltas husdjurspolicy för aktiva militärer och utrikesdepartements utrikestjänstemän finns här.
• ​Kan passagerare boka husdjursfrakt på sin resebiljett? ​ Nej. Delta kräver separat bokning för husdjur som skickas som last – det ingår inte som en del av en passagerares flygplan – och ytterligare avgifter och avgifter kan tillkomma.
• ​När kan passagerare boka husdjurstransport på Delta Cargo? ​ Inrikes husdjursfrakt på Delta Cargo kan inte bokas förrän 14 dagar före avgång.
• ​Flögs husdjur på samma plan som deras ägare när de skickas via Delta Cargo? Det är inte garanterat. Husdjur som reser genom Delta Cargo måste lämnas på en Delta Cargo-plats (som är skild från passagerarincheckning) minst tre timmar före avgångstid och sedan hämtas på en Delta Cargo-plats vid ankomsten till passagerarens destination.
• ​Kan du skicka husdjur internationellt genom Delta Airlines? ​ Per Delta's website, "Delta Cargo only accepts international pet shipments from known shipping companies. Delta requires international customers use a pet shipper, approved by the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association. Customers would then need to follow acceptance procedures set by the shipper."
• ​What documentation is required to ship a pet with Delta Airlines? ​ Delta requires customers shipping pets at cargo to provide a health certificate for the animal. The dated certificate has to be be issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of transport and must include the shipper's name and address, tag numbers or tattoos assigned to the animal, the age of the animal being shipped (animals must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned for domestic shipping travel), a statement that the animal is in good health, a list of administered inoculations, when applicable, the signature of the veterinarian.
• ​What kinds of instructions should you prepare if you're shipping a pet on Delta Airlines? ​ Customers hoping to ship their pet through Delta Cargo must complete a live animal checklist and confirm that their animal has been offered food and water within 4 hours of check-in. Customers shipping animals must also provide Delta with feeding and watering instructions for a 24-hour period and food for in-transit feeding, if necessary.
• ​Should you sedate your pet before shipping it for travel with Delta Airlines? ​Because the use of pet tranquilizers at high altitudes is unpredictable, Delta requires written consent from a vet to sedate any animal shipped through Delta Cargo. What's more, the airline doesn't allow the sedation of shipped household dogs and cats at all.

​Rules for traveling with Emotional Support Animals and Psychiatric Service Animals on Delta Airlines: ​

• Delta no longer recognizes emotional support or animals as service animals beginning Jan. 11, 2021. Any ESAs must travel as pets and follow the pet restrictions.

​Rules for traveling with Trained Service Animals on Delta Airlines:

• ​Do you need to notify Delta Airlines in advance if traveling with a trained service animal? ​ Customers must submit the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form for validation prior to their flight attesting to the animal's health, training, and behavior.
• ​What species and breeds are allowed as trained service animals on Delta Airlines? ​ As of Jan. 11, 2021, Delta will only accept trained service animals that are dogs.
• ​Are there size restrictions for trained service animals on Delta Airlines? ​ The size of the animal must not exceed the "footprint" of the passenger's seat.
• ​What documentation is required to fly with a trained service animal on Delta Airlines? ​ Customers must submit the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form for validation prior to their flight attesting to the animal's health, training and behavior.

More information about Delta Airlines' service animal policies and FAQs are available here.

​Other restrictions and considerations: ​

​Destination restrictions: ​ Pets aren't allowed to travel in cabin on Delta Airlines flights to (this does not include trained service animals):

• Australia
• Barbados
• Dakar
• Dubai
• Hong Kong
• Iceland
• Jamaica
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates
• Hawaii

See a full list of destination and connection restrictions on Delta Airlines here.

​Species restrictions: ​ Delta allows household birds on domestic U.S. flights only excluding Hawaii, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Guam. They must be able to fit in a small, ventilated pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

​Age restrictions: ​ Delta doesn't impose a maximum age limit for animals traveling by air, but notes that impaired vision or hearing, heart, liver or kidney disease, cancer, arthritis, diabetes, senility, and weakness can often impact older animals and strongly encourages passengers traveling with older animals to consult a vet.

​Breed restrictions: ​ Delta does not permit brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats and their mixes on Delta or Delta Connection flights. See Delta Cargo for a full list of restricted dog and cat breeds.

​Weather restrictions: ​ Delta imposes seasonal restrictions on pet travel for the animals' safety and doesn't ship animals during extreme weather, including temperatures that exceeds 80˚F (27˚C) or fall below 20˚F (-7˚C). Delta also requires a Certificate of Acclimation for animals traveling when temperatures fall between 20˚F (-7˚C) and 45˚F (7˚C).

United Airlines Pet Policy

United Airlines pet policy

​Cost: ​

• ​Carry-on pets: ​ $125
• ​Checked pets to any destination: ​ United has suspended all pet shipping and military pet transportation until further notice.
• ​Service animals: ​ No charge

​Rules for traveling with carry-on pets on United Airlines: ​

• ​What animals are eligible to ride in-cabin on United Airlines? ​ Per United's website, "In-cabin pets are domesticated cats and dogs that travel in the aircraft cabin with a customer." Birds and rabbits are no longer allowed.
• ​How can pets ride in-cabin on United Airlines? ​ Pets riding in the cabin must stay in a kennel, under the seat in front of their owner throughout the entire flight.
• ​How much does it cost to bring a carry-on pet on United Airlines? ​ $125
• ​Can a passenger fly with more than one pet on United Airlines? ​ Yes, technically—but they would have to buy an extra seat ​and ​ pay the additional $125 pet fee. Even then, the second pet would have to stay under the extra seat, not in the seat next to its owner.
• ​How big can a carry-on pet be on United Airlines? ​ A carry-on pet must be small enough to fit comfortably and move around in a kennel without touching or protruding from the sides of the enclosure.
• ​What kinds of kennels are allowed on United Airlines? ​ United allows both hard-sided and soft-sided kennels, but either way, the kennel must fit completely under the seat in front of the customer and remain there at all times. The maximum dimensions for hard-sided kennels are 17.5 inches long x 12 inches wide x 7.5 inches high (44 cm x 30 cm x 19 cm). The recommended maximum dimensions for soft-sided kennels are 18 inches long x 11 inches wide x 11 inches high (46 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm). Soft-sided pet carriers may exceed these dimensions slightly, as they are collapsible and able to conform to under-seat space without blocking the aisle (on Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, soft-sided kennels must be no higher than 10 inches).
• ​Can more than one animal share a carry-on kennel on United Airlines? ​ Only one pet is allowed in a kennel.
• ​How many pets can ride in-cabin on a given United flight? ​ United only notes that pet travel is booked on an "as available" basis.

More details about United Airlines' in-cabin pet policies are available here.

​Rules for traveling with checked pets on United Airlines: ​

• ​What is United Airlines' policy regarding checked pets? ​ United, as a general rule, does not transport pets as checked luggage and instead transports them via its PetSafe service. As of April 2021, PetSafe has been suspended.
• ​Are there exceptions to United's policy of shipping animals through its PetSafe program? ​ As of April 2021, military pet transport through PetSafe has been suspended.
• ​Are there any health restrictions for pets flying through United's PetSafe program? ​ United requires original health certificates for all cats and dogs, and they need to be issued and signed by a licensed veterinarian. Unites says "older pets and very young pets are more sensitive to stress from traveling. We recommend talking with your vet about additional health screenings your pet might need and to learn about their health risks during their trip."
• ​Are there breed restrictions for pets flying through United's PetSafe program? ​ Yes. There are many breeds that United and PetSafe will not accept. See the full list here.
• ​Is every travel booking eligible for PetSafe? ​ United will not accept PetSafe itineraries with more than three segments (or two connections). Moreover, to comply with the Animal Welfare Act, dogs and cats are required to have a comfort stop if the total length of their journey is more than 24 hours.
• ​What kind of crate is required when shipping pets through United's PetSafe problem? ​ United requires animals traveling through PetSafe to use an approved crate that meets United Airlines, USDA, and International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements and recommends purchasing one directly through Petmate. United requires PetSafe users to submit photos of their kennel for pre-approval after booking. Crates cannot be larger that 34 inches high and must be large enough for the animal inside to stand, turn around normally while standing, sit up and lie down in a natural position.
• ​Can more than one animal share a crate using United's PetSafe program? ​ Generally, no. The only exception is that two kittens or puppies younger than six months can travel in a crate together as long as they're similar in size and weigh less than 20 pounds each, but the crate must be large enough for the animals to move around freely.
• ​What documentation is required to ship a pet with United Airlines? ​ United requires several documents for animals traveling via PetSafe, including:
  • A scanned copy of their completed, signed and dated Customer Acknowledgement Form
  • A scanned copy of their pet's original health certificate issued and signed by a licensed veterinarian who examined their pet within 10 days of travel (or a shorter timeframe if required by the destination country)
  • A digital photo of their pet's travel crate so United can give the customer guidance on how to make sure it meets PetSafe's crate requirements.
  • A digital photo of their pet clearly showing their face to verify the breed.
• ​What kinds of instructions should you prepare if you're shipping a pet on United Airlines? ​ United requires customers to attach certification stating the last time the animal was offered food and water to the outside of the crate. Owners are also required to attach any special feeding or watering instructions needed for their animal's care. More information about what's allowed and not allowed in the crate of an animal using PetSafe if available here.
• ​Should you sedate your pet before shipping it for travel with United Airlines? ​ According to United's website, "United supports the American Veterinarian Medical Association's (AVMA) recommendation to not transport pets that have been sedated. We will not accept cats or dogs that have been sedated or that appear to be sedated."

​Rules for traveling with Emotional Support Animals and Psychiatric Service Animals on United Airlines: ​

• United does not transport emotional support animals. Emotional support animals follow the same restrictions as pets.

​Rules for traveling with trained service animals on United Airlines: ​

• ​How does United Airlines define a trained service animal? ​ "A service animal is a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is over the age of 4 months and individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability."
• ​Do you need to notify United Airlines in advance if traveling with a trained service animal? ​ No, but it's always helpful when possible.
• ​What species and breeds are allowed as trained service animals on United Airlines? ​ Service animals are dogs only.
• ​Are there size restrictions for trained service animals on United Airlines? ​ United's website doesn't specifically list size restrictions for trained service animals, but it's safe to assume that, as on other airlines, the animal must be able to fit at the passenger's feet, under their seat, or in their lap (but lap animals can't be larger than a two-year-old child). United's website says the service dog is required to be seated in the floor space directly in front of the ticketed passenger's seat seat or within the ticketed personal space.

​Other restrictions and considerations: ​

​Destination restrictions: ​ United only allows in-cabin pets on select flights and notes that they aren't permitted on "flights to, from or through Hawaii and some international cities."

United also reminds customers that they are responsible for complying with all applicable state and country entry requirements when traveling with a pet.

​Passenger restrictions: ​ United doesn't allow pets to travel with unaccompanied minors.

​Age restrictions: ​ United requires puppies and kittens traveling in-cabin as pets to be at least four months old at the time of travel.

​Breed restrictions: ​ United does not allow many dog and cat breeds to fly as a part of its PetSafe program, citing health and behavioral issues as the reason for restrictions. See the full list here.

​Weather restrictions: ​ United's PetSafe program monitors the weather conditions and assess each location's ability to handle pets during extreme weather. They may change your pet's planned travel date or their route if temperatures aren't safe. They won't accept reservations to and from the following airports between May 1 and September 30, due to high temperatures:

• Las Vegas (LAS)
• Palm Springs (PSP)
• Phoenix (PHX)
• Tucson (TUS)

Southwest Airlines Pet Policy

Southwest Airlines pet policy

​The official Southwest Airlines pet policy: ​

"Southwest Airlines allows small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel with you in-cabin under the seat in front of you. All pets must be carried in an appropriate carrier."

​Cost: ​

• ​Carry-on pets: ​ $95
• ​Service animals: ​ No charge

​Rules for traveling with carry-on pets on Southwest Airlines: ​

• ​How can pets ride in-cabin on Southwest Airlines? ​ Pets riding in the cabin must stay in a carrier, under the seat in front of their owner throughout the entire flight.
• ​How much does it cost to bring a carry-on pet on Southwest Airlines? ​ $95
• ​How big can a carry-on pet be on Southwest Airlines? ​ A carry-on pet must be small enough to fit comfortably and move around in a kennel without touching or protruding from the sides of the enclosure.
• ​What kinds of kennels are allowed on Southwest Airlines? ​ Southwest limits pet carriers to maximum dimensions of 18.5 inches long x 8.5 inches high x 13.5 inches wide. Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are allowed, but must be leak-proof and well-ventilated and small enough to fit under the seat in front of the passenger. The airline recommends its custom Southwest Airlines Pet Carrier.
• ​Can more than one animal share a carry-on kennel on Southwest Airlines? ​ Yes. Southwest permits customers to transport two cats or dogs, as long as the animals sharing the carrier are the same species. Customers are limited to one carrier per passenger.
• ​Does a pet kennel count as your carry-on luggage on Southwest Airlines? ​ Southwest allows customers to count their kennel as either their carry-on luggage ​or ​ their "small personal item." Per the Southwest website:"Pet carriers are considered either a personal item or a carryon item. A Customer may board the aircraft with either a pet carrier and a personal item or a pet carrier and a regular size carryon bag. A Customer may not board the aircraft with a pet carrier, a regular size carryon bag, and a personal item. The pet carrier must conform to all carryon baggage regulations."
• ​How many pets can ride in-cabin on a given Southwest flight? ​ Southwest's policy is not to book more than six scheduled pet carriers per flight.
• ​Can pets travel in-cabin on international flights on Southwest? ​ Southwest doesn't allow in-cabin pets to travel on any international flights.
• ​How old does an animal have to be to fly carry-on on a Southwest flight? ​ Dogs and cats traveling as carry-ons must be at least 8 weeks old to fly Southwest.
• ​What are the health requirements for pets flying carry-on via Southwest? ​ Southwest does not currently require any documentation or health records for animals flying as pets.

​Rules for traveling with checked pets on Southwest Airlines: ​

• ​What is Southwest Airlines' policy regarding checked pets? ​ Southwest does not permit pets to travel as cargo.

​Rules for traveling with Emotional Support Animals on Southwest Airlines: ​

• As of March 1, 2021, Southwest Airlines no longer accepts emotional support animals. Any animal that is not a trained service animal must travel as a pet.
  

​Rules for traveling with trained service animals on Southwest Airlines: ​

• ​How does Southwest define a service animal? ​ "A fully trained service animal is individually trained to perform a task(s) or work for a person with a physical and/or mental disability. Only dogs are accepted as trained service animals."
• ​Do you need to notify Southwest Airlines in advance if traveling with a trained service animal? ​ No, but a customer traveling with a trained service animal must present a complete Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation form at the ticket counter or gate on the day of travel.
• ​What species and breeds are allowed as trained service animals on Southwest Airlines? ​ Only dogs are accepted as trained service animals.
• ​Are there size restrictions for trained service animals on Southwest Airlines? ​ The animal must be able to fit at the passenger's feet, under their seat, or in their lap (but lap animals can't be larger than a two-year-old child).
• ​What documentation is required to fly with a trained service animal on Southwest Airlines? ​ A customer traveling with a trained service animal must present a complete Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation form at the ticket counter or gate on the day of travel.

More information about Southwest Airlines' service animal policies and FAQs are available here.

​Other restrictions and considerations: ​

​Species restrictions: ​ Southwest only allows dogs and cats to travel aboard its aircrafts as pets.

JetBlue Pet Policy

JetBlue pet policy

​The official Jet Blue pet policy: ​

"Small dogs and cats may travel in the cabin in an FAA-approved pet carrier that fits comfortably under the seat in front of you. Only one pet per customer is allowed.."

​Cost: ​

• ​Carry-on pets: ​ $125
• ​Service animals: ​ No charge

​Rules for traveling with carry-on pets on JetBlue: ​

• ​How can pets ride in-cabin on JetBlue? ​ Carriers must be placed below the seat in front of you during taxi, take-off, and landing. You may hold the carrier on your lap during the flight. If you purchase an extra seat for your pet, the carrier may be placed on the additional purchased seat during the flight.
• ​How much does it cost to bring a carry-on pet on JetBlue? ​ $125.
• ​What species are allowed to travel as pets on JetBlue? ​ JetBlue only accepts small cats and dogs for pet travel.
• ​What documentation is required for a pet to fly in-cabin on JetBlue? ​ Your pet will need ID tags and a pet license. Depending on your destination, you may also need your pet's vaccination and documentation records
• ​How big can a carry-on pet be on JetBlue? ​ A carry-on pet must be small enough to fit comfortably and move around in a kennel without touching or protruding from the sides of the enclosure.
• ​What kinds of kennels are allowed on JetBlue Airlines? ​Your pet and approved pet carrier count as one personal item and must fit under the seat in front of you. Your pet carrier cannot exceed 17 inches L x 12.5 inches W x 8.5 inches H and the combined weight of your pet and the carrier must not exceed 20 pounds.
• ​How many pets does JetBlue allow per passenger? ​ JetBlue allows only one pet per passenger. The airline notes that it does make rare exceptions to this rule and encourages guests wishing to fly with multiple pets to call 1-800-JETBLUE (1-800-538-2583) for more information.
• ​Does a pet kennel count as your carry-on luggage on JetBlue? ​ Yes. JetBlue counts the pet and its carrier as one carry-on bag.
• ​How many pets can ride in-cabin on a given JetBlue flight? ​ JetBlue allows a maximum of four pets per flight and says "the fourth and final pet must be booked at the airport at the ticket counter within 24 hours of departure and is available on a first-come, first-served basis."
• ​Can pets fly carry-on in JetBlue Mint flights? ​ Pets are not allowed in Mint.

​Rules for traveling with checked pets on JetBlue: ​

• ​What is JetBlue's policy regarding checked pets? ​ All pets travel in the aircraft cabin on board JetBlue flights—the airline does not ship live animals as cargo or in the bellies of any aircraft.

​Rules for traveling with Emotional Support Animals and Psychiatric Service Animals on JetBlue: ​

• JetBlue accepts trained service dogs only.
  

​Rules for traveling with trained service animals on JetBlue: ​

• ​How does JetBlue define a trained service animal? " ​A service animal has been trained to perform a specific task to assist the customer traveling."
• ​Do you need to notify JetBlue in advance if traveling with a trained service animal? ​ No, but it's always helpful when possible.
• ​What species and breeds are allowed as trained service animals on JetBlue? ​ Under the ADA, only dogs and, in some cases, miniature horses are permitted as service animals, but JetBlue doesn't list these or other restrictions on its website regarding trained service animals.
• ​Are there size restrictions for trained service animals on JetBlue? ​ JetBlue doesn't outline size restrictions for ESAs and PSAs, but it's reasonable to assume that, as on other airlines, the animal must be able to fit at the passenger's feet, under their seat, or in their lap (but lap animals can't be larger than a two-year-old child) and that, if the animal is traveling in a kennel, it must fit under the seat in front of the passenger.
• ​What documentation is required to fly with a trained service animal on JetBlue? ​ JetBlue must be notified that you're traveling with a service animal and receive the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form no later than 48 hours prior to departure.
  

More information about JetBlue's service animal policies here.

​Other restrictions and considerations: ​

​Destination restrictions: ​ JetBlue does not accept pets on flights to Barbados and Trinidad &Tobago.

​Interline flights: ​ "Pets are not accepted on interline/codeshare bookings (a single itinerary including both JetBlue and partnership airline flights), regardless of where and how the reservation was booked."

​Benefits of traveling with a pet on JetBlue: ​ TrueBlue members can earn 300 extra points per flight segment for adding a pet to their booking.

JetBlue also offers a pet travel guide for customers, available here, that includes information about etiquette of flying with a pet as well as a guide to pet-friendly hotels and pet hospitals in many major cities.

Spirit Airlines Pet Policy

Spirit Airlines pet policy

​The official policy: ​

"We want you to be able to take your favorite furry friend with you when you travel. That's why we allow small domesticated pets to travel on all domestic flights including Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. in the guest cabin."

​Cost: ​

• ​Carry-on pets: ​ $110
• ​Service animals: ​ No charge

​Rules for traveling with carry-on pets on Spirit Airlines: ​

• ​How can pets ride in-cabin on Spirit Airlines? ​ Pets riding in the cabin must stay in a kennel, under the seat in front of their owner throughout the entire flight.
• ​How much does it cost to bring a carry-on pet on Spirit Airlines? ​ $110
• ​What documentation does Spirit Airlines require for pets flying in-cabin? ​ While Spirit Airlines does not require a health certificate for pets traveling in-cabin (except for guests traveling to USVI), it ​does ​ require a rabies vaccination certificate for pets traveling to Puerto Rico.
• ​What species are allowed to travel as pets on Spirit Airlines? ​ Spirit allows domestic dogs domestic cats, small household birds (except to/from Puerto Rico and the U.S.V.I. ), small domestic rabbits (except to/from Puerto Rico and U.S.V.I) to fly in-cabin as pets.
• ​How big can a carry-on pet be on Spirit Airlines? ​ Spirit requires that animals traveling in cabin be able to stand upright and move about comfortably in their kennel or carrier.
• ​What kinds of kennels are allowed on Spirit Airlines? ​ Spirit Airlines requires that pet containers fit under the guest's seat and not exceed 18 x 14 x 9 inches. The airline only allows soft containers in the cabin—but not the type that allows the pet's head to remain outside.
• ​How many pets does Spirit Airlines allow per customer? ​ Spirit limits passengers to one pet carrier each, but allows up to two pets per carrier.
• ​Can more than one animal share a carry-on kennel on Spirit Airlines? ​ Yes. Spirit allows up to two animals per carrier, but the combined weight of the pet(s) and carrier may not exceed 40 pounds.
• ​Does a pet kennel count as your carry-on luggage on Spirit Airlines? ​ Yes. A passenger traveling with a carry-on pet must count their animal's kennel as their carry-on item.
• ​How old does an animal have to be to fly carry-on on a Spirit Airlines flight? ​ Pets traveling carry-on must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.

​Rules for traveling with checked pets on Spirit Airlines: ​

• ​What is Spirit Airlines' policy regarding checked pets? ​ Spirit Airlines does not allow pets to travel as cargo.

​Rules for traveling with Emotional Support Animals and Psychiatric Service Animals on Spirit Airlines: ​

• As of Jan. 11, 2021, emotional support animals (ESAN) will be required to travel as pets per updated Department of Transportation requirements.

​Rules for traveling with trained service animals on Spirit Airlines: ​

• ​How does Spirit Airlines define a trained service animal? ​ "A dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including psychiatric service animals."
• ​Do you need to notify Spirit Airlines in advance if traveling with a trained service animal? ​ You will need to complete and submit the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form 48 hours before your flight.
• ​What species and breeds are allowed as trained service animals on Spirit Airlines? ​ Only dogs will be accepted as trained service or psychiatric service animals.
• ​Are there size restrictions for trained service animals on Spirit Airlines? ​ On Spirit Airlines, service dogs can sit on their owner's lap, if they're not larger than a lap child or be placed on the aircraft floor, provided it does not block an aisle or other area that must remain clear for emergency evacuation or extend into another guest's foot space (unless that guest gives consent allowing it to do so).
• ​What documentation is required to fly with a trained service animal on Spirit Airlines? ​ You will need to complete and submit the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form 48 hours before your flight.

More information about Spirit Airlines' service animal policies are available here.

​Other restrictions and considerations: ​

​Species restrictions: ​ Although Spirit allows household birds to fly as pets, it does not allow farm poultry, waterfowl, game bird, birds of prey, and flightless birds aboard its aircrafts. Exotic pets such as snakes, spiders, rodents, etc. will also not be accepted.

Allegiant Air Pet Policy

Allegiant Air pet policy

​The official policy: ​

"Allegiant welcomes domestic dogs and cats only in-cabin."

​Cost: ​

• ​Carry-on pets: ​ $50 per segment
• ​Service animals: ​ No charge

​Rules for traveling with carry-on pets on Allegiant Airlines: ​

• ​How can pets ride in-cabin on Allegiant Airlines? ​ Pets riding in the cabin must stay in a kennel, under the seat in front of their owner throughout the entire flight and while in the airport. Passengers with pets are required to check in with an Allegiant agent at the ticket counter or gate counter at least one hour prior to scheduled departure.
• ​How much does it cost to bring a carry-on pet on Allegiant Airlines? ​ $50 per segment.
• ​What species are allowed to travel in-cabin as pets on Allegiant Airlines? ​ Allegiant only allows domestic dogs and cats to travel on board as pets.
• ​How big can a carry-on pet be on Allegiant Airlines? ​ A carry-on pet must fit comfortably in its carrier and may not protrude from the carrier.
• ​What kinds of kennels are allowed on Allegiant Airlines? ​ All pets must be transported in a soft-sided or hard-sided enclosed leak-proof carrier. Allegiant strongly suggests a soft-sided carrier. The carrier may be no larger than 9 inches H x 16 inches W x 19 inches D.
• ​How many pets are allowed per passenger on Allegiant Airlines? ​ Allegiant limits passengers to one pet carrier, but that carrier can contain up to two animals.
• ​Can more than one animal share a carry-on kennel on Allegiant Airlines? ​ Allegiant allows up to two animals per carrier.

​Rules for traveling with checked pets on Allegiant Airlines: ​

• ​What is Allegiant Airlines' policy regarding checked pets? ​ Allegiant Airlines does not transport animals in the cargo bin.

​Rules for traveling with Emotional Support Animals and Psychiatric Service Animals on Allegiant Airlines: ​

• As of Jan. 11, 2021, Allegiant Airlines no longer accepts emotional service animals. Any non-service animal must travel as a pet and meet the pet restrictions.

​Rules for traveling with trained service animals on Allegiant Airlines: ​

• ​How does Allegiant Airlines define a trained service animal? ​ "A service animal is a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is individually trained to do work or perform task for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability,"
• ​Do you need to notify Allegiant Airlines in advance if traveling with a trained service animal? ​ Allegiant requires the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form to be emailed to [email protected] at least 48 hours prior to scheduled departure.
• ​What species and breeds are allowed as trained service animals on Allegiant Airlines? ​ Dogs only.
• ​Are there size restrictions for trained service animals on Allegiant Airlines? ​ The animal may only occupy the foot space of the disabled passenger and is prohibited from encroaching on the foot space of another passenger.
• ​What documentation is required to fly with a trained service animal on Allegiant Airlines? ​ Allegiant requires the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form to be emailed to [email protected] at least 48 hours prior to scheduled departure.

More information about Allegiant Airlines' service animal policies are available here.

Frontier Airlines Pet Policy

Frontier Airlines pet policy

​Cost: ​

• ​Carry-on pets: ​ $99
• ​Service animals: ​ No charge

​Rules for traveling with carry-on pets on Frontier Airlines: ​

• ​How can pets ride in-cabin on Frontier Airlines? ​ Pets riding in the cabin must stay in a kennel, under the seat in front of their owner throughout the entire flight.
• ​How much does it cost to bring a carry-on pet on Frontier Airlines? ​ $99
• ​What species of animals are allowed to fly in-cabin on Frontier Airlines? ​ Domesticated dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, or small household birds may be carried on flights within the United States. The following species are never accepted:Large birds (e.g. parrots, macaws, cockatoos, birds of prey), rodents (including mice, rats, squirrels), beavers, ferrets, reptiles (including snakes), amphibians, spiders, and insects (and please, no lions, tigers, or bears). Only domesticated dogs and cats may be carried to or from international destinations.
• ​How big can a carry-on pet be on Frontier Airlines? ​ A pet flying in-cabin must be small enough to stand, turn around and lie down in a natural position inside the carrier.
• ​What kinds of kennels are allowed on Frontier Airlines? ​ Maximum dimensions for a pet container are 18 inches length x 14 inches width x 8 inches height. Frontier recommends the container be a soft-sided case.
• ​Does a pet kennel count as your carry-on luggage on Frontier Airlines? ​ Yes. A passenger traveling with a carry-on pet must count their animal's kennel as their carry-on item. They will still be allowed to bring one small personal item (like a purse or briefcase) in addition to the kennel or another carry-on bag for an additional fee.

​Rules for traveling with checked pets on Frontier Airlines: ​

• ​What is Frontier Airlines' policy regarding checked pets? ​ Frontier Airlines doesn't allow pets to fly as cargo.

​Rules for traveling with Emotional Support Animals on Frontier Airlines: ​

• Frontier Airlines no longer accepts emotional support animals. Any non-trained service dog must travel as a pet and meet pet restrictions.
  

​Rules for traveling with trained service animals on Frontier Airlines:

• ​How does Frontier Airlines define a trained service animal? ​ "Only dogs will be accepted as a service animal which are trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability. This includes psychiatric service animals."
• ​Do you need to notify Frontier Airlines in advance if traveling with a trained service animal? ​ Passengers traveling with a service dog must complete and submit the DOT's Service Animal Air Transportation Form, attesting to the dog's health, behavior, and training. For reservations booked more than 48 hours prior to travel, Passengers must submit the completed Form no later than 48 hours prior to travel. For reservations booked less than 48 hours prior to travel, passengers must submit the completed Form in person to a Customer Service Agent upon arrival at the airport.
• ​What species and breeds are allowed as trained service animals on Frontier Airlines? ​ Dogs only.
• ​Are there size restrictions for trained service animals on Frontier Airlines? ​ The animal can be placed on the customer's lap (provided the animal is no larger than a child under the age of two) or on the aircraft floor provided it does not extend into the aircraft aisle, occupy an empty aircraft seat or encroach upon a neighboring seat, or eat off seatback tray tables.
• ​What documentation is required to fly with a trained service animal on Frontier Airlines? ​ Passengers traveling with a service dog must complete and submit the DOT's Service Animal Air Transportation Form, attesting to the dog's health, behavior, and training. For reservations booked more than 48 hours prior to travel, Passengers must submit the completed Form no later than 48 hours prior to travel. For reservations booked less than 48 hours prior to travel, passengers must submit the completed Form in person to a Customer Service Agent upon arrival at the airport.

More information about Frontier Airlines' service animal policies are available here.