can dogs travel on plane

Everything to Know About Flying with a Dog 

By Matt Meltzer , Katherine LaGrave , and Sarah Kuta

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If you’re a pet parent, you’ve probably considered flying with a dog. While it might seem like the best option to keep your furry friend with you on all of your travels—not to mention more appealing than organizing dog-sitting or a stay at a boarding facility—it’s far from a straightforward decision.

Flying with a dog for the first time can be stressful and overwhelming for both you and your pet. There are many details to figure out: What are your airline’s specific rules for non-service pets? How much does bringing along a dog cost? Is your dog’s breed allowed in the plane cabin? Do you have the right equipment and pet carrier? And—above all else—is flying safe and comfortable for your pet?

There’s so much to consider before you take the plunge and show up at the airport to board a plane with your dog. However, traveling with your dog is certainly possible with the right research to inform your decision.

Below, we’ve rounded up everything you need to think about before flying with a dog, from airlines’ different policies and the required paperwork, to how to ensure your dog is as comfortable as possible throughout all legs of the journey.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Can I fly with a dog on a plane?

Can my dog fly with me? Yes, in many cases, your dog can fly with you on a plane, either in the cabin or the cargo hold. However, as you might imagine, airlines have tons of specific guidelines for travelers with pets to read up on. It’s important that you read them all thoroughly, well in advance of your trip, so you know exactly what to expect and can prepare for how to fly with a dog ahead of time.

First, you’ll need to check with your airline to see what type of breeds they allow in the cabin or the cargo hold. Often, certain types of dog breeds are barred from flying in one place or another. For instance, brachycephalic dog breeds with short or snubbed noses (like French bulldogs and pugs) usually can’t fly in the  hold due to breathing issues. Most larger dogs aren’t allowed in the cabin (with exceptions for trained service animals) and will have to fly in the cargo hold. Many air carriers have completely banned specific breeds—like pit bulls—from flying at all.

Always book flight reservations for you and your pet at the same time: Most airlines only allow a handful of pets per flight—typically two to six, depending on the type of plane and whether it is a domestic or international flight .

Be sure to call and make there’s still room for your pet. You might also have limited seating options when flying with a dog. Airlines usually do not allow passengers flying with dogs to sit in bulkhead rows, business or first-class cabins with lie-flat beds , or emergency exit rows. Also keep in mind that airlines will not accept pets on the plane if temperatures are forecasted to be too hot or too cold at any destination along the route. Of course, the weather can be unpredictable, so if this happens, you’ll have to scramble to make other plans.

How stressful is flying for dogs?

Flying is an incredibly stressful experience for all dogs, but it can be especially upsetting for elderly dogs, as well as pups with health or behavioral challenges.

Think about it: Flying removes pets from the surroundings they are most comfortable and familiar with, then forces them into a situation with loud noises, bright lights, thousands of people, a dizzying array of new smells, changes in air pressure and cabin temperature, and limited access to places where they can use the bathroom. Dogs who must fly in the cargo hold are also away from you, their favorite person, in a scary environment.

In addition, consider whether your dog will be able to participate in all the activities you have planned once you arrive. “If the destination is somewhere where the pup will be alone inside all day, boarding or hiring a dog sitter may be better options to consider rather than subjecting the pet to the stress of flying,” says Jennifer Bruns, a veterinarian at PetSmart.

With all of that in mind, it’s probably best to leave your dog at home unless you have a pressing reason to bring them on the plane with you. Even though this might feel disappointing, it’s likely a decision that will be better for your dog in the long run. If you do decide to leave your dog behind, you can hire a dog-sitter, have a reliable friend or family member look after them, or book a stay in a reputable boarding facility.

Another option could be road-tripping to your destination instead of flying. But that would depend on whether your dog handles car travel well and if your destination is within a reasonable driving distance.

Bottom line: Before you book a trip, think long and hard about whether it’s essential to bring your dog along for the journey. “In general, I recommend not flying with a pet unless absolutely necessary,” says Justine Lee, veterinary expert for Pumpkin Pet Insurance . “Ideally, pets should not fly unless an owner is moving permanently or taking a long trip—two to four weeks minimum.”

And if you do decide to proceed with flying with a dog, consult with your vet about food, water, exercise, and medication ahead of time. Experts are divided on whether travelers with pets should sedate or tranquilize their dogs before a flight (even the American Veterinary Medical Association offers a slightly murky answer to this question), so weigh the pros and cons with an expert who is familiar with you and your animal. Also know that there are health risks involved with sedation, and some airlines prohibit this practice or require a veterinarian’s note.

To minimize your pet’s discomfort, look for non-stop flights with no transfers, and avoid traveling over holiday periods when airlines—and airports—are busier than normal, to help reduce the risk of anything going wrong. If your pet has to fly in cargo, also be mindful of the weather at your destination. For trips to warm-weather destinations, look into early morning or late evening flights when the temperatures won’t be quite so high; conversely, in cooler climates, book flights in the middle of the day, when temps are warmest.

Can I buy my dog a seat on a plane?

Most airlines do not allow passengers to buy their dogs a seat on a plane. However, depending on the dog’s size and breed, as well as the specific airline’s rules , you may be able to pay to have your dog fly with you in the cabin.

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Usually dogs are only allowed to fly in the cabin—known as carry-on pets—if they can comfortably fit in a carrier that you can stow under the seat in front of you. A small number of airlines, including JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Etihad Airways, allow passengers flying with dogs to buy an extra seat for their pet. Dogs must still fly in a carrier and fit under the seat to be stowed for taxi, takeoff, and landing (on Etihad, carriers can take up more space if being used with an additional seat); outside of those flight phases, passengers are generally allowed to put the dog carrier on their lap or in the seat next to them that they purchased.

Unfortunately, larger dogs (with exceptions for trained service animals) have to travel in the cargo hold, along with all the luggage and freight. Most airlines describe this as “shipping” your pet. (Yikes.)

While airlines say they try their best to make dogs comfortable in the cargo hold, it’s bound to be an unpleasant experience for your pet nonetheless (and that’s likely an understatement). Plenty of animals fly in cargo every year without incident, but travelers have also shared horror stories about their pets being injured, becoming very sick, or even dying.

Are the potential risks of “shipping” your dog in the cargo hold worth the benefits? It’s something to seriously consider. Additionally, once you check in your dog for the flight, they are completely in the hands of airline personnel until you get to your destination. Your dog will be loaded by baggage handlers who are trying to get all of the luggage and other items onto the plane in an efficient manner. Although they may love pets, they’re not there to pay special attention to your dog. “There are many situations that are beyond your control when your pet flies in cargo,” says Bruns. “Putting your dog in cargo, even on a pet-friendly airline, can be a very risky situation.”

What are the rules for flying with a dog?

The rules for traveling with your dog will vary widely based on your airline, where you’re traveling, and what type of dog you have. Always do research in advance of every trip—even if it’s not your first time flying with a dog—to ensure you have all of the latest information and regulations. If your dog is a trained service animal, then a totally different set of regulations will apply. Look at airlines’ websites carefully to be sure you’re reading the correct information you need. You can also try calling an airline customer service line to get more detail on their specific rules. Here are the pet travel pages for Delta , American Airlines , United , JetBlue , Southwest , and Alaska Airways .

Airlines typically require a health certificate —issued by an accredited veterinarian following an office visit that includes a physical examination—stating your dog is healthy and up-to-date on her vaccinations. The certificate is only good for 30 days, and you’ll need it for both your departure and return. (Many airlines require that your dog's clean bill of health be no more than 10 days old.) If the duration of your trip is longer than your certificate will be valid for, you’ll also have to schedule a vet visit while on your trip to meet the return flight requirements. Dogs must also typically be at least eight weeks old to fly, says Bruns.

You’ll typically pay between $95 to $125 each way for your pet to fly in the cabin with you, though the pet fee varies by airline. The cost of shipping your pet in the cargo hold depends on the combined weight of your dog and their crate, as well as how far they’ll be flying—most airlines offer online calculators for getting an estimate.

Wherever your pet will spend the flight, airlines typically require an appropriate pet carrier or crate. The International Air Transport Association, whose guidelines most airlines follow, has a list of pet carrier requirements (we've also rounded up our favorite airline-approved pet carriers) .

Generally speaking, the crate needs to be durable and have plenty of ventilation, strong handles, and a leak-proof bottom. Clearly mark the pet carrier with the words “Live Animal” and arrows that show which way is up, with a label containing your name, phone number, address, and destination contact information.

Another important thing to research? Local animal import laws for each airport you’ll be stopping at along the way. This is especially important if you’re traveling internationally or somewhere like Hawaii , which has strict customs rules. Many places have painfully complicated processes and long quarantine periods—which could mean you'd be separated from your pet for most or all of your trip.

Some destinations do not allow pets to fly in the cabin, even if your dog is small enough to be a carry-on; there are even some countries and states that prohibit pets from flying to, from, or through on a connection, period. Others have specific requirements that may take a while to coordinate, so it’s best to start your trip-planning process extra early if you want to bring your dog. “Some countries require testing and treatment for disease months in advance of travel, so timing is of the utmost importance,” says Bruns.

Also note there are currently special requirements for dogs traveling to the U.S. from a country the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) deems high risk for rabies . For example, dogs who have been vaccinated against rabies in the U.S. by a U.S.-licensed veterinarian may return from a high-risk country if they have proof of rabies vaccination and a microchip; are at least six months old; are healthy upon arrival; and arrive at one of 18 specific airports with CDC quarantine facilities.

Before your trip, thoroughly research the departing and arrival airports, paying close attention to any pet relief areas. Familiarize your dog with their crate well in advance of your trip so they are comfortable spending long periods of time inside it. You might even consider taking your dog to the airport’s departure area a few times so they become slightly more familiar with this strange place. “Every time I fly with my dog, I look at the terminal map—both the one I'm leaving from and the one I'm landing at—to see if there is a pet relief area,” says Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer with Rover . “This way, if my flight is delayed, I can give him another chance to go. And as soon as we land, I know where to head.”

Flying with a dog: Day-of travel

On travel day, be sure to get to the airport extra early so you don’t feel rushed or stressed. If your pet is flying cargo, most airlines require you to arrive at least three hours before departure for domestic flights and at least five hours before international flights. You’ll likely need to take your pet to a separate cargo drop-off location at the airport. These are usually special hangars on the outskirts of the airport property. Your airline should have a list of locations and hours of operation of the facilities at each airport. This is also where you’ll pick up your pet after the flight, too, so review your departure and arrival airport maps ahead of time to know where to go.

If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, go to the passenger check-in desk, where an agent will ask to see all of your dog’s required paperwork. Once you’ve got the all-clear and paid the pet carry-on fee, you’ll head to security. Deal with your shoes, liquids, laptop, and other items before tending to your dog. Then, remove the dog from the kennel and place it on the conveyor belt; it needs to go through the X-ray machine. Place a leash on your dog in the security line until it’s your turn to go through the metal detector. When it’s your turn to be scanned, TSA says to remove your dog’s leash and collar (so they don’t set off the alarm) and carry your dog through the metal detector.

You’ll also want to read up on the TSA’s rules around dog food , especially if you want to bring a little wet food in your carry-on bag. The agency considers both dry and moist dog food as solid food, and therefore they allow it in carry-on bags. As with all food items , however, a security officer may ask you to remove the food from your bag to get a clearer picture of the other contents in your carry-on.

If the dog is flying as cargo, make sure to attach a current photo of her to the outside of the carrier, as well as a small bag of food so airline personnel can feed it in case of a long delay . Keep a current photo of your dog handy on your phone, too, in case the airline accidentally “misplaces” your pet—it's not likely, but it’s better to be prepared. (Getting your pet microchipped can also help in the event that your pet gets lost.)

Once you touch down at your destination, grab your checked baggage (or, to speed things up while traveling with dogs, only bring a carry-on ) and head straight to the airline’s cargo location. Dogs who fly cargo are typically available two hours after the flight’s arrival, and you must pick them up within four hours or airline staffers will take them to a veterinarian or boarding facility.

Whether your pet flew in cargo or the cabin, take your dog for a walk right away and be sure to give them lots of praise, cuddles, treats, toys, or whatever other positive reinforcement rewards they prefer. (If you're flying with a dog in the cabin and have a layover, stretch your legs—and your pup's—at a pet relief area in the airport .) Though the journey can be complicated, you'll breathe easier once you've both arrived safe and sound.

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How to Travel With Your Dog on a Plane: A Complete Guide for Flying With Pets

A comprehensive guide to traveling with your dog by air.

Travelling with your furry friend can be exciting but also stressful if you don’t plan ahead. Whether it’s a vacation or moving to a new home, this guide will help you feel paw-sitively prepared for flying with your doggo.

Booking Your Flight

Check Airline Policies: Most airlines allow dogs in the cabin or cargo depending on size . Know your airline’s rules before booking to avoid surprises. Some only take service or support animals.

Reserve Early: Space is limited so book well in advance, like 2 months for busy seasons. Earlier is better to get your pup’s spot confirmed. You may face waitlists if booking last minute.

Choose Nonstop Flights: Direct flights are less stressful than connections which increase risks of delays causing your dog to miss their flight.

Preparing Your Dog

Train With the Carrier: Get your pup used to their carrier or crate well before the flight. Practice going in and out with treats. Leave it open in your home so it feels like a safe space.

Desensitize to Noise: Play recordings of airplane noises to get them accustomed. Start softly and gradually increase volume over weeks. You want them feeling calm, not anxious around those sounds.

Health Check: Get vet approval that your dog is fit to fly. Some airlines require a health certificate within 10 days of travel .

Sedation: Calm aids from the vet can help highly stressed dogs feel more chill. But most do fine without it if properly trained and acclimated.

What to Pack

• ID tag with your contact info
• Vaccination records in a ziploc bag
• Leash, collar, and muzzle if required
• Food, water, and bowls
• Favorite toys for comfort
• Pee pads in case of delays
• Motion sickness pills if needed

Pack all items, especially food, in your carry-on in case baggage gets lost.

Check-In Procedures

Arrive Extra Early: Account for time to check-in, potential screening, and get your pup settled before departure. No less than 2 hours advance is recommended.

Have Paperwork Ready: Vaccination records, health certificate, pre-approved shoulder carrier etc. Airlines will review so don’t procrastinate these steps.

Check Carrier Requirements: Sizes differ by airline so ensure yours meets specifications like fit under the seat or in cargo hold. It protects and secures your pup safely during takeoff/landing.

In the Cabin

For puppies or smaller dogs able to fly in-cabin, these tips promote a smoother flight:

– Give them a potty break right before boarding. Pee pads are backup in case of delays.

– Bring high value treats and toys to occupy anxious pups. Stuff Kongs or lickimats with peanut butter.

– Consider a Thundershirt or calming wrap to ease stress during takeoff/landing

– Make an “occupied” sign for the carrier to deter petting from strangers

– Communicate with flight crew if your pup seems distressed during turbulence

In the Cargo Hold

For larger dogs who must fly below, research carriers meeting IATA regulations. Walk your pooch before departure and cross your fingers for on-time flights!

Be Prepared for Delays: Bring backup supplies in case baggage gets rerouted. Pet reuniting services can track lost dogs and provide support if needed.

Request Tranquilizers: Sedation from your vet may be best for highly stressed dogs prone to distress in cargo. Flight crews cannot sedate pets themselves.

Consider Drive Instead: Long haul flights are tough on dogs. You may feel less anxious driving if it’s an option within 12 hours of flying.

From my experiences traveling coast to coast with my golden retriever, preparing her carrier as a safe den and acclimating her to noise was key. With time and positive associations, flying became no big deal! Has anyone else faced challenges getting their dog adjusted? Share your tips and stories below.

Essential Considerations for Traveling with Your Dog by Plane

Can i bring my dog on a plane, what paperwork do i need, how do i prepare my dog for the flight, what if my dog is scared of flying, what do i do if the airline loses my dog.

On the one hand, major airlines have fairly good track records. However, mishaps occasionally happen despite best efforts. If you have worries about your pet going astray, you may consider driving instead. Nevertheless, most pets fly safely as cargo. Make sure to have ID on your dog in case of an emergency. Also get airline contact info in advance just in case.

Is it worth the hassle of flying with a pet?

What animals are prohibited from flights.

U.S. Airline Pet Policies: A Complete List of Travel Requirements

Planning to fly with your pet soon? Read our expert guide to airline pet policies for travel within the United States. Fully updated for 2019.

Editor’s Note (June 1, 2020): Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some airlines (for example, American Airlines) have temporarily suspended checked pet service. Please check with your airline in advance for the most up-to-date information relevant to your circumstances. Even if your airline is currently not taking pets, they still must allow service and emotional support animals.

Flying with a pet can be a stressful experience, particularly if it isn’t something you do often.

Each airport has its own policies and quirks. And on top of that, each individual airline enforces different procedures.

In an effort to streamline the information, we’ve create this updated list of the airline pet policies for all major U.S. airlines, as well as some helpful general knowledge, so flying with your pet isn’t such a headache.

Humane Travel

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has compiled a list of requirements to ensure humane travel conditions for pets on all flights, regardless of the airline.

These requirements address food, water, crate or carrier size and condition, ventilation, temperature and more. Airlines will refuse to allow your pet to fly if they feel the pet will be in unsafe conditions.

Most airlines will not allow your pet to fly if they are in a kennel that is too small or the pet is obviously sick or injured.

Airline Pet Policies

Alaska air group.

1-800-252-7522  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 1 carrier in the First-Class cabin, 5 carriers in the main cabin; 1 per passenger unless an adjacent seat is purchased, then a passenger may have 2.
• Price: $100 each way (cabin or baggage).
• Advance reservations: Recommended (holiday travel restrictions apply).
• Temperature restrictions: Pets may be refused if temperatures at any location on your itinerary “exceed certain limits,” which Alaskan Airlines does not specify. Other airlines have set limits of no hotter than 85 F (29.4 C) and no colder than 45 F (7.2 C).
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats, rabbits and household birds are allowed in the cabin. Cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, household birds, nonpoisonous reptiles, pot-bellied pigs , rabbits and tropical fish are allowed in cargo/baggage. Other pets must receive advance approval. Only dogs and cats are permitted to be flown to Hawaii. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats are not accepted for travel in the cargo compartment on Alaska Airlines flights, but they may travel with you in the cabin as long as you have a carrier that fits under your seat.
• Carrier maximum size: 7.5″H x 17″L x 11″W (hard-sided); 9.5″H x 17″L x 11″W (soft-sided); up to 150 pounds. Full list of kennel requirements for cargo here .

Pets are not permitted in the First-Class cabin or baggage compartment on Alaska Air’s Airbus planes.

Also, Alaska Airlines does not transfer pets to other airlines. You will need to pick up your pet after deplaning and recheck your pet on the new flight.

Fur-st Class Care  is an animal flight program with this airline that offers free pet health examinations and discounted health certificates at Banfield Pet Hospitals located in PetSmart stores.

American Airlines

1-800-433-7300 |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 5–7 carriers per flight (depending on plane), 1 per person.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin); $200 each way (baggage).
• Advance reservations: Required.
• Destination restrictions: Domestic travel may not include Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS) or Palm Springs (PSP) during the period of May 1–Sept. 30.
• Temperature restrictions: No hotter than 85 F (29.4 C) at any location on your itinerary; no colder than 45 F (7.2 C). The cold-weather restriction may be waived at temperatures as low as 20 F (-6.6 C) if you bring a signed note from your veterinarian. Talk to the airline about this possibility.
• Allowed animals: Cats and dogs. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats are not accepted for the cargo compartment (checked pets).
• Carrier maximum size: Depends on the plane, so contact the airline in advance. The usual dimensions seem to be 9″H x 19″L x 13″W (with larger carriers allowed in cargo).

Delta Air Lines

1-800-221-1212  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 2 pets in the First-Class cabin, 4 pets in the main cabin, 1 per person. Space is limited.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin). Cargo price is determined by the size of the carrier. Animals are not included in the free baggage allowance.
• Advance reservations: Required but cannot be booked before 14 days before departure.
• Allowed animals: Small dogs, cats and household birds (no birds allowed to Hawaii). No pit bull–type dogs in the cabin.
• Carrier maximum size: Determined by flight/type of plane. Contact the airline to determine cabin carrier size requirement. Baggage allows carriers of the dimensions 40″L x 28″W x 30″H, and cargo up to 32″L x 35″W x 48″H and 51 pounds.

Frontier Airlines

1-800-432-1359  |   Website

• Price: $75 each way (cabin only).
• Advance reservations: Recommended.
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and small household birds.
• Carrier maximum size: 18″L x 14″W x 8″H

Hawaiian Airlines

1-800-367-5320  |   Website

• Prices:  Cabin inter-island travel: $35. Cabin departing Hawaii travel: $175. No pets are allowed to travel in the cabin when arriving in Hawaii. Checked baggage: $60 (within Hawaii), $225 (when arriving or departing from North America). Cargo: Varies depending on weight of animal(s) + carriers. Call 1-800-367-5320 to discuss your specific needs.
• Advance reservations: Strongly recommended. For cargo, advance reservations are required.
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats and household birds.
• Carrier maximum sizes:  Cabin: 16”L x 10”W x 9.5”H; animal and carrier combined cannot exceed 25 pounds. Checked baggage: From 21”L x 16”W x 15”H and 18 pounds to 36”L x 24”W x 26”H and 70 pounds. Cargo: From 21”L x 15”W x 16”H and 26 pounds to 48”L x 32”W x 35”H and 277 pounds.

Note: We strongly recommend that you call Hawaiian Airlines directly to discuss your specific animal. Some animals cannot be shipped as cargo; others are prohibited from entering Hawaii.

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JetBlue Airlines

1-800-538-2583  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 4 per flight.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin only).
• Allowed animals: Dogs and cats.
• Carrier maximum size: 17″L x 12.5″W x 8.5″H, and the combined weight of pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds.

Note: Currently, JetBlue does not ship pets as cargo.

Southwest Airlines

1-800-435-9792  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 6 carriers per flight; 1 per person (carrier may contain 2 pets of the same species provided they both have room to comfortably turn around).
• Price: $95 each way (cabin only).
• Advance reservations: Required with an in-person payment at the ticket counter.
• Carrier maximum size: 18.5”L x 13.5”W x 8.5”H.

Spirit Airlines

801-401-2222  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 4 carriers per flight.
• Price: $110 each way (cabin only).
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats and household birds (no farm poultry, waterfowl, game birds, birds of prey or flightless birds).
• Carrier maximum size: 18″L x 14″W x 9″H and cannot exceed 40 pounds.

United Airlines

1-800-864-8331  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 2–4 per flight, depending on aircraft, and 1 carrier per person.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin); baggage and cargo rates are determined by size and weight of the carrier. Call United to discuss your pet’s needs before booking your trip.
• Allowed animals: Cats, dogs, rabbits and household birds (excluding cockatoos) are allowed in the cabin. Some breed restrictions apply to baggage/cargo animals for safety reasons .
• Carrier maximum size: 17.5”L x 12”W x 7.5”H (hard carriers), or 18”L x 11”W x 11”H (soft carriers).

Note: See United’s PetSafe Program for shipping animals as cargo.

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Almost all airlines allow properly documented service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) to fly for free.

Required documentation may include:

• Vaccination records (depending on where you are flying to/from)
• Letter from a mental health professional (ESAs only)
• Letter indicating animal’s ability to refrain from “accidents” while in flight
• Proper harnesses, leashes and restraints
• Correct visual aids identifying the animal as a service animal or ESA

Check with your airline to see its specific requirements, but be prepared to have the above documents in hand and answer questions at check-in. Most airlines require in-person check-ins at the ticket counter — you can’t use self check-in or curbside services. Also, ask your airline about boarding early.

Be aware that even if your animal is designated a service or emotional support animal, they may not be allowed or may be quarantined immediately upon arrival to your destination.

All airlines warn that if the service animal or ESA acts in an uncontrollable, aggressive or disruptive manner, they reserve the right to remove the animal and their handler from the flight. Be advised that because of the recent uptick in disruptive ESAs and so-called  “fake service dogs,” many airlines are taking a tougher stance on these animals.

Most airlines allow passengers to buy an extra seat for their service animal or ESA, but otherwise the animals may not sit in seats.

Exotic Pets

Most airlines do not accept exotic or unusual pets , regardless of their status.

These may include rodents, reptiles, arachnids, hedgehogs and ferrets, but this rule can apply to any animal. Call your airline and check the rules before booking a trip for you and your exotic pet.

Hawaii has restrictions of its own to adhere to because it is a rabies-free state and is stringent about what animals are allowed to enter.

Here are some more travel tips to follow when your pet joins you in the air:

Other Important Information

When transporting pets, there are some rules that are consistent between all airlines:

• Airlines will not transport pets as baggage or cargo if the temperature drops below or exceeds safe levels. Most list this as below 10 degrees F or above 85 degrees F.
• Brachycephalic (“short-nosed” or “flat-faced”) breeds of dogs and cats can’t fly as cargo or baggage on most airlines. These breeds tend to have more trouble  breathing in high elevations due to their shorter snouts.
• There are time limits as to how long an airline will allow a pet to be on a plane. If your flight is longer than 8–12 hours or has layovers or transfers, check with your airline to ensure your pet will be allowed to fly.
• Pets count as your carry-on baggage and are not covered under “free” policies. You will pay the pet fee, regardless of whether or not you have another carry-on item.
• You should give your pet food or water 4 hours before the flight. Most airlines do not allow you to feed or give water during the flight.
• We don’t recommend sedating your pet unless absolutely necessary. The elevation and sedation together may create health problems.
• You will be required to provide veterinary proof that your pet can fly. This can be a letter or certificate from a veterinarian and must be done within 10 days of departure and 30 days of return. If you are staying longer than 30 days, you need to have your pet recertified before boarding. Without this documentation, the airlines will not allow your pet to fly. (Service animals and ESAs are typically exempt from this policy, but check with your airline to be sure.)
• When traveling as cargo, your pet is not guaranteed to be shipped on your flight, and when traveling as baggage, pets can get lost — just like your suitcase.
• All your kennels or carriers should be clearly labeled with your name, phone number, address, your pet’s name and their pertinent medical information — and somewhere visible, make sure you write “Live Animal(s)” so airplane personnel know your pet is in there.
• In the event of an emergency, airlines will not provide oxygen to your pets.
• Anyone accompanying a pet must be at least 18 years of age.
• Always prepare to check in early when traveling with a pet. If you have the opportunity to reserve a spot for your pet in advance, take it. Many airlines only allow a few pets in the cabin area, and it’s usually first come, first served.
• Pets should be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
• Several airlines have “embargoes” throughout the year in which they will not transport pets as baggage or cargo. This includes when temperatures drop below or exceed safe levels and during the holidays .

Our Final Thoughts on Airline Pet Policies

There are many restrictions and regulations when it comes to transporting our pets by air, but accidents still happen.

The best defense your pet has is you :

• Educate yourself on what is expected from you, from your pet and from the airline.
• If text message updates are available, sign up for them.
• Keep abreast of what’s happening every step of of the way to ensure your pet’s safe journey.

Don’t leave your pet’s food safety to chance.

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13 of the Most Pet-Friendly Airlines: Stress-Free Flying with Your Dog!

WRITTEN BY:

Kelsey Leicht

January 5, 2023

No Comments

K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

Flying with your dog can be as daunting as it is exciting. From veterinary health clearances to carrier requirements, your to-do list may feel endless, especially given the differences between the rules of different airlines.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help! 

We’ve fetched the basic requirements for traveling with your dog on all of the major U.S. airlines, and highlighted our favorite features. Check out the best pet-friendly airlines and some tips for flying with your pup below.

Quick Picks: Best Pet-Friendly Airlines

• JSX Airlines [Best for Traveling In-Cabin] JSX airlines offer public charter flights that come with a hefiter price tag, but even 60lb dogs can fly in the cabin right at your feet .
• American Airlines [Best Pet-Friendly Major Airline] This airline’s vast coverage area and reasonable fees make it a top-tier pick for those traveling with pooch passengers.
• Allegiant [Most Affordable Pet-Friendly Airline] Protect your travel budget by booking with this low-cost canine-friendly carrier offering cabin fees as low as $50.
• Lufthansa [Best for International Travel] Jet off to your next worldwide woofin’ adventure with this German-based carrier allowing cabin travel for small canines.

Pet-Friendly Airline Info: The Basics We’ve Covered

Every airline has its own set of rules for canine travel, but we’ve tackled the basics to give a snapshot of each. Hopefully, this makes narrowing your options a tad easier.

Some of the things we cover below include:

• Flying with your dog in the cabin . Not every airline allows dogs to travel with passengers in the plane’s cabin. Some limit canines to the cargo area only, while others allow for cabin travel if canines meet specific size, behavior, or containment requirements. Typically, well-behaved, small dogs that can be stowed in an airline-approved pet carrier under an airline seat are allowed, though there are also a very few airlines that allow large breeds to travel via cabin too.
• Flying with your dog in the cargo hold . Some airlines allow dogs to travel in the cargo hold. Housed in a carrier that meets strict safety standards, cargo-held canines generally have less strict size requirements than cabin-dwelling doggos, allowing larger breeds to fly. However, current travel trends have made cargo travel hard to come by for dogs.
• Banned breeds . Many airlines ban certain breeds from flying in the cabin or cargo area. This typically includes brachycephalic (short-headed) dogs, though some providers may prohibit other breeds from flying.
• Rules for emotional support animals and service dogs . Previously many airlines allow ESAs to travel differently than everyday pet dogs, but the vast majority of airlines have done away with ESAs on flights. However, per federal law, service dogs are granted access to planes with their handler, regardless of the airlines’ pet policy. Not sure about the difference between service dogs vs ESA dogs – let us explain!
• Pet flying fees . The cost of traveling with your dog varies significantly from airline to airline, with some pet passes costing little more than a checked-bag fee while others can be a few hundred dollars or more. These fees may change according to your dog’s size and travel method too.
• Weight restrictions for flying dogs . Weight restrictions can be a real bite, particularly if you plan to have your pooch travel in the cabin. Cabin weight limits tend to be much lower than cargo limits, but it’s important in both scenarios to weigh your pup and factor in the weight of his travel crate. This eliminates potential airport surprises, as your pooch is weighed in his carrier before boarding. Generally speaking, flying in the cabin won’t be a viable option unless your dog is under 20 lbs.
• Dog crate size for riding in the cabin . Most airlines require kenneled canines to be stowed under an airline if traveling in the cabin, meaning your dog’s crate needs to meet specific size criteria. These sizing guidelines vary from airline to airline, so always double-check the rules, especially if you have connecting flights with different airlines. In addition, your dog should be able to stand, sit, and turn around in his carrier.
• Dog crate size for flying in the cargo hold . Cargo crates must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements , which include strict size, locking, and ventilation standards. As with cabin carriers, your dog must be able to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably in the kennel.
• Maximum number of pets per person . Most airlines allow one pet per passenger, but some allow two. Sometimes, this means two pets in the same carrier or two pets housed in separate carriers. But just because you can fit two dogs in a carrier, that doesn’t mean you should . Not every dog likes being crammed with a friend while already enduring the stress of travel.
• Maximum number of pets per airplane . Airlines typically limit the number of animals on a flight, which can lead to travel nightmares if you don’t book early. A six-pet limit is most commonly seen, but some have limits as low as two. Yikes!
• Dog age requirements for flying . Like destinations, each airline sets its own rules regarding how old a dog must be to travel. Most of the time, this pertains to puppies, but senior dogs may also face scrutiny, particularly those in poor health.
• Special notes and miscellaneous four-footed flying facts . We’ll note if an airline has any special rules or pet perks. This might include things like special document requirements, restrictions, and more.

While we’re covering the basics in this article, you should still discuss your travel plans with an airline representative to ensure you and your pooch fly without issue. Rules are ever-changing, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.

13 Most Pet-Friendly Airlines 

Ready to take off with your terrier? Check out these pet-friendly airlines and see which works best for your woofin’ wanderlust.

1. American Airlines

Straightforward requirements and a wide service area make this airline our #1 pick.

About : American Airlines is a canine-friendly carrier for most people looking to travel with a dog. Not only do they offer service around the U.S and abroad, but they also clearly spell-out their requirements for pets , making flying with your pup easier.

• Cabin-traveling dogs must remain in stowed beneath a seat in a carrier at all times
• Carry-on pets are not allowed for most international travel or when flying to Hawaii
• American Airlines does not allow dogs that are sedated or tranquilized to fly
• Carry-on pets aren’t allowed in first class or business class if traveling in specific aircraft, including Boeing’s 777-200, 777-300, 787-8, and 787-9
• Dogs in Cargo : Only for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders.
• Checked-in pets must have health certificates dated within 10 days of travel
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic and brachycephalic mixes cannot fly with American Airlines.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, but they must travel as pets and pay the required fees.
• Fee : Cabin fee is $125 per carrier. For active service members or U.S. State Department personnel, the cargo fee is $200 per kennel regardless of destination, except for Brazil, where the cost is $150 per kennel.
• Weight Limits : Cargo travelers cannot have a weight that exceeds 100 pounds for both the pet and crate. For carry-on canines, the carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds if traveling in first class.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Maximum dimensions for a hard-sided carrier are 19” x 13” x 9”, while a soft-side carrier can be 18” x 11” x 11”. 
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Maximum dimensions vary by aircraft.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : Up to 2 check-in pets (cargo), Up to 1 carrier per passenger (May contain 1 or  2 pets.) Pets traveling in the same carrier must be of the same species, under 6 months old, and of similar size.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : For carry-on, the limit is 7 on American flights and 5 on American Eagle flights.
• 8 weeks or older to fly domestically. 
• Age varies for international locations. 
• If you’re traveling with connecting flights, checked pets (cargo) can only connect in limited cities .
• Weather extreme restrictions are in place that may bar pet travel in cargo if destinations are over 85℉ or below 45℉.

Big or small, your canine cany enjoy worry-free traveling with this carrier.

About : JSX provides the comfort of private flights at an affordable rate to travelers across a limited portion of the United States. With its relatively relaxed pet policy , it’s a top-notch pick for low-stress flying with your dog.

@rigatoni_reacts It was kinda private. 😅 #jsx #privateflight ♬ swing lynn – lovdfilmz

Keep in mind that JSX functions as a public charter operator — it basically shared private air travel. On top of being able to bring your larger-sized pet into the cabin with you, that also means you get a host of other perks that come with private flights, such as:

• Private terminals and separate security
• Business class legroom with roomy seats
• Intimate 30-seat jets
• Plane-side baggage retrieval immediately after unloading passengers

Sounds amazing, right?

The downside is that tickets are pricier than your normal flight — expect to pay 2-3x what you’d pay with a standard airline. Plus, JSX has a very limited number of flight paths, primarily in the southwest region of the United States.

Still, if you’re going where JSX flies, it can’t get much better for you and your pooch.

• Small dogs must be kenneled at all times, while medium and large-sized dogs must be leashed and stowed in the footwell of the seat beside you 
• Pets and carriers aren’t allowed on airline seats
• Only well-mannered dogs are permitted to fly
• Dogs in Cargo : No.
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No listed breed restrictions.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, with limitations. ESAs must have the required documentation and demonstrate safe and appropriate behavior in a flight setting (no lunging, barking, growling, jumping, pottying accidents, etc.) ESAs must be reported to the airline in advance to ensure proper seating arrangements and documentation.
• Fee : Free for small dogs riding in a carrier stowed beneath a seat; large dogs incur a fee equal to the advertised rate of your adjoining seat. 
• Weight Limits : 65 pounds or less
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 13″ wide x 11″ tall x 17″ long
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet per passenger
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 5 pets maximum per flight.
• Age Limits : None listed.
• JSX has a limited service map across the U.S.
• JSX Pet Acceptance Liability Form must be completed before boarding.
• Only 1 pet per carrier is permitted.

3. United Airlines

A broad coverage map and simple rules for flying with your pet make this airline great for those with canine passengers. 

About : United Airlines’ pet policy makes things easy on pet parents by spelling everything out without much fluff. The coverage area is impressive, too, with tons of domestic and international destinations to choose from.

• Seating options for passengers with pets can vary by aircraft
• Pets must stay in a carrier stowed beneath a seat at all times
• Passengers with pets cannot sit in an emergency exit row, a United Premium Plus seat, or in the front row of any cabin
• Dogs in Cargo : United has discontinued other pet cargo shipments via PetSafe except for U.S. military members on current Permanent Change of Station orders and State Department Foreign Service Personnel on current reassignment. In these cases, you can fly with your pets as checked baggage, but only on flights between Guam and Honolulu and under specific conditions. 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds are not permitted to fly via United.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, but they must travel in accordance with United’s pet guidelines and pay the required fees.
• Fee : $125 carry-on fee, with a $125 charge for each stopover of 4 hours in the U.S. or 24 hours internationally.
• Weight Limits : No weight limits for carry-on pets. Your dog just has to fit comfortably in his carrier.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Hard-sided kennels are permitted and must be 17.5” long x 12” tall x 7.5” wide or smaller, while soft-sided kennels are allowed to be 18” long x 11” wide x 11” tall or smaller. Your dog must fit comfortably inside the kennel with enough space to stand and turn around without crouching. If flying on a Boeing 737 MAX 9, your pet carrier cannot be taller than 10 inches and if traveling in Economy with a pet on this type of plane, you must sit in a window seat.
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Crates cannot exceed 34 inches in height when traviling in the cargo hold. Your dog must be able to stand, lie down, and turn around naturally.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : Varies by aircraft. Some allow a max of 2 pets in premium cabins and 4 pets in economy seating, while others allow up to 6 pets in economy seating.
• Age Limits : Older than 8 weeks to travel domestically and at least 16 weeks or older to travel internationally
• United only allows one pet per carrier.
• A health certificate for your pet dated within 30 days of your trip is required when traveling domestically. This should include your name, phone number, and address, along with your pet’s breed, sex, age, and markings. The certificate should also include your dog’s vaccination information, including the name of the vaccines, the dates administered, and the expiration dates. 

Loads of East Coast destinations make this a top pet-positive airline.

About : Delta makes flying up and down the eastern seaboard with your pooch easy with heaps of destinations. Delta’s rules surrounding pet travel are convenient to navigate, too, making your flying Fido expeditions all the more tail-wagging.

• Pets must remain in a carrier at all times
• Carry-on pets cannot travel in any cabin with flat-bed seats
• Carry-on pets are not permitted for international travel for passengers in Business Class, Delta Premium Select, or Delta One due to insufficient space. This may also be limited for domestic travel, depending on the flight.
• Carry-on pets cannot be seated in bulkhead seats, emergency exit rows, and no-stowage seats
• All animals traveling via cargo must have a health certificate issued within 10 days of flight from a licensed veterinarian. 
• Delta does not accept animals as checked baggage during periods of extreme weather. This is defined as temperatures exceeding 80˚F below 20˚F.
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds and mixes cannot fly with Delta.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel as pets, follow applicable rules, and pay necessary fees.
• Fee : $95 carry-on fee each way domestically, $200 carry-on fee each way internationally, and $75 carry-on fee each way for Brazil. For military mutts traveling with their families, the fees are $200 for traveling to the U.S. or internationally and $150 for flying to Brazil.
• Weight Limits : No weight limits are listed.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Varies by flight. For most flights, Delta recommends a soft-sided carrier that is ​​18” x 11” x 11”. 
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Varies significantly by aircraft.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : Only 1 unless a mother dog is traveling with puppies less than 6 months old or if 2 puppies less than 6 months old can comfortably fit in a kennel.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : 2 in Business Class, 4 in the Main Cabin.
• Age Limits : Dogs must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic air travel.
• Sedation of household dogs is forbidden for travel with Delta.
• Delta asks passengers to have kennel dimensions available at booking.
• Pet parents must check-in at the Special Service Counter.

5. Southwest

An affordable dog-friendly flier with numerous destinations across the southern U.S. and beyond.

About : Flying around the southern United States with your dog is easy with Southwest. Southwest’s pet policy is pretty easy to digest too, allowing you to focus on the more enjoyable parts of your four-footed excursion.

• Pets that are aggressive, excessively whining or barking, or soiling the cabin or gate area may be denied boarding
• Pets must remain in carriers at all times
• Passengers with pets can’t sit in exit rows or seats without stowage
• Vaccinations are required, but Southwest doesn’t require proof of vaccination
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions given.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the pet policy rules.
• Fee : $95 per pet carrier, $35 for carriers flying with passengers between Hawaiian islands between September 6 and December 31.
• Weight Limits : None noted besides “small dogs only”
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Maximum of 18.5” long x 13.5” wide x 9.5” tall
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : 1 carrier per passenger which may contain up to 2 small dogs as long as they fit comfortably together
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : 6 pet carriers per flight
• Age limits : 8 weeks or older.
• Pets cannot fly to and from Hawaii and other destinations but can fly between the Hawaiian islands.
• Southwest doesn’t allow pets to fly internationally.
• Pet crates and strollers are accepted as checked luggage.

Escaping to the tropics with your sunny sniffer is easy with this airline.

About : JetBlue has destinations across the Caribbean from multiple points across the U.S, making it an excellent choice for those looking to soak up the sun with a pup. JetBlue’s pet policy is similar to most major airlines, though it does have its differences.

• Pets must remain in a carrier at all times in the airport and on the plane
• Carriers must remain stowed beneath a seat during takeoff, landing, and taxi
• Passengers with pets can’t sit in emergency exit rows, bulkhead seats, Mint seats or any seat without under-seat stowage
• Pets can’t fly to Trinidad and Tobago or London
• Pets aren’t allowed on interline or codeshare bookings
• Vaccination requirements vary by destination 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : None listed.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must fly under the airline’s pet policy rules.
• Fee : $125 each way for cabin travel.
• Weight limits : 20 pounds total for your dog and carrier combined
• Cabin crate size limits : 17″ length x 12.5″ width x 8.5″ height
• Maximum number of pets per passenger : 1 (A second pet can travel if an additional seat is purchased along with paying another pet travel fee.)
• Maximum pets per flight : 6
• Only one pet per carrier is permitted.
• Compliant pet carriers can be purchased at the ticket counter.

7. Alaska Airlines

Air travel with big barkers up to 150 pounds is possible with this cool carrier.

About : Jetting with a giant breed is possible with Alaska Airlines, with their 150-pound weight limit for pets and carriers combined leaving room for many breeds barred from other carriers. The airline is one of the most popular with pet owners, with Alaska Airlines pet policy allowing most sniffers to take to the skies.

• Cannot sit in emergency exit or bulkhead rows
• Must remain in a carrier at all times
• Carrier must remained stowed under a seat during taxi, takeoff, and landing
• Loud or odorous pets can be refused cabin travel and moved to cargo
• Doesn’t transfer pets traveling in cargo to other carriers
• Cargo travel discontinued between November 15 and January 10 for flights 2000-2999 and flights 3300-3499
• Extreme temperatures may lead to suspended cargo pet travel
• Aggressive pets may be refused entry
• Pets cannot travel via baggage on the Airbus fleet
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds may not travel via cargo but are permitted to travel in the cabin if they fit into the required carrier.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the airline’s pet policy guidelines.
• Fee : $100 each way for dogs traveling in cargo or cabin. $105 if departing from Canada.
• Weight Limits : Up to 150 pounds for crates and canines combined in cargo.
• Hard-sided  17″ x 11″ x 7.5″
• Soft-sided 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : 26″ X 24″ x 36″, Boeing 737, Horizon Air Q400 and E175, and SkyWest ERJ-175 aircraft may allow 30″ x 27″ x 40″
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : Maximum of 2 carriers per paid passenger, but you must purchase the seat adjacent to you. Up to 2 pets of the same species per carrier for cabin dwellers, only 1 per cargo carrier unless they’re similarly sized puppies less than 6 months old.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : First class can accommodate 3 carriers, while the main cabin can handle 5 carriers.
• Age Limits : Must be older than 8 weeks.
• Health certificate dated within 10 days required for checked pets.
• Aggressive pets may be denied entry.

8. Hawaiian Airlines

Best Pet-Friendly Airline for the Hawaiian Islands

About : Say aloha to the islands with your pup by flying Hawaiian Airlines, a carrier that jets between islands as well as to and from North America and other destinations. Their pet policy is spread around their FAQs, but tracking down answers isn’t too tricky, though the limitations require close attention.

• Not permitted in First Class between Hawaii and North America
• Not allowed between Hawaii and JFK, BOS, MCO, or AUS airports
• Not permitted internationally
• Not permitted between Hawaii and Pago Pago
• Passengers with pet carriers cannot sit in emergency exit rows, seats adjacent to emergency exit rows, or in the bulkhead
• Not permitted between Hawaii and JFK, BOS, MCO, or AUS airports
• Not permitted during yearly embargo period due to weather (April 15 to October 15)
• Not permitted internationally (May not apply between Hawaii and Japan for active duty personnel)
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds are discouraged but not banned.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the pet policy guidelines.
• $125 for cabin travel if traveling from North America
• $35 for cabin travel if flying from within the limits of Hawaii
• $60 if traveling in cargo between Hawaiian islands.
• $225 for cargo travel if traveling to and from North American continent
• Cabin: Carrier and pet combined cannot exceed 25 pounds.
• Cargo: Carrier and pet combined cannot exceed 70 pounds. If your pet is heavier, contact support for potential options.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Carriers must be soft-sided and cannot exceed 16” length x 11” width x 9.5” height.
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : 36″ length x 25″ width x 27″ height maximum
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet carrier per pet. 
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : None listed.
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older.
• Pet carriers may contain up to 2 pets if they’re less than 6 months old and of the same species.
• Travel between Hawaiian Islands does not require a health certificate, but those traveling to and from elsewhere need a health certificate dated within 14 days of flying.
• Hawaiian Airlines does not offer carriers if yours does not comply. Your pet will be refused flight.
• The state of Hawaii has strict rules surrounding rabies and vaccination status.

A 40-pound weight limit allows most small dogs to fly in the cabin with this carrier.

About : Spirit’s pet policy allows dogs up to 40 pounds to fly as long as they fit comfortably in the assigned carrier size, leaving wiggle room for pups who exceed the strict weight limits of other airlines. Pricing is reasonable, too, and there aren’t any breed-specific bans in place.

• Passengers with pets can’t sit in the first row or emergency exit seats
• Pets are only permitted on domestic flights, not international
• Traveling dogs cannot be odorous, disruptive, or in distress
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No breed-specific bans.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must follow Spirit’s pet policy.
• Fee : $110 each way
• Weight Limits : Carrier weight cannot exceed 40 pounds.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 18″ long x 14″ wide x 9″ tall
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 carrier pet passenger, which can contain up to 2 pets if housed comfortably.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 6
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older and fully weaned
• Pets must check-in at a service counter, not a self-serve kiosk.
• Health certificates aren’t required for boarding, but always check destination requirements to ensure compliance.
• Proof of vaccinations isn’t required by the airline, but may be needed depending on your destination.

10. Allegiant

A $50 pet fee makes Allegiant one of the cheapest options for flying with your pooch.

About : Low-cost airline Allegiant has a bare-bones pet travel policy compared to others, taking the squeeze off paperwork-wary pet parents and saving your treat money for fun things. That said, you still need to comply with destination document requirements.

• Sick, violent, distressed, or disruptive animals aren’t permitted to travel
• Pets can’t travel in exit rows, bulkheads, or one row before or after exit rows
• Animals must remain in the carrier at all times
• Carrier must remained stowed under the seat during takeoff and landing
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions listed.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Emotional support animals must follow the pet guidelines.
• Fee : $50 per carrier each way
• Weight Limits : Only small pets that can fit into the designated crate size are permitted.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 9” high x 16” wide x 19” deep
• 1 carrier per passenger
• No more than 2 pets per carrier (pets must get along and be able to fit comfortably)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : None listed.
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older
• Allegiant requires no health certificate for traveling pets, but they also assume no responsibility for your dog’s health or well-being in the cabin.
• All pet travelers must arrive one hour before their designated flight time to check for compliance.

A lack of a health certificate requirement might save you time, but it also leaves your pet vulnerable to traveling around animals that may not be in tip-top shape.

11. Frontier

At $99 per pet, this airline’s pet fees let you save your doggy dough.

About : Budgeting for your fur-flying trip is made easier with Frontier’s low-cost pet fees. They may not be the most affordable option, but they’re certainly worth considering if you’re trying to keep your travel costs low. Frontier’s pet flight policy is straightforward too, saving time on research.

• Dogs that bark or whine excessively, smell offensive, or act aggressively may be turned away
• Passengers traveling with a pet cannot sit in row one or exit rows 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must fly under Frontier’s pet guidelines.
• Fee : $99 per pet, per flight.
• Weight Limits : None listed.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 18″ length x 14″ width x 8″ height
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet per passenger.
• While Frontier doesn’t require health certificates, your destination may, even domestically, so always triple-check to be sure you’re in compliance.
• Coverage includes all U.S. domestic flights and international flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.
• Pre-assigned seating eliminates the stress of landing the right seat.

12. Air Canada

A Canadian carrier offering service to pet parents to a variety of destinations across Canada.

About : Visit Canada with your canine on Air Canada, an airline whose rules for pet flight are long yet thorough. Rules vary by season for safety’s sake, so keep a close eye on dates and check with customer service to avoid any surprises.

• Pets cannot travel in Business class on Boeing 737 Max 8 aircrafts
• Pets cannot travel in Premium Economy
• Only 1 pet is permitted per carrier
• Cannot be seated in a bulkhead or exit row
• 2 pets may travel in the same carrier in cargo, but they can’t weigh more than 31 pounds each. (You’ll still have to pay 2  fees)
• Brachycephalic breeds are not permitted to travel in the cargo hold.
• “Strong dog” breeds and crossbreeds must be transported via special carriers in cargo. This list includes the Caucasian shepherd, kangal, pit bull-type breeds, all mastiffs, Rottweilers, and wolf hybrids. This restriction doesn’t apply to puppies between 3 and 6 months old.
• Pit bulls are banned in Ontario and cannot fly to the province.
• Are ESAs allowed?: ESAs must follow pet rules.
• Fee: Varies by minimum and maximum tax that’s based on your itinerary which ranges between $50 and $59 for a one-way fee for flights within Canada, and $100 to $118 for a one-way fee for international flights. 
• Cabin weight limit is 22 pounds for your dog and carrier
• 100 pounds for the carrier and pet if traveling in cargo (If heavier, contact support to discuss possible options)
• 8” H x 16” W x 17” L for Boeing 787-9 
• 8” H x 16” W x 14.5” L for Boeing 787-8 
• 8.25” H x 15” W x 17” L for Boeing 777-300ER and Boeing-200LR 
• 7.75” H x 15.75” W x 17” L and soft-sided for Airbus A321, Airbus 220, Airbus A320, Airbus a319, and Boeing 737 Max 8
• Cargo Crate Size Limits: 115” in linear dimensions max (If larger, contact support to discuss options)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger: 1 per passenger
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight: Between 2 and 4, depending on flight
• Age Limits: 12 weeks or older and fully weaned
• Travelers with pets must arrive at least 30 minutes before their recommended check-in time and speak with an agent, as pets cannot be checked-in via kiosk.
• Pets are allowed in Maple Leaf Lounges but must remain in a carrier.
• Aggressive dogs may be refused for travel.
• Winter travel restrictions bar dogs less than 10 pounds from traveling in cargo and can’t travel in certain aircraft. No pets are accepted for any travel between December 18 and January 4.
• Pet travel to warm climates is banned during certain periods, depending on destination.

13. Lufthansa

A German-based, fur-friendly flier with loads of international routes.

About : Traveling abroad with your best fur friend is possible with Lufthansa, a German airline that flies to cities around the world. Lufthansa’s pet travel policy is comprehensive, but certain aspects vary by flight, so always double-check requirements before booking.

• Must be kenneled and stowed under the airline seat at all times
• Pet cannot be disruptive or aggressive
• Must book no later than 72 hours before departure
• Dogs in Cargo: New cargo bookings have been discontinued.
• Brachycephalic dog breeds cannot travel in cargo
• Dogs classified as “fighting breeds” can only travel via the cargo in special crates. These breeds include the American bulldog, dogo Argentino, Kangal, Caucasian shepherd, and Rottweiler. The only exception for cabin travel is for dogs aged three to six months.
• Are ESAs allowed?: ESAs must follow Lufthansa’s pet policy.
• Fee: Varies by flight 
• Weight Limits: Pup and carrier must weigh less than 8 kg (17.6 pounds) combined
• Cabin Crate Size Limits: Soft-sided carriers must measure 22” x 16” x 9” or less
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger: 2 pets per passenger (if traveling via cabin, must be in same carrier)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight: None listed, but bookings are issued on a first come, first serve basis.
• Age Limits: 12 weeks or older
• Health certificate issued within 10 days of flying required.
• Pets are allowed in Lufthansa lounges but must be contained in a carrier.
• Pet parents must complete 2 copies of Lufthansa’s transporting an animal in the passenger cabin form.
• All pet carriers must be lined in an absorbent material (puppy pad).
• 2 pets must travel in separate carriers unless they’re puppies or adults of comparable size or a mother and her pup aged 6 months or younger.

14. Avolar Pets

About : Avolar Pets is a public charter operator that takes you and your pooch to the skies in style by utilizing a network of private jets for shared travels with other pet parents wanting more than standard service. You won’t need to navigate throngs of travelers, as its flights depart from private terminals to make boarding as stress-free as possible. Best of all, your barker isn’t relegated to a carrier or cargo — leashed pups ride right in the cabin!

• Dogs in Cabin : Yes, leashed dogs are welcome
• Dogs in Cargo : No
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Dependent on destination (Example: The UK has a ban on American pit bull terriers)
• Fee : Varies by flight
• Weight Limits : None
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : N/A
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 2 pets per passenger, with restrictions
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 20
• Age Limits : Minimum canine age requirement varies by destination
• Each passenger is permitted one pet over 50 pounds or 1 leashed dog under 50 pounds and 1 pet under 50 pounds in a travel carrier
• Arrive 1 hour prior to departure
• Pup passengers lie on the floor next to their owners during the flight
• Flights are confirmed once a 75% passenger and pet threshold is met for the route
• If threshold is not met at least 21 days before departure, your flight may be canceled and issued a full refund
• No refunds are issued unless your flight is canceled by the airline
• Limited flight routes are available, but more may be added in the future
• Service reviews pet travel documents four to six days before departure to ensure clearance
• Overly aggressive dogs are not permitted

General Tips for Flying with Your Pet

Flying to a destination with your furry adventure buddy is loads of fun, but to keep it that way, you should follow a few rules of the skies, including: 

• Book early. Most airlines limit the amount of pets allowed per flight. To snag one of these coveted spots for your sniffer, book your trip as soon as possible.
• Double-check all of the details with the airline. When in doubt, ask. Airline rules are ever-changing, especially with continued complications in a post-pandemic world. It’s better to dot all of your Is and cross your Ts than to be surprised at check-in.
• Select an airline-ap p roved crate when flying cargo . Carriers come in all shapes and sizes, many of which aren’t airline compliant with their gadgets and gizmos. Check size requirements with your airline and other concerns, such as acceptable materials or rules about crate locks. Also, note that these can vary by dog breed.
• Talk to your vet. Square away vaccination updates and health checks before planning any trips with your pup. It’s important to determine if your dog is fit to fly and to have your ducks in a row paperwork-wise for vaccinations.
• Pack medications. Sometimes travel brain gets the best of us and we forget the most important everyday items like underwear or your dog’s medications. If possible, these should be among the first supplies you pack. They should be in their original containers with your vet’s information too to avoid any transparency problems.
• Consider your pet’s needs over yours. Not every dog likes to fly or is well-suited for flight. Health issues and personality quirks can put unnecessary stress on your canine. While you may be looking forward to taking in the sights and sounds of an exotic locale, your dog may be too anxious to enjoy such a trip. Sometimes staying home with a trusted petsitter is best.
• Can’t fly? Consider ground transportation . If your dog isn’t a good fit for flying, there are plenty of great pet ground transportation services that can drive your dog to your final destination. With shared van and private van options, you can usually find a service that won’t break your budget (although overall, pet ground transport is definitely pricier than flying, as it takes longer and requires more manual labor on the driver’s part).

Check out our top tip s for flying with your dog . We explain everything you need to know to make your upcoming trip a blast!

Pet-Friendly Airlines: FAQ

Flying with your dog can be a head scratcher sometimes. Check out these commonly asked questions to brush up on your knowledge about traveling by air with your dog.

Is it safe to travel with your pet?

In many cases, yes.

Most healthy dogs fly in an airplane’s cabin without issue, especially the most travel-friendly breeds .

Risks increase if your dog is brachycephalic (short-faced,) medically frail, or traveling in the cargo area. Most airlines do not even allow any kind of plane travel for brachycephalic breeds or breeds that are prone to issues like overheating.

Traveling by air with young puppies or seniors is also not advised and often not allowed by major airlines.

If you have any concerns about your dog’s safety during travel, contact your vet to discuss if flying is the best option or if a staycation is a better pupper plan.

What is the safest airline for pets?

According to a 2018 report by the Department of Transportation detailing incidents involving the loss, injury, or death of animals during air transportation, airlines reporting zero incidents include Horizon Air, Republic Airways, Endeavor Air, Mesa Airlines, ExpressJet Airlines, GoJet Airlines, Compass Airline, CommutAir, Envoy Air, and Sun Country Airlines.

However, it’s worth noting that these airlines transported far fewer animals than major carriers, with the majority flying less than 10,000 animals annually.

Alaska Airlines reported the least incidents among major airlines, with 1 injury per 143,634 pets flown. SkyWest Airlines and American Airlines also experienced fewer incidents. The worst-performing major airline was Hawaiian Airlines, with 3 deaths in the 9,505 pets flown.

Despite the media hyper-focusing on pet deaths while flying, these occasions are very rare. Pet travel by plan is generally quite safe.

What documents do I need for my pet to fly?

The documents needed vary by airline and destination. Some ask for nothing, while most require a health certificate.

Completed by a vet, this certificate states that your dog is healthy enough to fly and free of infectious diseases. Shot records may also be required, depending on the airline and destination. International flights generally have the strictest document requirements.

What are some of the new airline pet restrictions after the pandemic?

The pandemic greatly affected pet travel with employee shortages and an uptick in flight cancellations. In response, airlines have limited cargo shipment of animals, some have banned emotional support animals, and others increased fees for pets traveling in the cabin.

The CDC has also tightened the rules surrounding dogs coming to the United States , with new age, vaccination, microchipping, and location restrictions. This is in response to several rabies-infected dogs arriving in the U.S. during the pandemic.

Which airlines allow dogs on the plane?

Several airlines allow dogs to fly, including American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, and JetBlue. However, airline canine travel rules vary, so always call ahead to ensure your pooch can take to the skies.

Does federal law allow dogs on airplanes?

Federal law leaves it up to airlines if pets are permitted to travel via cabin with passengers or as cargo. These restrictions do not apply to service animals. Federal law states that service animals are allowed in the cabin of any airplane and aren’t subject to carrier or health certificate requirements. There’s also no limit on the number of service animals on a flight.

Can my dog sit on my lap during a flight?

Probably not. Most airlines require dogs to stay kenneled in an airline-approved pet carrier and under the seat in front of you for the flight duration. This keeps you, your pet, and other passengers safe in case of turbulence and other airtime events.

Can pets fly alone?

Maybe. Some airlines allow pets to fly alone while others do not. There are many pet transport services that can aid in canine travel if you can’t travel with them.

What is the best airline for traveling with a pet?

Our top pick for the best airline to travel with a pet is JSX. Since the flights are semi-private and you can take any sized dog onto the plane without a crate, it’s the ideal flying experience for you and your pooch. The only downside is that there aren’t many flight destinations, and the tickets can be pricey.

Have you flown with your dog? Did you fly with any of the airlines on our list or another? Any tips for other travelers with pups? Share your experiences with us. We’d love to hear!

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Pet Travel on Delta

Embark on a journey with your favorite furry companion. Depending on their size, some pets can travel as your carry-on. Note:  Failure to comply with all pet policies and keep your pet in the kennel at all times while in the airport and onboard the aircraft may result in losing the ability to travel with your pet on future flights. Need to travel with your service animal? Explore our guidelines and requirements for trained service animals .

In-page Links

• Carry-On Pets , Go to footer note
• Booking Your Pet , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Kennel Requirements , Go to footer note
• Checking In With Your Pet , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Pet Fees , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Pet Exceptions , Go to footer note

Military Pet Travel

International pet travel, carry-on pets.

Small dogs, cats and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee that is collected at check-in. The pet must be able to fit in a soft-sided ventilated pet kennel that will go underneath the seat directly in front of you.

Please review the following requirements to ensure a safe and healthy flight with a small pet traveling as a carry-on:

• Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel.
• Your pet must be 16 weeks old if traveling to the U.S. from another country and at least 15 weeks old when traveling to the European Union.
• 1 female cat or dog may travel with her un-weaned litter if the litter is between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. There is no limit on the number of animals in the litter as long as they can fit safely in the kennel.
• 2 pets of the same breed and size between the ages of 8 weeks and 6 months may be allowed to travel in 1 kennel, as long as they are small enough to fit into a single kennel and are compatible. If the pets are allowed to travel in 1 kennel, they will be charged as 1 pet.

Pets in kennels will count as your 1 carry-on item. In addition to the kennel, you are permitted to bring 1 personal item on board the aircraft.

Seating With Your Pet

Customers with carry-on pets may not select seats in the following areas:

• Bulkhead seats
• An emergency exit row
• Seats designated as “no stowage”
• Flat-bed or Delta One seats
• Rows 46-51 on the A330-200 aircraft
• Rows 54-59 on the A330 -300 aircraft
• Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft

Booking Your Pet

Carry-on kennel requirements.

Be sure to check the aircraft dimensions of your flight to ensure your pet’s kennel will fit underneath the seat directly in front of you.

Your pet and kennel must also adhere to the following requirements:

• Your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel with the ability to move around without touching or sticking out from the sides.
• The kennel must fit underneath the seat directly in front of you.
• The soft-sided kennel must be leak-proof and have ventilation openings on 3 sides for domestic travel and 4 sides for international travel.
• The maximum carry-on kennel dimensions are determined by the aircraft dimensions of your flight, as the under-seat space varies by aircraft. Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.
• Your pet must remain inside the kennel with the door secured while in a Delta boarding area, during boarding and deplaning, while in a Delta Sky Club® and while on board the aircraft.

Checking In With Your Pet

When you arrive at the airport, you will need to visit the Special Service Counter to check-in with your pet. At check-in, a Delta agent will ensure your pet and kennel meet the necessary requirements for your trip and collect the required pet fee. Remember to allow extra time at check-in for us to ensure your pet is ready for take-off.

Once you are checked in and have your cabin pet tag, you are ready to go through the security checkpoint where you are required to remove your pet from their kennel.

After the security checkpoint, your pet must remain in their kennel while at the airport, unless they are in a designated relief area.

Delta Sky Club® Pets

Carry-on pet fees.

CAD amount will be charged to exit Canada, while EUR amount will be charged to exit Europe. These fees are established by the contract of carriage in effect at the time of ticket issuance.

Carry-On Pet Exceptions

For any travel to or from the following destinations — with the exception of service animals — pets must travel as cargo and are not permitted in the cabin:

• Pet travel is not allowed for pets originating in Brazil/Colombia
• Pet travel is not allowed on flights to Hawaii
• Jamaica  
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

Household birds are only permitted on domestic U.S. flights excluding flights to Hawaii, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Guam. Review based on your destination or connecting flights.

The CDC has an ongoing, temporary suspension that prohibits the entry of dogs, including trained service animals, into the United States from countries that are at high-risk for rabies. During the suspension, options for bringing dogs that have been in a high-risk country for rabies within the past 6 months will depend on where the dogs’ rabies vaccinations were administered, and the number of dogs being imported. Dogs from high-risk countries must appear healthy, be microchipped and at least 6 months of age. For dogs with a travel history in high-risk countries, please review the CDC’s guidance on importation .

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21 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In Cabin [2023 Pet Policies]

Traveling with our furry companions has become increasingly popular, and many airlines have recognized the importance of accommodating passengers’ beloved dogs. Instead of leaving them behind or entrusting them to a pet sitter, more and more pet owners are seeking airlines that allow flying with dogs in the cabin. Most airlines will only allow flying with small dogs in cabin, however there are some semi-private airlines that will allow larger dogs on board. 

This article will explore several airlines that go the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for both humans and their four-legged friends. From pet policies to cabin requirements, let’s dive into the top airlines that warmly welcome dogs on board.

The following airlines allow flying with dogs in-cabin:

• Aegean Airlines
• American Airlines
• TAP Air Portugal
• Turkish Airlines
• United Airlines
• Aero (semi-private)
• BLADE (semi-private)
• JSX (semi-private)
• Surf Air (semi-private)
• Tradewind Aviation (semi-private)

Related post: Flying Dogs in Cargo: Will my dog be safe? Airlines that Allow Flying with a Large Dog in Cabin [Pet Policies]

Which airlines allow flying with dogs in cabin?

Aegean airlines pet policy..

• Maximum weight: 8 kg (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
• Cost: 30 EUR domestic and 60 EUR international (prices differ depending on time of year)
• International: Yes

Additional information:

• In case you are travelling with an infant, you are not allowed to fly with a dog in cabin as well.
• Each passenger is allowed to travel with only one (1) dog in cabin, carried within a special box/container.
• Dogs must have a valid anti-rabies vaccination and microchip.

Dog Age / Breed Restrictions:

• Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old.
• American Bully ▪ Cavalier king Charles Spaniel ▪ Pinscher ▪ Boston Terrier ▪ Affenpinscher ▪ Boxer (All breeds) ▪ Brussels Griffon ▪ Bulldog (All breeds) ▪ Cane Corso ▪ Chow Chow ▪ Dogue De Bordeaux ▪ English Toy Spaniel (King Charles Spaniel) ▪ Japanese Spaniel (Chin) ▪ Lhasa Apso ▪ Mastiff (All breeds) ▪ Pekingese ▪ Pit Bull ▪ Presa Canario ▪ Pug (All breeds) ▪ Staffordshire Bull Terrier ▪ Shar Pei ▪ Shih Tzu ▪ Tibetan Spaniel

Carrier Restrictions:

• Dogs must remain in their travel carriers at all times, with the door securely closed. 
• At no point are dogs allowed to sit on a seat itself. 
• If you do not have your own travel carrier, Aegean Airlines will give you a disposable one, available in domestic airports.
• The travel container must be placed under the seat in front of the passenger.
• The carrier must be leak-proof and ventilated.
• The carrier must be free of tears, cracks or breaks.

Aircraft Restrictions:

• You may not occupy an exit or bulkhead row.
• You may not sit in the first row or the emergency exit row and the adjacent ones.
• Dogs are not permitted in the cabin on flights to the UK. 

Visit Aegean’s website  for more information.

Air Canada Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight:  22 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size : 27 x 40 x 55 cm (soft-sided crate) & 23 x 40 x 55 cm (hard-sided crate)
• Cost: $50-59 CAD within Canada & USA and $100-118 CAD international
• International allowed: Yes
• Your dog in its carrier will count as one standard item toward your carry-on baggage allowance.
• Only one dog or small dog per passenger is permitted. 
• Are an unaccompanied minor
• Are seated in an exit or bulkhead row
• Require use of a medical device that will be stowed under the seat
• Are travelling in Premium Economy

Dog Age Restrictions:

• Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old and must be fully weaned.
• Dogs flying in cabin must remain in their travel carriers at all times.
• Your dog’s travel carrier must fit under the seat directly in front of you.
• The carrier must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.
• Up to 2 dogs may travel in the same carrier, provided no body parts protrude from the carrier and the animals are not in distress.
• On flights operated by their Aribus fleet, pets may not travel in the First Class cabin. 
• On Boeing 789  and 788 aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H20 x W40 x L43 cm
• On Boeing 777-300ER  and  777-200LR aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H21 x W38 x L43 cm

For more info, visit  Air Canada’s website .

Related post: Requirements for Taking Pets to Canada [Pet Passport Guide]

Air Europa Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8kg (10kg including carrier) or 6kg on flights operated by ATR
• Maximum carrier size: 55 x 35 x 25 cm
• Cost: 27-55 USD within Europe and 165 USD long-haul
• Prices subjects to possible surcharges for taxes in certain countries.
• You must arrive at the airport early enough to complete the necessary paperwork.
• Dogs must be at least 3 months old to travel on medium and long haul flights.
• The carrier must be leak-proof and well ventilated.
• Up to 3 dogs may travel in the same carrier, provided they do not exceed the permitted dimension/weight restrictions.
• Passengers are not permitted to bring pets in the Business cabin.
• Pets in the cabin may not fly in an emergency or XL seat.

Visit  Air Europa’s website  for more information.

Alaska Air Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 9kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size:  43 x 28 x 24 cm (soft) / 43 x 28 x 19 cm (hard)
• Cost: 100 USD each way
• Passengers must be at least 18 years old to travel with a dog in the cabin.
• Your dog will count as your carry on item, so you aren’t permitted to carry any other item.
• A customer may travel with a maximum of 2 dog carriers in the main cabin, only when the adjacent seat is purchased by the same customer.
• Dogs with offensive odours or those that create a noise disturbance must travel in the climate-controlled baggage compartment.
• Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and must be fully weaned.
• You may not occupy an emergency exit row, or any seat with an airbag safety belt.

Visit  Alaska Air’s website  for more information.

American Airlines Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight : 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size : depends on flight (call the airline for specific restrictions)
• Cost: 125 USD each way
• International: Yes, but no in-cabin dogs on transatlantic flights or flights longer than 12 hours
• You won’t be permitted to bring on any additional items, as your dog and it’s carrier count as your one carry-on bag. 
• American Airlines will only accept 7 kennels on American flights, and 5 kennels on American Eagle flights.

For more info on additional restrictions, visit  AA’s website .

Air France Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size : 46 x 28 x 24 cm (soft carriers recommended)
• Cost: 40 EUR domestic and 30-125 EUR international
• International?: Yes, but note that this airline does not accept dogs in the business cabin on intercontinental flights. The dog must travel in the hold.
• Each passenger may travel with only 1 animal.
• Only 1 animal is permitted per container.
• The container must fit under the seat in front of you.
• The kennel must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.
• Generally your dog must be at least 10 weeks old and have all required vaccines.
• On flights within metropolitan France and between metropolitan France and Guadeloupe, Martinique and Reunion Island, the minimum age is 8 weeks.
• On flights between metropolitan France and French Guiana, your dog must be at least 15 weeks old. 

Destination Restrictions:

• Passengers are not permitted to travel with dogs on intercontinental flights, if they are flying in the Business cabin.

For more info, visit  Air France’s website .

Delta Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: No limit, but dog must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
• Maximum carrier size: depends on flight (check the under-seat dimensions on your aircraft here )
• Cost: 125 USD within North America, 200 USD international and 75 USD to Brazil
• International:  Yes
• The kennel must fit under the seat directly in front of you.
• Your dog must remain inside the kennel while in a Delta boarding area, a Delta airport lounge and while onboard the aircraft.
• One adult is permitted per kennel, with the exception of a female dog traveling with her unweaned litter (as long as the litter is between 10 weeks and 6 months of age).
• Two puppies between the age of 10 weeks and 6 months, of the same breed are permitted in the same carrier.
• Dogs must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic travel.
• Dogs must be at least 16 weeks old for travel to/from the U.S.
• Dogs must be at least 15 weeks old for travel to/from the EU.
• Bulkhead, emergency exit row
• Seats designated as “no stowage”
• Flat-bed seats
• Rows 30-35 on the A330-200 aircraft
• Rows 30-43 on the A330 -300 aircraft
• Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft
• Jamaica  
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

For more info on additional restrictions, visit Delta’s website .

French Bee Pet Policy.

• Maximum carrier size: 43x35x20cm
• Cost: 50€ each way
• Only one dog is allowed per customer, with a few exceptions.

Dog Breed Restrictions:

• Breeds include: pugs, bulldogs, boxers, Pekinese and shih tsus
• For more information on category 1 and 2 dogs check the French Bee website here . 
• Your dog must remain underneath the seat in front of you during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
• Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be well ventilated.
• Only soft sided carriers are accepted.
• Only one pet per carrier is permitted.
• Bulkhead seat
• Emergency exit row
• Any seat that is restricted for under-seat storage
• Maxi Leg Seat
• The airlines recommends that you sit in a window or an aisle seat.
• Only 4 pets are permitted per flight.

For more info, head to French Bee’s website .

JetBlue Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 17″L x 12.5″W x 8.5″H
• You may hold your dog in your lap during the flight.
• You may purchase a ticket for the seat next to you, on which you can place your dog’s carrier.
• Both soft sided and hard sided carriers are accepted.
• Trinidad & Tobago
• Cayman Islands

For more info, head to JetBlue’s website .

Lufthansa Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17.6 pounds (including carrier)
• Cost: 50 EUR domestic, 60 EUR international within Europe and 80-110 EUR international outside Europe
• Each passenger is allowed to take a maximum of two animals with them.
• You must complete this form before boarding your flight.
• Dogs must be trained to be obedient to your commands and must behave appropriately in public. If your pet interrupts the flight, staff or other passengers, they may be sent to the cargo hold at extra cost. 
• Dogs flying in cabin must remain underneath the seat in front of you.
• Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be lined with an absorbant material.
• Carriers must be bite proof and be well ventilated.
• You have two puppies of similar size and age, who are at least 12 weeks old. 
• You have a mother dog who has a puppy who is dependent on her (0-6 weeks old).
• 8kg restriction still applies.
• All dogs must be at least 12 weeks old, or 16 weeks old for journeys to/from the USA.

Visit  Lufthansa’s website  for more information.

Southwest Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight:  No limit, but must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
• Maximum carrier size: 43 x 34 x 21 cm
• Cost: 95 USD each way
• International:  No (with the exception of trained assistance and emotional support animals, though no animals allowed to/from Jamaica)
• The dog carrier will count either as your carryon bag or personal item.
• Passengers are permitted to bring 1 pet carrier only. Each pet carrier can contain no more than 2 of the same species of small dog.
• Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are permitted. 
• Your dog must remain in the carrier, underneath the seat in front of you.
• Seats with no under-seat stowage in front of them

For more info, visit  Southwest’s website .

TAP Air Portugal Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (including pets and carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 40 x 33 x 17cm 
• Cost: cost varies – check here
• International: yes 
• Passengers traveling with pets in the cabin may select seats that are not located in rows with emergency exit doors or infant stroller apparatus.
• Dogs are not permitted to be carried in Executive Class on long haul flights. 
• More than one dog is permitted per carrier, as long as the weight doesn’t exceed 8kg.
• Only soft-sided carriers are permitted. 
• You are not able to fly into the UK. 

Dog Restrictions:

Pregnant dogs, and puppies under 10 weeks old are not permitted on Tap Air flights.

Visit TAP Air’s website  for more info.

TUI Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (excluding carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (soft-sided crates only)
• Cost: 50 EUROS
• Your dogs head must not protrude from the transport container and the animal must not leave the container during the flight.
• All dogs must be fitted with a microchip.
• Dogs must be transported in a hygienic watertight bag or basket.
• The carrier must be big enough so the animal can still stand up.
• Pregnant dogs are not permitted to fly.
• Each passenger traveling with a pet must sit by the window.

Visit TUI’s website  for more information.

Turkish Airlines Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8kg, including pets and carrier.
• Maximum carrier size: 23 x 30 cm x 40 cm
• Cost: check here
• International: depends on flight 
• Dogs are not permitted to travel with unaccompanied minors.
• Customers can purchase an additional ticket for their trip in order to carry on an additional dog. The dog must remain on the floor underneath the additional seat. 
• Two small dogs are permitted per carrier, as long as the weight doesn’t exceed 8kg.

Pregnant animals and puppies or kittens under 10 weeks old are not permitted on Turkish Airlines flights.

Breed Restrictions:

• Turkish Airlines do not permit transport the dangerous dog breeds such as American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Pitbull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro.

Visit Turkish Airlines’ website  for more info.

United Airlines Pet Policy.

• Maximum carrier size: 46 x 28 x 28 cm (soft-sided) / 44 x 30 x 19 cm (hard-sided)
• Cost: 125 USD (+ 125 USD service charge for each stopover of more than four hours within the U.S. or more than 24 hours outside the U.S)
• International: depends on flight (contact the United customer-contact center for info on specific flights)
• Only one dog is permitted per carrier.
• Dogs flying in cabin must remain in the carrier, underneath the seat in front of you.
• Dogs must be at least 4 months / 16 weeks old.
• Pit Bull breed dogs aren’t allowed in cabin.
• Bulkhead seats
• Emergency exit seats
• United Premium Plus seat (the footrest limits storage space)
• Boeing 757-200
• Federated States of Micronesia
• Marshall Islands
• Philippines
• Trinidad and Tobago

Visit  United’s website  for more info.

Vueling Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 10 kg (including carrier) or 8kg on flights operated by Iberia
• Maximum carrier size: 45 x 39 x 21 cm (soft-sided crates only)
• Cost: 40 EUR domestic and 50 EUR international
• Each passenger can only travel with 1 dog.
• Only 3 pets are permitted per flight, or 2 on flights operated by Iberia.
• You must not take your dog out of the pet carrier until you have disembarked.
• Dogs must be at least 3 months old.

Visit Vueling’s website  for more information.

Which airlines allow flying with large dogs in cabin?

As you may have now realised, many commercial airlines will only allow flying with small dogs in cabin. However, there are some semi-private airlines that will allow flying with large dogs in cabin. These will of course be a lot more expensive than a public airline. 

The following airlines allow flying with large dogs in cabin:

• Aero : medium and large dogs up to 65Ibs are permitted on their flights. You will need to purchase an additional seat at full price.
• BLADE : dogs over 25Ibs are allowed to fly in cabin as long as the owner must purchase an additional seat.
• JSX : You can purchase an extra seat for a large dog.
• Surf Air : you can fly with a dog over 20Ibs in cabin as long as you notify Surf and purchase a separate single-use flight pass. Your dog can sit on the seat as long as he or she is harnessed and you put a request in at the time of booking.
• Tradewind Aviation : large-breed dogs are welcome to fly in the spacious cabins of Tradewind Aviation’s Citation CJ3s and Pilatus PC-12s. There’s a limit of one party with pets per flight, and an additional seat must be purchased for dogs over 100Ibs.

For more information check  Airlines that Allow Flying with a Large Dog in Cabin [Pet Policies] .

How to prepare for flying with a dog in cabin.

1. select an appropriate, cabin-approved travel carrier..

As mentioned above, different airlines and aircrafts have different size restrictions for carriers. Be sure to check the restrictions for your specific airline, and aircraft.

For example, Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.

We would recommend using a soft sided carrier as they usually give your dog more space. 

2. Get your dog used to it’s travel carrier.

When flying with a dog in cabin, they will need to stay in its travel carrier for the duration of the journey. So, it’s very important that you spend some time to get your dog used to its travel carrier.

When first introducing your dog to its carrier, take it slow. Lure your dog into their carrier with plenty of treats, and let him/her play and sleep in there as much as possible. You want to avoid forcing your dog into the carrier as this may stress him or her out and may cause a negative association to the carrier. 

3. Train your dog to stay calm.

Your dog will need to be calm and well behaved when flying in cabin. If they show disruptive behaviour, they risk being sent into the cargo area of the plane.

4. Exhaust your dog before the flight.

Try to exhaust your dog a little by increasing the level of activity before your trip. A sleepy dog will be less prone to getting stressed out on the flight, and will likely be better behaved on the flight. 

5. Limit access to food and water before the flight.

When flying with a dog in cabin, your dog won’t be able to go potty. So, it’s a good idea to limit your dog’s access to food before the flight. Additionally, some animals may experience motion sickness if they eat just before a flight. If you are flying in the morning, then feed them the night before. Air Canada suggest feeding your dog four to six hours prior to departure, as a full stomach may cause discomfort during travel. 

Line the bottom of your dog’s travel carrier with a pee pad, just incase they do have an accident.

6. Familiarise yourself with the airport that you are departing from and arriving to.

Most airports will have a dedicated area for pets and service animals to rest. It is actually a legal requirement that all U.S. airports have pet-relief areas available for working animals and pets to rest. Take some photos of the airport maps, so you don’t have to wander around on the day trying to find a resting place.

7. Bring along your dog’s favourite comforts.

To maximise comfort and minimise stress, pop your dog’s favourite blanket or toy in the travel carrier with them. If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, you could even pop one of your t-shirts in the carrier.

Which dog breeds cannot fly in cabin?

Unfortunately, some airlines have restrictions on the dog breeds they permit on their flights. So, even if you are the owner of a very small dog, they may not be able to fly in the cabin with you. 

The following brachycephalic and snub-nosed dog breeds are often banned from flying in both the cabin and cargo:

• Affenpinscher
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terriers
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldogs (all breeds)
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Presa Canario
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

This is because of their anatomical abnormalities, short-nosed breeds may be more vulnerable to changes in air quality and temperature in the cargo hold of a plane.

Only certain airlines have these breed restrictions, so while you may not be able to fly with one airline, you may be able to fly with another. However, it’s important that you are confident your dog is healthy enough to fly. 

Related post: 21 Dog Breeds That Can Fly in Cabin

Documents required for flying with dogs in-cabin.

The documents required when flying with a dog in cabin will vary depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying from and to. If you are flying domestically, some airlines do not require any documentation. Southwest, for example. However, other airlines require your pet’s health book. Aegean Air, for example. 

You will need more paperwork if you are traveling abroad, in which cases you will usually require the following:

• Microchip certificate
• Rabies vaccination certificate
• Animal health certificate
• Additional vaccination certificates
• Rabies titer test results
• Parasite treatment certificate

a) Microchip.

Many airlines require microchip documents when flying with a dog in cabin. Not only is it usually a requirement, it is in your best interest. If your dog was to go missing whilst abroad, then you are far more likely to be reunited with a microchip.

Your dog can get microchipped at your local vet or a charity, such as RSPCA .

b) Rabies vaccinations.

If you want your take dogs on flights, it is likely that he/she requires a valid rabies vaccination. Particularly if you are taking your dog on an international flight as this is a requirement for entering most countries. 

Most countries require dogs to have their rabies vaccination between 30 days and 12 months prior to importing.

Related post:  How Often Does a Dog Need a Rabies Shot?

c) Animal health certificate.

Most airlines will require an official animal health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian when flying with dogs in cabin.

In most cases, your health certificate will also need to be endorsed by the country’s authority responsible for the import and export of animals. For example, if you are traveling from the US, you will need your documents endorsed by the USDA. If you are traveling from Canada, you will need to have your documents endorsed by CFIA.

They are normally valid for 10 days. 

d) Additional vaccinations.

Depending on where you are flying to, your dog may also require additional vaccinations or treatments.

For example, Turkey requires that all dogs are vaccinated against parainfluenza, leptospirosis, parvovirus, bordetella, hepatitis and distemper before being allowed into the country.  

e) Rabies titer test.

Some countries require pets to have a rabies titer test before entering. This is usually the case when you are traveling from a country that is considered high risk for rabies.

If your dog requires a titer test the process is as follows:

• Your pet will have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
• Your vet will then send the blood sample to an approved blood testing laboratory.
• Your pet’s blood test results must show a rabies antibody level of at least 0.5 IU/ml.
• You must wait 3 months from the date the blood sample was taken before you travel.
• The vet will give you a copy of the test results.

f) Parasite treatment.

To enter many countries, dogs are required to be treated against internal and/or external parasites before entering. This includes treatment for tapeworm, fleas, ticks, nematodes and cestodes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have to pay extra to fly with my dog in cabin?

You will yes. The amount you pay however, will differ between airlines as they charge different amounts. The charge also depends on where you are flying to and from. International flights usually costing more.

Can I fly with my dog in cabin on international flights?

You may be able to, depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying to and from. Some airlines allow dogs in cabin on international flights, such as Aegean Air. Southwest, however, do not let dogs in cabin on international flights.

Can I fly with my puppy in cabin?

This depends on how old your puppy is, and which airline you are flying with. Different airlines have different restrictions on the age of dogs that can fly in cabin. Some require puppies to be at least 8 weeks old, where others require them to be 16 weeks old.

Can I fly with a large dog in the cabin?

Unfortunately, unless your dog is an official service dog, only small dogs are permitted. Most airlines require that dogs and travel carriers must have a combined weight of no more than 8kg.

Traveling with your dog is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories. Thankfully, several airlines have recognized the importance of allowing flying with dogs in the cabin and have established comprehensive pet policies to accommodate furry travelers. Whether you choose Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, or JetBlue Airways, you can rest assured that your dog will be treated with care and enjoy a safe and comfortable journey by your side.

• 21 Dog Breeds That Can Fly in Cabin 
• Flying Dogs in Cargo: Will my dog be safe?
• Flying with an Anxious Dog? [15 Top Tips!]
• Dog Sedatives for Flying: Should I use them?

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Do All Dogs Have Webbed Feet? [Breed Info & Paw Care]

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Table of Contents

Flying with a large dog vs. small dog

Flying with a dog in cabin vs. cargo, how much does it cost to fly with a dog, weight limit for dogs on planes, is it safe for dogs to fly, emotional support animals on planes, tips for traveling with a dog, where to find an airline pet policy, more resources on how to travel with a dog.

If you want to take your dog on a plane, you’ll need to do some planning to ensure you and Fido have a smooth flight. First, you’ll want to figure out if your dog is eligible to travel at all based on their size and breed. There is also usually a pet fee and you will most likely have to fill out extra paperwork, which can vary from airline to airline.

The best advice is to talk to your veterinarian and your airline about what you need to do. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with the airline’s pet policy and figure out if there are any restrictions in the destination you’re traveling to.

Flying with a large dog is a vastly different experience than flying with a small dog. When you travel with a small dog, you’re able to take your pet into the cabin with you and keep them in a pet carrier next to your feet.

A large dog, on the other hand, will need to travel in the cargo hold. On some planes, this area is temperature controlled, but on others, it is not. You will not be able to be with your dog for the duration of the flight.

Airlines also charge different prices for dogs traveling in cabin and cargo.

Generally, if your dog in its carrier can fit under the seat in front of you, it can go in the cabin. So that means a dog weighing up to about 20 pounds. Of course, that under-seat space can vary depending on the aircraft, and airlines typically restrict how many total pets are allowed per flight — which is why you should check with the airline. You can’t buy an extra seat for your dog unless you're flying JSX or JetBlue Airways .

Generally speaking, traveling with a dog as a "carry-on luggage" item usually incurs a lower fee than if it travels in the belly of the plane as cargo. And by the way, a pet in its carrier counts as your carry-on bag.

Having your dog with you might provide peace of mind — although you’re technically not allowed to take it out of the carrier during the flight.

» Learn more: What it costs to fly with your pet in the plane cabin

The other option — and the only option for bigger dogs — is flying as cargo in a pressurized, temperature-controlled compartment not too different from the passenger cabin. These dogs essentially fly as checked bags on the same flight as you or unaccompanied, as shipping cargo, sometimes called manifest cargo or air freight.

The Humane Society of the United States generally advises against flying your dog as cargo, but this is the only option for bigger dogs. Also not all airlines will transport dogs as cargo. Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways, for example, offer only in-cabin flights for small dogs and cats.

Whether you choose cabin or cargo, you must adhere to airline rules about your dog’s age and weight. For example, United Airlines requires puppies be at least 2 pounds or 10 weeks old.

Using a dedicated pet shipping company is another way to go. You can find one at International Pet and Animal Transportation Association , an industry organization.

Owning jet-setting pets isn't cheap. First, you’ll have to make a reservation for your dog.

American Airlines, Southwest and JetBlue charge $125 each way for an in-cabin pet, though fees are somewhat less on other airlines, like Frontier ($99) and Delta ($95). The fee is usually payable when you get to the airport, not when you book.

Potential related cost: Because your in-cabin pet counts as your carry-on, you might be paying to check your roll-aboard unless you get a free checked bag because it’s a perk of your frequent flyer elite status or your airline-branded credit card .

Pets that fly as cargo often cost more and there might be restrictions on the animal’s size, weight, age and destination. Some airlines do not disclose the price on their website and you will only see the price at the time of booking. Alternatively, you may need to call to find out the cost of bringing your pet in cargo. If you have a layover of more than a few hours, it could trigger another pet fee.

There aren't any popular travel credit cards that include specific benefits for flying with pets, but several offer airline incidental credits that can be put towards any fees charged for pet travel.

on American Express' website

on Bank of America's website

Up to $200 annually with your preferred airline. Enrollment required. Terms apply.

Up to $250 annually with your preferred airline. Enrollment required. Terms apply.

Up to $100 annually.

Additional expenses could include the cost of a preflight veterinary visit and pet carrier. Some experts say it’s a good idea to have an identification microchip implanted in your pet in case it gets lost.

» Learn more: How to make traveling with your pet affordable

In our most recent analysis on flying with pets , we ranked the major U.S. airlines on various factors including fees, types of animals allowed, whether you can bring pets in cargo and number of pets allowed per passenger, among other facrtors.

Here's how they stacked up:

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards for pet owners

How much does a dog have to weigh to fly? It varies by airline and whether your dog will fly in the cabin with you or in cargo. In addition, some airlines also have limits on the size of the pet carrier.

For example, if you bring a pet as checked baggage (in cargo) on Hawaiian Airlines, the pet and kennel combined weight cannot exceed 70 lbs. If you’re bringing your furry friend with you in the cabin, it must fit comfortably in its carrier under the seat in front of you. Generally though, the weight limit is much lower if your pet is riding in the cabin with you.

Check with your veterinarian to make sure your dog is healthy enough for air travel. Some species, especially pug-nosed dogs such as boxers and Boston terriers, aren’t allowed to fly on many airlines because it can be hard for them to breathe at high altitudes.

You may also need a health certificate from a veterinarian seven to 10 days before you fly, according to airline industry group Airlines for America.

Aside from health and breed, make sure you're aware of other potential rules, restrictions and guidelines. Visit your airline's website to find out more about your specific trip.

Consider the kennel

Airlines can have lengthy and detailed requirements for the box your dog rides in, often called a crate, carrier or kennel. Generally, the kennel will need to be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around inside. Airlines have maximum size requirements. For example, American Airlines allows an in-cabin carrier kennel of up to 19 inches in length, 13 inches in width and 9 inches in height if it's noncollapsible, larger if it’s collapsible.

Airlines and animal experts say to reduce stress, it’s important to acclimate your dog to the kennel before flying.

Here are kennel tips from Airlines for America — these are especially important if your dog travels as cargo:

Label your dog’s kennel with your contact information.

Write “LIVE ANIMAL” on the top and one side of the kennel. Draw arrows or write “THIS SIDE UP” on two sides of the kennel.

Put bedding or “absorbent material” on the kennel floor.

Attach empty food and water dishes to the inside of the kennel. Ensure they can be accessed from the outside.

Challenges of international flights

Requirements for flying internationally with your dog are more complex and typically require even more planning. And some airlines — Southwest is an example — won't allow pets on international flights at all.

If pets are allowed, you’ll need to obtain an international health certificate and comply with the requirements of your destination country. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service lists regulations by country.

Upon return to the U.S., dogs may need proof of immunization against rabies, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

United, for example, suggests for international trips that you contact the appropriate embassy or consulate at least one month before your trip to check on the specifics of the country's entry procedures.

If you consider your dog an emotional support animal, don't expect any special treatment — and expect to still pay applicable pet fees. A 2021 policy update from the U.S. Department of Transportation stated that emotional support animals are no longer considered service animals, and airlines aren't required to treat them as such.

That means if your dog is an emotional support animal and was previously allowed on airplanes, there's no guarantee it will still fly for free (and it likely won't fly for free). No major U.S. airlines currently recognizes emotional support animals as service animals and now charge pet fees, which can range from $95-$125 or more one-way.

» Learn more: Traveling with a service dog: what to know

Here are our tips for making flying with Fido a smoother experience, from start to finish.

When booking:

Book a nonstop flight if possible. (That’s different from a “direct” flight, which can have stops.) "This will decrease the chances that your pet is left on the tarmac during extreme weather conditions or mishandled by baggage personnel during a layover," according to the website for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

If you must have a layover, some airlines require a minimum layover time when traveling with pets. For example, it might be one hour for domestic flights and two hours for flights outside the continental U.S. The ASPCA recommends you tape a small bag of food outside the kennel so airline workers can feed your dog during these stops.

Try to avoid flying during holidays, which can be busy. In warm weather, try to fly during the morning or evening. In cold weather, midday flights may be better, suggests the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Leading up to travel:

Animal experts generally frown on sedating an animal, and it may not fly with the airline, either. United Airlines, for example, “will not knowingly accept a dog or cat that has been sedated."

The evening before your departure, freeze a dish of water for your dog. That will prevent it from spilling during the loading process, and when it eventually melts, your dog can drink it, advises the ASPCA.

Attach a current photo of your dog to the top of the kennel to help identify it if it escapes the carrier.

Don’t feed your pet in the hours leading up to flight departure because "a full stomach can cause discomfort for a traveling pet," United Airlines' website says. It recommends that you avoid feeding a healthy, large-breed adult dog within four hours of takeoff. "Small-breed puppies younger than 16 weeks and less than 10 pounds may be fed a small meal two to three hours before their flight," the site says.

When checking in:

On the day of flying, arrive at the airport early and check in at the ticket counter with your dog if it’s flying in the cabin. If it’s flying as cargo, check with your airline about where to drop your pet. You might bring it to the passenger terminal if it's traveling as checked luggage or the air cargo terminal, which is usually a different location at the airport. (You might pick up your dog at a cargo terminal, too.

During security screening:

For in-cabin transport of dogs, the kennel goes on the conveyor belt and through the X-ray machine, while you leash your dog and carry or lead it through the metal detector. This can be a hassle, less so if you have membership in TSA PreCheck , which gives you access to quicker lines and means you don’t have to take off your shoes or light jacket.

And remember: Details of airline pet policies vary widely, so it’s best to check directly with the carrier when you’re planning a trip. With a little planning and research, both you and your pet can expect a smooth flight.

Details of pet policies vary widely by airline, so it’s best to check directly with the carrier when you’re planning a trip. Here are links to pet policies of large U.S. airlines:

Alaska Airlines .

American Airlines .

Delta Air Lines .

Hawaiian Airlines .

JetBlue Airways .

Southwest Airlines .

Spirit Airlines .

United Airlines .

Beyond NerdWallet's tips for finding pet-friendly flights and lodging , you can consult the following organizations for more information about flying with your dog:

Kennel fact sheet , International Air Transport Association.

Bringing a dog into the United States , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Travel safety tips , ASPCA.

Flying with pets , Federal Aviation Administration.

Plane talk: Traveling with animals , U.S. Department of Transportation.

Pet travel , U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Traveling with your pet FAQ , American Veterinary Medical Association.

Travel safely with your pet , The Humane Society of the United States.

How to maximize your rewards

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Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

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Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

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75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

What you need to know about traveling with dogs on a plane, including where they can sit and how much it costs

Traveling these days can be complicated at best between navigating pandemic protocols and increased flight delays and cancellations for human passengers. Adding a dog to the mix has the potential to add frustrations to an already stressful situation.

Whether you travel with your four-legged friend frequently or are considering doing so for the first time, here's everything you need to know.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

As you might suspect, not all dogs are allowed on planes, and those that are allowed are restricted to certain spots on a plane. Think of it like pet classes, if you will.

The right to fly primarily depends on a dog's weight, breed and the airline you intend to fly.

Where in the plane can your dog sit?

"Your pet can travel in three ways: as hand luggage in the cabin with you, as excess luggage in the cargo hold of the aircraft or as cargo in the hold of the aircraft," according to Zoo Logistics , a company based in the Netherlands that helps people coordinate travel with pets. "The options for your pet depend on a number of factors, such as the breed and size of your pet, the airline company, the type of aircraft, the destination and whether you will travel on the same flight as your pet."

Most airlines will allow pets to fly in the cabin as luggage or in the hold as excess luggage so long as you'll be flying on the same flight and they meet size and weight restrictions. However, some do require all pets to fly as cargo. You'll want to double-check the airline's policies on traveling with pets before you book your tickets.

If your pet is flying with you as luggage, you'll either be able to keep them in the cabin with you or they will be flown as excess luggage in the hold of the aircraft. Aircraft holds are ventilated and heated to help keep pets comfortable, according to Zoo Logistics. If your pet cannot accompany you (or if they are flying solo), they'll be treated as cargo. Flying with your pets as cargo is doable, but certainly not recommended by most pet owners.

Before you decide to bring your dog on board, make sure to "find a good pet carrier that's sturdy and small enough for all the airlines you fly," says TPG senior writer Katie Genter .

Not only does it need to be the right size, but make sure it's also strong enough to weather flights, especially if your pup tends to chew through carriers.

"I've flown with Murray a handful of times and it's always been fairly easy, aside from the one time he tore his carrier case — we had to jury-rig it shut with a shoestring," TPG senior aviation business reporter David Slotnick recalled of his 4-year-old miniature goldendoodle. "He weighs 18 pounds, so we always fly pet-in-cabin following all of the airline's procedures, and we typically fly Delta."

Related: Can you cruise with your dog, cat or other pets?

Which dog breeds can fly?

Some dogs (and cats) are prohibited from flying altogether, including snub-nosed breeds , brachycephalic breeds of dogs that include the French bulldog and Boston terrier and are prone to heavy breathing. These dogs are banned on certain airlines, including United and Delta, and restricted on others, including Lufthansa , Swiss Airlines and KLM .

To ensure your dog is eligible to fly with a commercial airline, double-check an airline's pet-in-cabin policy, says pet transport service Pets2Fly , which also notes that "flying in-cabin is most likely the safest way to travel" for some breeds.

American Airlines, for example, allows cats and dogs to be carried on if they meet specific size, age and destination requirements, on most flights not exceeding 12 hours to and from select locations. The airline also charges $125 as an extra carry-on pet fee, and the animal must stay in the kennel underneath the seat in front of you throughout the flight.

"If your pet is too large to fly in the cabin, it must travel with American Airlines Cargo," says AA, for which fees vary. Note that many people do not recommend flying your pet in cargo if you can avoid it, particularly during the summer months.

Thanks to these breed restrictions, TPG senior writer Vikkie Walker usually takes Amtrak when traveling with her 4-year-old pug, Migo Jameson Walker .

"Migo can't fly on some airlines, so we take Amtrak. He's a nervous traveler so I have to drug him, feed him peanut butter and have him in my sight on the train," Walker told me. "When we took Amtrak on Thanksgiving, he tried to make a run for it on the train. Generally, I do not enjoy traveling with him and will leave him with a sitter anytime I can."

Related: A comprehensive guide to traveling with pets

Weight limits for flying with dogs

Some airlines have weight limits on pets traveling in the cabin, usually capped at 20 pounds.

"Traveling with my 24-pound dog Chilly Willy is super stressful," says TPG senior editor Clint Henderson. "I'm always worried Chilly won't be allowed to board, but fortunately, Delta and Alaska don't have official weight limits."

If you do have a larger dog, it may be harder to find an airline that will let you keep your dog in the cabin with you. But there are some options available.

Last week, TPG senior aviation reporter Ethan Klapper and his girlfriend flew with their Labrador rescue for the first time on JSX , a semiprivate air carrier.

"For a forthcoming TPG review, my girlfriend and I took Patty from Houston Hobby (HOU) to Dallas Love Field (DAL). I was nervous about this flight because Patty can be a bit anxious — she hates going in the elevator and the noise from garbage trucks. But JSX has a great pet policy and accepts out-of-crate medium- and large-size dogs for the cost of a second seat — with just a very simple form to fill out. Every staffer we encountered, from the staff at Hobby to the flight attendant and the staff at Dallas Love, were wonderful with dogs and really into her. She even got a JSX pet bandana! While JSX has a somewhat limited (but growing) network, I highly recommend using them if you have a larger dog."

Keep an eye out for Klapper's full review of JSX coming soon.

Extra paperwork and fees

"The thing most people may not realize is that when you travel with your pet, some airlines require you to check in at the airport so they can collect your pet travel fee and check your paperwork," said TPG director of content Andrea Rotondo . "So you need to leave plenty of time to do that."

American , Delta and Alaska each state on their website that you'll need to check in before boarding your flight to pay your pet fees, which range from $100-$125.

"The one hassle is that you can't check in online, you need to go to a counter to pay the pet-in-cabin fee and get a tag for the carrier," says Slotnick. "I will say it's frustrating that we need to pay the fee since the pet is part of your regular checked bag allowance."

Additionally, you'll need to show proper identification for your pet .

Increased scrutiny

If you've traveled with a pet recently, you may have experienced increased scrutiny of paid-for pets in carriers.

"Airlines have definitely cracked down on dogs being too big for carry-on since the pandemic," says Mark Lindsay, a senior software engineer at TPG. "My wife was very nearly refused boarding (once on Delta, once on United) for transcontinental flights last fall. The dog was allowed to travel after a good amount of pleading, but we're not taking the risk ever again!"

Bottom line

Only you can decide whether traveling with your pet is worth it. There are quite a few additional hoops you must jump through to ensure they can successfully board the plane.

If you're nervous about traveling with your pup, Slotnick encourages talking to your vet.

"There are options for anti-anxiety medication or even just a dose of children's Benadryl, that can help make the experience easier for your pup," he said. "Another thing that makes the travel experience better for Murray — the in-cabin snacks. We're always sure to share our Cheez-Its and pretzels by popping a couple into the carrier."

Related: Perks for pets, convenience for flyers: Your guide to airport pet boarding facilities

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• Special assistance

Carry on or transport your pet

Depending on animal breed and size, they can travel as a carry-on or be transported through American Airlines Cargo. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements.

We only accept checked pets at the ticket counter for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Fees and restrictions apply.

Fully-trained service dogs may fly in the cabin at no charge if they meet the requirements.

Service animals

Which destinations allow travel with pets?

You can travel with a pet on most flights up to 12 hours or flights to / from select locations:

• Within the 48 contiguous United States
• The U.S. and Canada*
• Puerto Rico

*Additional special restrictions may apply when traveling with pets to / from these destinations.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a temporary suspension of dogs (carry-on or checked), including fully trained service dogs, traveling to the United States (U.S.) from a country considered high-risk for dog rabies.

Only service dogs traveling to the U.S. from high-risk countries with an approved CDC Dog Import Permit, or that meet CDC U.S. vaccination and microchip requirements may fly on American. Contact Special Assistance to request travel with a cat or dog in cabin from a high-risk country.

CDC notice of temporary suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Dogs traveling to the U.S. from countries affected by ‘screwworm’ must meet specific requirements from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services (USDA APHIS VS), including fully trained service dogs.

USDA APHIS VS import requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

The Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources does not accept applications to import assistance or service animals of any species other than dogs.

An assistance or service dog which is accredited by an Australian State or Territory Government will also qualify. In most cases these animals are returning to Australia.

Australian requirements for assistance and service dogs Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

You’ll be responsible for fulfilling all entry requirements and must notify the department of the dog’s intended arrival at least 3 working days before export.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a suspension on the import of commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies.

Commercial dogs will not be permitted to enter Canada from the identified high-risk countries.

CFIA notice of suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Carry-on pets

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to Jamaica.

Additional restrictions

When traveling with a pet to Trinidad and Tobago (POS), you cannot arrive on a flight before 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Continental U.S.

Within the u.s..

Pets traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico must be at least 8 weeks old.

To the U.S.

All dogs (carry-on and checked) traveling to the U.S. must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from Hawaii.

Checked pets

You can travel with your pet to Hawaii as a checked pet if you:

• Only connect via Honolulu (HNL)*
• Follow Hawaii’s quarantine rules

Animal quarantine rules in Hawaii Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

*No pets are accepted on departures out of Honolulu prior to 8 a.m. HT between March 5 and November 1.

You cannot travel with your pet to Hawaii:

• On nonstop flights to Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii or Kauai
• If your pet is pregnant and past 45 days gestation

All pets traveling to Mexico must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Government regulations and vaccinations in Mexico Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

South America

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from:

Transatlantic

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transatlantic trips.

When traveling to the European Union (EU) with a checked pet, you’ll be responsible for completing all entry requirements. Your pet must have a tattoo or implanted microchip that matches the ID number on their vaccination card.

Apart from service animals, you can't travel with a checked pet to the U.K. or Ireland, but you can transport dogs and cats to London (LHR) and Manchester (MAN) with American Airlines Cargo.

Transport your pet with American Airlines Cargo Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Transpacific

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transpacific trips.

Japan exceptions

Although you can travel with a checked pet from Japan to Los Angeles (LAX) or Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), pets are not allowed as checked bags to Japan. According to USDA restrictions, animals should be offered water every 12 hours, so for travel with a checked pet to LAX or DFW, you must book a flight 12 hours or less.

If you’re traveling with a checked pet for travel from Japan, you’ll need to:

• Make sure your pet has a microchip and documents required by the country you are traveling to
• Notify the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service at least 7 days prior to departure to arrange an inspection

Japanese animal quarantine service Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

On flights with American you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if:

• You pay the carry-on pet fee
• Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight

You can bring only one additional item on board with your pet:

• A personal item like a purse or small handbag; or
• A carry-on bag that meets requirements and fits in the overhead bin

Carry-on bags

Remember, you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.

Pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply.

To add a carry-on pet to your trip, follow these steps:

• Find your trip on aa.com or the American app
• In the Special Services section, select ‘Add carry-on pets’
• Review and agree to the carry-on pet requirements
• Select the flights that you want your pet to travel on
• Confirm your carry-on pet to complete the changes

Find your trip

At the airport, go to the American ticket counter to pay the fee and ensure your pet and kennel meet the requirements.

We assume no liability for the health or well-being of carry-on pets. These rules are enforced:

• Pets must be small enough to fit comfortably inside the closed / zipped carrier.
• Non-collapsible kennels can’t exceed the under-seat dimensions of any aircraft included in your journey. Please contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.
• Soft-sided collapsible kennels are recommended and can be slightly larger but still need to fit under the seat without having to excessively collapse the kennel. They must be secure, padded, made of water-repellant material and have nylon mesh ventilation on 3 or more sides.

Carry-on kennel dimensions

Hard-sided kennel.

• Mainline flights on American: 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 centimeters (length + width + height)
• Regional flights on American Eagle: 16 x 12 x 8 inches / 40 x 30 x 20 centimeters (length + width + height)

Soft-sided kennel (recommended)

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 centimeters (length + width + height)

Contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.

Reservations and ticket changes

Flying in First / Business on an A321T?

• Pets must stay in their kennel during your flight and will need to be placed in a dedicated animal friendly compartment at the front of the plane during taxi, take-off, landing and turbulence
• The combined weight of the carrier and your pet can’t exceed 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs., weighed at check-in

We can only accept:

• 7 kennels on American flights, excluding service animals
• 5 kennels on American Eagle flights; 1 in First

Due to the lack of underseat storage space, carry-on pets are not permitted in First or Business on:

As recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), we don’t accept pets that have been sedated or tranquilized. Pets that have been given sedatives or tranquilizers are at a higher risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems at high altitudes.

If your pet is too large to fly in the cabin, it must travel with American Airlines Cargo. Keep in mind, we only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders, and the pet carrier must meet all kennel guidelines for checked-pets. If you don’t meet these requirements, your pet may not travel. Fees and restrictions apply.

Kennel guidelines for checked pets

We only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Up to 2 pets may be checked and they must meet the minimum age and health requirements of the destination. Since capacity is limited, we accept checked pets on a first-come basis.

When checking a pet, you need to:

• Contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel
• Check in at the ticket counter with your official orders
• Allow extra check-in time (at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight)
• Complete a checklist with an agent
• Provide a health certificate

To ensure the health and safety of your pet, the health certificate you provide must be issued by a vet within:

• 10 days of your travel
• 60 days of your return (travel on the same ticket)
• 10 days of your return (travel on a separate ticket)

All USDA health requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

American PetEmbark™

American Airlines Cargo offers the American PetEmbark™ service for pets that don’t qualify to travel as carry-on or checked pets.

Ship your pet through American PetEmbark™ Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

When checking in your pet, there are specific requirements for their kennel:

• Large enough for your pet to stand, turn, sit and lie down in a natural position (without touching any side or the top of the container)
• Must not exceed maximum size requirements of the aircraft you're traveling on
• Must not exceed maximum weight (combined pet and kennel) of 100 lbs. / 45 kgs.
• Be made of wood, metal, plastic or similar materials
• Have a door made of welded or cast metal
• Secured at the top and bottom with bolts or screws
• Secured by yourself with release cable ties on all 4 corners (we’ll provide complimentary ties)
• Be rigid and secure enough so the animal cannot escape through gaps or poke any body part through the container
• Be leak and escape proof with a secure fastened door
• Have ventilation on at least 3 sides for domestic U.S. travel and 4 sides for international travel
• Have separate food and watering dishes attached securely inside the kennel
• Have a small bag of food for a 24-hour period attached to the top
• Be clean and have absorbent material (no straw, hay or wood shavings)

If you travel with 2 of your pets in the same kennel, they must be:

• The same species (2 cats or 2 dogs)
• A similar size and weigh less than 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs. each
• Between 8 weeks and 6 months old

Aircraft restrictions and acceptable kennels

Checked pets cannot travel on:

• A321, A321H, A321neo, A321S

Cat restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic cats of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Exotic Shorthair

Cats must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Dog restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Affenpinscher
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Presa Canario
• Pug (all breeds)
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico. If you're traveling into the U.S., your dog's age and vaccine requirements depend on the risk of dog rabies where your trip starts. Dogs arriving from high-risk countries need to be at least 16 weeks old and have their rabies shots before traveling into the U.S.

Check if your trip starts in a high-risk country.

Flights with connections

If you’re traveling on a connecting flight, checked pets will only be able to connect through these cities:

• Charlotte, NC (CLT)
• Chicago O'Hare, IL (ORD)
• Dallas / Fort Worth, TX (DFW)
• Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
• New York Kennedy, NY (JFK)
• New York LaGuardia, NY (LGA)
• Miami, FL (MIA)
• Philadelphia, PA (PHL)
• Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
• Washington Reagan, DC (DCA)

Food and water

Due to Federal Regulations, you’ll need to provide written certification that:

• Your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours (with the specific time noted) before you deliver them to the airplane
• Is securely and visibly attached to the outside of the kennel
• Has your signature with the date and time you signed it

You’ll also need to provide feeding and watering instructions for a 24-hour period. Unless specified by a vet, you cannot leave instructions saying 'no food or water.'

If you’re flying with American Airlines, you can pay your pet travel fee at the airport or at a travel center with a credit card or paper voucher (where accepted). We don’t accept cash or checks for payment.

We don’t collect pet fees for other operating airlines on your trip (even if it has an American flight number). You’ll need to check in with each airline and pay your fees at check-in. To find out if you're on a partner airline, look for the words, "Operated by" on your ticket.

What's a codeshare?

*Fees shown apply for each destination without a voluntary stopover / connection of 4 hours or more. If your trip includes a voluntary stopover / connection of more than 4 hours, fees apply for each connection segment. All pet fees are non-refundable and apply per kennel, each way. Fees for transporting your pet with American Airlines Cargo may vary depending on the trip details and size of the animal and kennel.

**For tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024, the carry-on pet fee per kennel is $125 and for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024, the fee is $150.

Flights departing Canada

Find out how much you'll pay for pet and other fees on roundtrip and one-way flights departing Canada, displayed in CAD.

Pet and other fees - Canada

Temperature restrictions

We have temperature restrictions to make sure checked pets and pets traveling with American Airlines Cargo aren’t exposed to extreme heat or cold:

• In the animal holding areas
• At terminal facilities
• When moving the animals between terminal and the plane
• On a plane awaiting departure

You cannot travel with a pet if the current or forecasted temperature is above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

Pets not traveling in cabin cannot travel to / through / from Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS) or Palm Springs (PSP) May 1 – September 30.

You cannot travel with a pet if the ground temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

We may waive the cold temperature restrictions if you have a written letter from a licensed vet that includes:

• Your name and address
• Your pet’s name
• Your vet’s name and signature
• Your vet’s accreditation date and number
• The temperature your pet is acclimated to

The letter must be dated:

• Within 10 days of the first flight your pet will be on
• Within 30 days of any other trips in the same itinerary

You may need an additional letter for lengthy trips. If the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 degrees C), your pet cannot be checked even with a letter from your vet.

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

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Everything You Need to Know About Traveling on a Plane with Your Dog

All the rules you need to know before you book a trip for your dog in the cabin or cargo hold of a plane

When a French bulldog named Kokito died on a flight in March 2018, the incident left many pet parents and animal lovers concerned. The dog’s owner, Catalina Robledo , was traveling with her daughter, her infant son and Kokito on a United flight from Houston to New York City.

The family was seated, with Kokito in a carrier under the seat in front of Robledo, when a flight attendant insisted the dog's carrier — which the attendant said was blocking the aisle — be placed in the overhead bin.

"And we're like, 'It's a dog, it's a dog.' And she's like, 'It doesn't matter, you still have to put it up there,' " Robledo's daughter told Good Morning America . "She helped her put it up, and she just closed it like it was a bag."

United Airlines spokesperson Maggie Schmerin told PEOPLE , “Our flight attendant did not hear or understand her and did not knowingly place the dog in the overhead bin."

Kokito ended up traveling in the overhead bin for the duration of the three-hour flight, barking from the bin at least 30 minutes into the trip. When Robeldo went to get her dog at the end of the trip, she discovered the canine had died .

"A stranger offered to hold her newborn while she sat on the floor, there in the airplane aisle. She was holding her dog and rocking back and forth. Her daughter was also crying," fellow passenger Maggie Gremminger told PEOPLE about the heartbreaking moment.

Kokito’s death and the following criminal investigation sparked a larger discussion about dog owners' rights when traveling with their pets and the rules regarding air travel and canines.

Your dog's weight, temperament, carrier and more can change what rules you have to follow during plane travel. Before you get on a plane with your dog, make sure you know what to expect and what restrictions the airlines have.

To make it easier for traveling dog owners everywhere, PEOPLE rounded up everything you need to know before boarding a plane with your pooch.

Traveling with Small Pet Dogs

Most domesticated dogs weighing 20 pounds or less are allowed to travel with their owners in the cabin of the plane. Owners cannot simply bring their pets on board. There are several rules and restrictions that dog owners must follow before they travel to get the okay to bring their small canines on board with them.

Registration

Most flights only allow a limited number of pets on board, and most major airlines ( aside from JetBlue , which has online registration) require that you call the airline in advance to let it know a small dog will be traveling with you. It's best to inform the airline as early as possible because if all the pet spots for your flight are filled when you call, they will not allow your dog to fly with you on that flight. If the dog you are traveling with is a service or emotional support animal , this limit does not apply.

As part of your registration process, you will have to pay a fee to bring your pet on board. These fees are usually between $95-$150 each way and apply to pets, but not to emotional support animals and service animals.

If your dog is flying in the cabin, it has to travel in a TSA-approved pet carrier (soft- or hard-sided) that is well-ventilated and can fully fit under the plane seat in front of you. Each airline has its own size restrictions on pet carriers; make sure to check in advance that the carrier you plan to use fits.

Pre-Flight Paperwork

Many airlines do not require dog owners to provide health records for their pet before the flight, though pet policies are changing. In March 2018, Delta began requiring anyone traveling with an animal to provide health and vaccination records at least 48 hours before the flight . Pet owners traveling with Delta also must sign a behavior voucher stating their animal will behave for the duration of the flight. Regardless of whether the airline you are using demands paperwork or not, it is always smart to travel with your dog's medical records and license in case there is an issue during your trip. Make sure to check before your trip what paperwork your airline requires and if the destination (especially tropical destinations) you are traveling to also needs records.

Age Restrictions

Some airlines do not allow young dogs to travel in-cabin with their owners. Check with your airline to see if there are age restrictions if you are traveling with a dog 16 weeks old or younger.

Your pet carrier will count as a carry-on bag or personal item, so pack accordingly. If you want to bring a carry-on and a personal item onto the flight in addition to your pet's carrier, you will have to pay for an extra bag. At some airlines, up to two pets can travel in one carrier if the carrier and animals don't weigh more than 20 pounds together.

International Travel

Most airlines will not allow you to travel with a small pet in the cabin on an international flight or on a flight where you are connecting to an international flight. In these cases, your small dog must travel in the cargo hold. There are some exceptions, though, so check with your airline to see what international travel it allows with an in-cabin pet.

If you are traveling with a pet in-cabin, you must check in at the airport with your pet. It is important to leave time in your travel schedule to check your pet in at the counter since you will not be able to check them in online or at a kiosk.

Pets do not go through the X-ray machine for baggage. When you reach security, remove your pet from its carrier and send the carrier through the X-ray machine. You and your pet will walk through security together, and then you can place them back in the carrier.

At the Airport

Dogs must stay in their carriers while at the airport unless they are using a pet relief area. If the airport does not have pet relief areas, you and your dog will have to leave the airport and return through security.

On the plane, your small pet must remain in the carrier at all times. You cannot remove the animal from the carrier while on the plane. The carrier containing your dog can only go completely under the seat in front of you. Carriers cannot be stored on your lap, in an overhead bin or anywhere else. Your dog must remain in its carrier under the seat in front of you for the duration of the trip.

Behavior Rules

Airlines have the right to have you and your pet removed from a flight or deny you and your pet boarding if your dog acts aggressively toward airline staff or other travelers.

Traveling with Larger Pet Dogs

Dogs over 20 pounds, unless they are emotional support or service dogs, will have to travel in the cargo hold of the plane. Not all airlines offer this option since the cargo hold needs to be pressurized to allow pet travel. When planning a trip with a larger dog, ensure the airline you are using offers a travel option for larger pets. Cargo-hold travel differs from in-cabin travel in many ways, but the biggest is that you will not have access to your pet during your flight. Your dog will spend the entirety of the flight, including tarmac delays, in the cargo hold, where there can be fluctuations in temperature.

Booking a Cargo Hold Trip

Most airlines don't allow you to book a pet via cargo until 10 days before your trip. Check to see when your airline allows pets traveling in cargo to be booked and try to set your pet's travel plans as early as you can to prevent stress down the line.

Crate Requirement

Larger dogs should be in a crate large enough for them to move and stand freely, including turning their head. It also needs to be large enough for them to stand and sit without the top of their head or ears touching the roof of the crate. Crates must also have a solid roof with no holes and one secure-close metal door. Crates need to be made of rigid material that does not bend when pressure is applied. For cargo travel, you will likely need to buy a different carrier than the one you have since most pet carriers have materials and design elements not permitted for cargo travel.

Documentation

The documents required for your pet's travel varies based on where you are traveling from and where you are going. Contact both the consulate of the countries you are traveling to and your veterinarian to make sure your dog has all the required paperwork for your trip. The airline will require all travelers sending their pets through cargo to fill out forms for the airline and provide a health certificate from the dog's vet. This health certificate must be issued shortly before your pet travels (usually 10 days or less). If you are going on a long trip with your dog, you may be required to get a new health certificate for the return trip.

There are age restrictions for pets traveling via cargo. If your dog is 16 weeks or younger, contact the airline you are traveling with to ensure that your pet can fly in the cargo hold.

Breed Restrictions

Every airline that flies pets through cargo has different breed restrictions. Some dog breeds (like English bulldogs ) may be prohibited from flying due to breathing problems they may encounter during the trip. Other breeds are allowed to fly, but only during certain months, in certain carriers and at certain ages. These restrictions are for your pet's safety. Make sure to check with your airline that your dog is allowed to fly in its cargo hold.

Rates vary based on your destination and the size of your pet. Travel fees for pets traveling via cargo usually start around $200 one-way.

Pick-up and Drop-off

To have your dog flown through cargo, you must drop them off at a special location at least two to three hours before your flight and then pick them up at the cargo location of your destination, which is usually different from where you pick up your bags. Check with the airline you are using to see when they require pets to be dropped off at cargo and where the cargo pick-up and drop-off locations are for your trip. Leave extra time in your travel schedule to make these stops as stress-free as possible.

Traveling with Emotional Support Animals

If you have an emotional support dog, you can travel with your animal, often free of charge, as long as you prepare the correct paperwork and your dog can fit comfortably on your lap or in the space in front of your seat. Exact size restrictions vary for each airline, as do paperwork requirements. Most airlines need a letter from your doctor that is less than a year old (and meets several requirements), stating that your dog is flying with you to help with a mental or emotional condition. Your emotional support animal can be denied boarding or removed from the plane if it shows aggressive behavior toward passengers and/or flight staff. Contact the airline you are traveling with to understand the specific paperwork it requires and to inform them that you are traveling with an emotional support animal.

Traveling with a Service Dog

Service dogs travel free of charge. Since 2018, Delta has required that service dog owners submit health records at least 48 hours before their flight before their flight. To prevent issues at the gate, check with your airline to see if any paperwork is required prior to boarding. Service dogs are allowed to sit on their owner's lap or in the space in front of their seat.

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Pets in the Passenger Cabin

Are there any airlines that do not allow pets to travel in the passenger cabin? Some airlines do not allow any pets to travel in the cabin. You can call the airline you are traveling on to find out if they allow pets in the passenger cabin.

Can I be sure that there will be no animals on my flight if an airline does not allow pets in the cabin? No, you can't be sure. The Department of Transportation ( DOT ) has  rules (14  CFR  part 382)   ( PDF )  that require airlines to allow passengers to fly with their service animals in the cabin on all U.S. airlines. Service animals are not pets. They are working animals that assist persons with disabilities. There is no limit to the number of service animals that can be on any flight. Service animals do not need any health certificates to travel and they do not need to be confined in a container or cage.

How do I find out if an airline allows pets to travel in the passenger cabin and what their policies and procedures are? You can find out what the specific policies and procedures are for each airline in several ways. You can call the airline's reservations line and get information from the agent who takes your call. You can also look at an airline's website to get information about their policies for traveling with pets.

I have severe allergies to pet dander. How can I be sure that there is no pet dander on my flight? You will still be exposed to pet dander on every flight, even without any pets in the passenger cabin. This is because most allergens are carried into the cabin on the clothes of other passengers.

Then what should I do if I am allergic to pet dander, but I need to fly? First, you can reduce the chance that there will be an animal in the cabin on your flight. You can fly on an airline that does not allow pets in the cabin. You can also ask the reservations agent for your airline if another passenger on the same flight has made reservations to travel with a pet. You should also check with your allergist or doctor before your trip to discuss travel related risks and ask if you should carry medications with you. If a reaction should occur during the flight, follow your doctor's treatment instructions and ask a flight attendant for assistance.

What are the  FAA  rules regarding traveling with pets in the passenger cabin? The Federal Aviation Administration ( FAA ) allows each airline to decide if they will allow you to travel with your pet in the passenger cabin. If an airline does allow you to bring your pet into the cabin, we consider your pet container to be carry-on baggage and you must follow all carry on baggage  rules (14  CFR  part 121, section 121.589) :

• Your pet container must be small enough to fit underneath the seat without blocking any person's path to the main aisle of the airplane.
• Your pet container must be stowed properly before the last passenger entry door to the airplane is closed in order for the airplane to leave the gate.
• Your pet container must remain properly stowed the entire time the airplane is moving on the airport surface, and for take off and landing.
• You must follow flight attendant instructions regarding the proper stowage of your pet container.

What kind of general procedures do most airlines have in place? If an airline allows you to travel with your pet in the cabin, you must follow all  FAA  regulations. Usually, most airlines have additional policies and procedures for you to follow to make sure that the flight is comfortable for all passengers on the airplane. These additional procedures may include

• A limited list of the types of pets that you can bring into the cabin
• A limit on the number of pets in the cabin
• A limit on the number of pets that may accompany you on the airplane
• A requirement that your pet be harmless, inoffensive and odorless
• A requirement that your pet remain in the container for the entire flight
• A requirement that you be able to produce a recently issued health certificate for your pet

Where can I go to get more information about traveling with pets in the passenger cabin? You can get more information about traveling with your pet from the following:

• Department of Transportation
• U.S. Department of Agriculture
• National Center for Infectious Diseases
• AC  121-36 : Management of Passengers who may be Sensitive to Allergens

• Site search

Air travel and short-nosed dogs FAQ

In July 2010, the U.S. Department of Transportation released statistics that showed short-nosed breeds of dogs—such as pugs, Boston Terriers, boxers, some mastiffs, Pekingese, Lhasa Apsos, Shih tzus and bulldogs—are more likely to die on airplanes than dogs with normal-length muzzles. In fact, over the last 5 years, approximately one-half of the 122 dog deaths associated with airline flights involved these short-faced breeds. 25 of the 122 dogs that died over the 5-year period were English bulldogs, followed by 11 pugs, the only other breed in double digits. Although these numbers seem a bit scary, keep in mind that this is a very small number when compared to the hundreds of thousands of animals that fly every year.

Q: Why are these dog breeds more prone to respiratory problems?

A: Veterinarians have long known that short-nosed – the technical term is brachycephalic – dog breeds are more prone to respiratory problems under normal circumstances, and not just during air travel. You see, brachycephalic breeds are prone to respiratory problems because, although they have shortened noses, they still have to pack all of the same anatomical structures in there that dogs with longer snouts do. Just because their snouts are shorter doesn't mean they're missing any parts – they still have to pack nasal passages, sinuses, and a hard palate into that small area. It's sort of like moving from a house to an apartment and having to put the same amount of furniture in the apartment – it's all there, but it can be a bit cramped. The situation is worsened if the dog is overweight or obese.

Q: What kinds of respiratory problems can these dog breeds have?

A: As a result of the tighter space, they are prone to problems such as smaller-than-normal nostrils, a longer-than-normal soft palate, and a narrowed trachea (or windpipe). Because of these abnormalities, they don't breathe as efficiently as dogs with normal-length snouts and can have difficulty cooling off when they're playing or exercising, or if they're stressed or overheated. And when they're stressed, their airway can actually collapse (either partially or completely) and cut off their airflow. It's like breathing through a straw – if you gently suck through the straw, there's no problem getting air. But when you really try to suck hard through the straw, similar to what these dogs may do when they're stressed, exercising or overheating, the straw collapses and you don't get air. This doesn't always cause death, but it can cut off their oxygen supply temporarily and cause the dogs to collapse or overheat.

Q: How do these problems put these dog breeds at higher risk during flights?

A: Because of their anatomical abnormalities, short-nosed breeds seem to be more vulnerable to changes in air quality and temperature in the cargo hold of a plane. Although pets are transported in pressurized cargo holds and get much the same air that the passengers in the cabin do, the air circulation might not be ideal for your pet's individual needs (and remember, your dog is in a crate that could also be affecting ventilation). In addition, remember that there isn't anyone in that hold area that can monitor your pet and provide help if needed – so if there's a problem, you won't know until the plane has landed and your pet has been unloaded.

Q: So, what's a pet owner to do? Should I never fly with a short-nosed pet?

A: We're not saying you should completely avoid air travel with your pet, even with a short-nosed pet. Knowing there are risks is half the battle, and with proper precautions, you can minimize the risks. If you know you're going to be traveling with your pet on an airplane, it really helps to prepare ahead of time.

Q: What can I do to reduce the risks of airline travel for my short-nosed pet?

A: There are many things you can do, including: 

• Keep your pet healthy and at a normal weight. Pets with underlying medical conditions may be more likely to have problems during transport. Elderly and obese pets may also be at higher risk.
• Getting your pet used to its traveling crate can really reduce stress while traveling. Think about it...when you're on a plane, you understand what's going on while taking off and landing or even when there's turbulence, but your pet doesn't know what's happening, and this can be stressful – and this can add to the stress your pet may already have if it's in a travel carrier for the first time. If your pet is used to the travel crate, it's more likely to be comfortable in the crate and travel with less stress. And remember, ALL travel crates, regardless of the breed of dog being transported, need to be secure so your pet can't escape.
• Although it can be comforting to your pet to have a familiar-smelling item in its travel crate, avoid thick blankets, fluffy towels or cloth items that your pet can wrap itself or bury its nose in – this could increase the risk of respiratory problems. A very thin blanket or flat newspaper is best for lining the crate.
• The airline may charge an additional fee for pets in the cabin, and many airlines place limits on the number of pets allowed in the cabin.
• In addition, airlines may have specific restrictions on the size of carriers allowed in the cabin as well as in the hold.
• Some airlines may not allow certain breeds of dogs to be transported in the cargo holds of their planes, and airlines such as Continental Airlines also have embargo policies based on the size of the aircraft and the environmental conditions. For example, an airline may refuse to allow short-nosed dogs to be transported in the hold during certain times of the year (due to environmental temperatures) or on certain flights (based on the size of the plane). Most of the embargos apply to animals transported in the hold, and do not apply to pets in the cabin.
• Try to minimize layovers where your pet might be kept in the cargo hold or sitting on the tarmac in temperatures that aren't comfortable for it. For example, in warmer months, or when you're traveling to a warm destination, only fly earlier or later in the day to avoid the mid-day high temperatures so the cargo area doesn't get uncomfortably hot. During cold weather, or when flying to a colder destination, try to fly during the warmer parts of the day.
• Visit your veterinarian within 10 days before any interstate trip you take with your pet, but particularly before airplane trips. Pet owners are required by law to get a certificate of veterinary inspection (often called a health certificate) from their veterinarian for any trip that crosses state lines, and the airlines often require a copy of the health certificate before they'll let your pet fly. If you have a short-nosed breed of dog, ask your veterinarian about your pet's respiratory health and what precautions you can take to minimize the risks for your pet.
• Your veterinarian can help you figure our what kind and size travel carrier you should get and how best to mark it with your personal information to make sure you and your pet are reunited after the flight, what kind of animal identification is appropriate (such as tags, microchip, etc.), and when you should feed your pet during travel.
• We strongly recommend that you avoid tranquilizing your pet for air travel, because it can increase your pet's risk of injury and health problems.

Q: What about short-nosed cat breeds? Are they also at risk?

A: Because they tend to be smaller, most cats travel in carriers in the passenger cabin with their owners, so there are less reported deaths in cats. However, there are short-faced cat breeds, and they may also be prone to more respiratory problems than cats with normal-length faces – so be cautious if your short-faced cat needs to travel in the cargo hold.

As always, talk to your veterinarian if you have ANY concerns about your pet's health.

Related resources

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling with Your Pet Traveling with Your Pet (brochure)   "Short-Faced" Dogs More Prone to Death in Flight, According to DOT Data (U.S. Department of Transportation)

Your Dog Can Now Fly in Luxury With a New Airline Just for Them

A new airline will take its first flight Thursday—with dogs as its passengers.

BARK, a company that sells dog food and toys, announced in April that it was launching a new aviation experience for dogs, called BARK Air. The airline will allow pets to travel with their owners as their plus ones in the aircraft cabin, rather than in crates in the cargo hold.

The airline’s first flight, traveling from New York to Los Angeles, is sold out, according to the company’s booking website . Tickets aren’t cheap though—a one-way flight from New York to Los Angeles in June costs $6,000, and a flight from New York to London costs $8,000 (one ticket is for both a dog and its human). The company said that its goal is to bring the cost of tickets down over time.

BARK said it created the air travel service “because, despite incredible demand from dog people, there is simply no good or convenient solution to traveling long distances with your dog.” 

“We recognize and believe that life is better—for you and for your dog—when you are together,” the company said on its website. “We partnered with a jet charter company to meticulously build out an in-flight experience from the ground up that is focused solely on the comfort and happiness of the dog first, and human second.”

“Bottom Line: No dog should fly in a crate,” the company added.

In 2019, 404,556 animals were transported by airlines, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics .

Canine passengers will be able to socialize with one another during the flight, and will be offered treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and beverages. There will be designated relief areas for canine passengers to use before boarding the plane, and if they need to relieve themselves on the aircraft, airline staff will have emergency pads, the company said on its website .

Currently, the airline offers flights between New York and Los Angeles, as well as between New York and London. But BARK plans to expand the service and offer more routes in the future.

BARK Air doesn’t own or operate the aircrafts; it’s a public charter operator. The aircrafts are Gulfstream G5 jets , and can seat 15 dogs and their humans, but BARK Air said it will only sell 10 tickets per flight to ensure that all passengers have enough space. There are no size or breed restrictions for dogs.

“The initial launch of BARK Air is only the beginning—our first step in achieving our vision for dog-first travel,” the company said on its website.

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Air travel has gone to the dogs — literally. Here’s what to know about BARK Air

BARK Air officially launched this week, completing its first flight from New York to Los Angeles on Thursday. It also flies to London and aims to add more routes in the coming months.

Joe Gall / BARK

Flying with your dog in first class may sound like a far-fetched dream for many pet lovers. But a new boutique airline launching this week aims to make the “white paw experience” a reality.

BARK Air describes itself as “the world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second.”

"BARK Air has taken the white glove experience typical of a human's first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches – from booking to arrival, to in-flight services and disembarkation, dogs will truly be the VIPs and treated to a positively luxurious, curated experience," it said in an announcement last month .

BARK Air officially got off the ground on Wednesday afternoon, when its inaugural flight ferried six dogs of varying breeds — from Chihuahuas to a Golden Retriever — and 11 humans (both passengers and crew) from New York to Los Angeles.

The Very Important Pups were treated to chicken-flavored puppuccinos, special cupcakes and a shoe — on a platter — to snack on, according to BARK Chief of Staff Katharine Enos. She told NPR over email that there was “no drama on board.”

“Brooklyn (dachshund) and Eddy (golden) [were] friends and played and the little dogs took nice long naps most of the way,” she added. “After lunch it was nap time for everyone. No potty accidents on board or stolen food either! Everyone felt connected in the way we were obsessed with our dogs.”

Introducing BARK Air: A 100% totally real airline for dogs. We're dog people, and we are tired of there being no truly dog-friendly options when it comes to air travel. Now booking the best-in-class dog focused flight imaginable at https://t.co/eZqVYMC5W3 pic.twitter.com/bzcY2rSO4h — BARK (@bark) April 11, 2024

The airline is a subsidiary of BARK, the company behind dog-focused brands like the subscription service BarkBox. Co-founder and CEO Matt Meeker says he’s been working towards this idea for over a decade.

He was inspired by his late Great Dane Hugo, who traveled with him often but could never fit on a plane — like many non-lap dogs, Hugo would have had to fly in the cargo area rather than the cabin. (Meeker even flew from Florida to New York in a cargo crate to show how disorienting that experience can be, as part of Bark Air's promotional campaign.)

Many airlines have tightened restrictions for emotional support animals on board in recent years. The logistics and cost of travel can be a highly emotional issue for many families who don't want to leave their dogs behind when relocating, let alone vacationing, Meeker says.

“We don't think of ourselves as selling dog toys or seats on an airline,” Meeker told NPR in a phone interview. “We think of ourselves as selling awesome emotional experiences with your dog.”

It’s also an expensive one: BARK Air flights between New York and LA cost $6,000 for one dog and one human (or one human and two dogs collectively under 50 pounds) in each direction, and one-way flights between New York and London go for $8,000.

Potential customers were quick to bemoan the cost, with one social media user joking that her pup would need to start selling “paw pics” to make it work.

Meeker acknowledged that “the price is high, and it’s too high.” But he said innovations, especially related to transportation, often become less expensive over time — and he hopes that will be the case with BARK Air, too.

“We have pretty clear ways of bringing those prices down if the demand is there, and that’s what we aim to do,” he added. “We want to make this affordable and accessible for as many dogs as possible.”

The airline aims to pamper passengers, both pups and people

The airline doesn't have dog size or breed restrictions but only allows humans over age 18 (or 126 in dog years).

On BARK Air, the drinks come in bowls, leashes replace seat belts, champagne is made of chicken broth and the bathroom is, well, anywhere.

“When they feel they need to go, they go,” Meeker said of the dog. “And then we clean up after them. And then we clean the plane between every turn.”

It’s one of the many unique perks — and logistical challenges — of an airline for dogs. BARK has partnered with a New York-based charter company called Talon Air, which provides the pilots, flight crew and plane, a Gulfstream V.

The jets accommodate 14 human passengers, but BARK is capping them at 10 to offer extra space. Meeker says it aims to make the experience as comfortable as possible for dogs, starting “even before the flight.”

BARK Air will do a “pup intake” to learn about the dogs’ temperament and preferences. On the day of the flight, humans are advised to show up an hour early to the terminal, where they’ll present their ID and walk straight onto the plane.

“And so what we've bypassed there is a busy commercial airport and a very rigid TSA environment, and treating the dog as just another piece of luggage,” Meeker said.

Dogs and humans get served their meals — and stow away their toys — before the flight takes off to avoid potential territorial disputes. Once in the air, dogs are offered perks like a spa treatment and blankets covered with pheromones for extra comfort. Meeker says the in-flight crew is trained in dog CPR and “fear-free behavioral practices.”

The airline has no dog size or breed restrictions, but humans must be over 18 (aka 126 in dog years). Once on board, humans are advised to keep their dogs leashed as much as possible and ask before approaching others’.

Meeker, who traveled with his dog on two recent test flights between Florida and New York, says people hoped the dogs would misbehave for purposes of the experiment — but they did anything but, even during moments of “pretty significant turbulence.”

“They calmed everyone down, they floated around, they'd take someone’s seat,” he said. “A strange dog, like, not your dog, would wander up, sit on the couch next to you, put their head in your lap, and it’s like, ‘Oh, that’s great.’ ”

He added, “I don’t know why I’m surprised by this, but the dogs made it magical.”

Demand already appears to be taking off

BARK Air is partnering with charter company Talon Air to offer several flights per month. Some are already sold out for June and July.

Meeker said the initial reaction to BARK Air’s launch has been “really overwhelming and positive.”

BARK Air is offering about four round-trip cross-country flights a month, with several already sold out for June and July. It’s already planning to expand its routes, starting with a New York to Paris trip beginning in the fall.

“About a third of people apparently buy their air travel six months in advance,” he said. “So we just published our schedule through the end of the year in order to serve that crowd better.”

The airline is soliciting requests for additional destinations, and Meeker said it received over 15,000 in the first week alone.

They’ve heard from military families who are moving, people who travel for business and New Yorkers spending summers outside the city — all of whom want their dogs there too. Meeker also noted significant demand from snowbirds who want to go south with their dogs for the winter and many requests for flights in and out of Chicago.

“We're just processing that information and choosing the dates, and we're learning a lot,” he added.

He hopes the forthcoming data will allow the company to make more cost-effective decisions soon.

“We’re probably doing this the most expensive way we could, which is chartering a private plane from a private owner,” he explained.

The next step would be to make a longer commitment with the charter company, leasing the plane for a month or even a year to bring down costs. Even better would be buying and outfitting a plane. Meeker has his eye on a Boeing 747 model with a back half dedicated to cargo that could serve as an additional source of revenue.

He says this team already has a design that would feature private cabins with lay-flat beds, a central “dog park” and a bar, for dog and human socializing, respectively.

“That’s the dream,” he added. “But it’ll take a little bit of time to get there.”

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A New Airline for Dogs Takes Flight

Bark Air made its inaugural flight from New York and Los Angeles this week. But seats are pricey, costing up to $8,000

Daily Correspondent

Ask any pet parent, and they’ll tell you the same thing: Traveling with dogs is complicated.

Taking a road trip is one option, but driving can add hours or even days to the journey. And flying, while faster, presents its own set of challenges.

When it comes to pets who aren’t service animals, most commercial airlines only allow small dogs—typically, those weighing up to 20 pounds—to accompany their human owners in the aircraft’s cabin. And, even then, these companies require owners to keep their pup in a pet carrier that must be stowed under the seat in front of them for the entire flight. Larger dogs are relegated to the cargo hold beneath the plane—a terrifying and potentially dangerous experience.

Now, a new “ dog-first” airline aims to relieve all that stress. Bark Air , an airline created by the pet company Bark , took its inaugural flight on Thursday, transporting a sold-out plane full of pups and their human companions from New York to Los Angeles.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BARK Air (@barkair)

“Right now, at an altitude of 30,000 feet, there is a flight filled with dogs,” the company wrote on Instagram . “Unlike any flight before it, these dogs are not merely an afterthought, nor are they treated as cargo or a burden to the crew and fellow travelers. Here, dogs are the foremost priority.”

To deliver its “white paw” service, the company is partnering with Talon Air , a private jet charter company that flies Gulfstream G500 jets.

Before takeoff, dogs can snack on treats and wear noise-canceling earmuffs and calming jackets to ensure they have a stress-free flight. Once in the air, flight attendants serve dogs their beverage of choice to help with any ear discomfort as the plane ascends and descends. Pups can choose whether to socialize with other dogs or stick close to their human.

“We think dogs should be right next to you on the seat, getting the same or—in our case—even better treatment and experiences than people do,” Dave Stangle, Bark’s vice president of brand marketing, tells the Points Guy ’s Harriet Baskas.

The flights aren’t cheap: It costs $6,000 for a dog and its human to book a one-way flight from New York to Los Angeles, or $8,000 for a ticket from New York to London.

The company’s executives acknowledged that the prices are “cost-prohibitive for most families,” but said they expect the flights to get cheaper as demand increases, CBS News ’ Megan Cerullo reports.

“Televisions, telephones, VCRs and DVD players, to automobiles, train and boat travel, and, yes, even human air travel—all of these started with very high prices until demand was proven and the costs could be brought lower by serving the masses,” wrote Matt Meeker, Bark’s chief executive officer and co-founder, in a May letter quoted by CBS News.

United States airlines transported 188,223 animals in 2022, the most recent year with available data from the Department of Transportation . Of those, seven animals died, one was injured and one was lost, resulting in an incident rate of 0.48 per 10,000. That’s similar to the prepandemic rate of 0.47 incidents per 10,000 animals in 2019, when U.S. airlines transported 404,556 animals.

Though the overall rate is low, airline incidents involving pets often make headlines . Even when flights go smoothly, many dogs experience discomfort and anxiety while flying in the cargo hold. To illustrate this point, Meeker volunteered to ride inside a crate in the cargo hold of a plane on a nearly four-hour flight from south Florida to New York City.

“I don’t know why any person would ever choose to do this to their dog,” Meeker said in a video posted on Instagram . “It’s an absolute horror show back here. There has to be a better way.”

Bark is not the first company to offer dog-friendly flights. K9 Jets , which launched in 2022 , offers pay-per-seat private jet service for dogs and their owners. The company flies to Dubai, Dublin, Florida, Frankfurt, Hawaii, Lisbon, London, Los Angeles, Milan, New Jersey and Paris. It can also accommodate cats, though it requires them to stay inside a carrier for the entire flight.

Some private jet companies, including NetJets and VistaJet, also cater to pets on flights. VistaJet , for example, serves “prime cuts of fresh meat and fish” upon request.

“I just don’t understand why the airlines don’t recognize the business opportunity,” Rusty Rueff, who has a French bulldog named Theo, told the New York Times ’ Christine Chung last year. “We’ll do anything for our pets, just like we’ll do anything for our children.”

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Sarah Kuta is a writer and editor based in Longmont, Colorado. She covers history, science, travel, food and beverage, sustainability, economics and other topics.

Watch CBS News

Bark Air, a new airline for dogs, set to take its first flight

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: May 23, 2024 / 10:57 AM EDT / MoneyWatch

Bark Air, a new airline that puts dogs before their human companions, will take its first flight Thursday. Its sold-out maiden voyage will depart New York for Los Angeles at 4:00 p.m. EST. 

Bark, a pet company founded in 2011 that sells dog food and other products, announced the new aviation experience for canines in April. It's the second air travel service to market itself as catering to pets before human passengers, recognizing how stressful and uncomfortable commercial air travel can be for animals . United Kingdom-based public charter operator K9 jets also lets passengers' pets travel next to them in the aircraft cabin, versus in crates in commercial aircraft cargo holds.

"We are excited to take the insights we've learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies," Bark co-founder and CEO Matt Meeker said in April. "We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand's mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the Bark family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world." 

The first flight from New York to Los Angeles Thursday is sold out, according to Bark's booking website. The company said it launched the air travel experience to make long-distance travel more comfortable for dogs that don't fit under the seats in front of passengers on commercial aircraft. 

"Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to a duffle bag, or endure the stress of flying in cargo," the company said in announcing the flights in April.

Bark Air says it will offer "white paw service" to its canine customers — who'll even get to socialize with other dogs in what the company calls a "dog-centric" cabin configuration. Like first-class human passengers, dogs on board will be offered treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, a beverage of their choice and other surprises, the company said. 

Initially, the service will fly between the New York City metro area and Los Angeles, as well as from New York to London. More routes will be added soon, the company said. 

Bark Air will operate as a public charter service, flying on spacious Gulfstream G5 jets. It does not own or operate any aircraft. Each dog ticket comes with a pass for one human. Families may also purchase additional passes. Children under the age of 18 are not permitted aboard. There are no size or breed restrictions for dogs. 

The service doesn't come cheap. A one-way flight from New York to Los Angeles in June costs $6,000 for one dog and one human. A New York to London ticket costs $8,000. 

Meeker acknowledged the service's high cost in a May letter, but said he expects prices to come down as demand climbs.

"This is cost-prohibitive for most families, but less expensive than most options today. And this is also how most innovative products and services began," he said. "Televisions, telephones, VCRs and DVD players, to automobiles, train and boat travel, and, yes, even human air travel — all of these started with very high prices until demand was proven and the costs could be brought lower by serving the masses."

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.

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When pups fly: BARK Air, the world's first airline for dogs, take first flight

Bark air says that it has taken the 'white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches.' that experience comes at a cost..

The first jet charter company in the world in which every passenger is a VIP (very important pup) is now off the ground.

BARK Air , launched by dog toy company BARK in partnership with a jet charter service, is a luxury airline for man's best friend that transports dogs of all sizes along with their owners “in comfort and in style,” CEO Matt Meeker said in a video provided by Reuters that takes the public behind the scenes of the new airline.

"We’re here to revolutionize flying for dogs," says BARK Air's website.

Tickets sold out for BARK Air's first flight , which took off at 4 p.m. ET from New York, headed to Los Angeles. And flights are filling fast for the month of June.

Here's what you need to know about the new airline, including how much flights cost.

Dogs take first Bark Air flight

BARK Air shared details of the company's first flight on Thursday in an Instagram post.

"Right now, at an altitude of 30,000 feet, there is a flight filled with dogs. Unlike any flight before it, these dogs are not merely an afterthought, nor are they treated as cargo or a burden to the crew and fellow travelers. Here, dogs are the foremost priority," the company posted.

BARK Air continued to say that the effort took 10 years, "but we are finally confident that we can provide all dogs with the air travel experience they deserve: one that puts them first."

One user commented that "this really is the pawfect flight!" Another said: "We woof to see this."

BARK Air's prices aren't cheap

Pet owners can expect to pay $8,000 for a one-way international flight and $6,000 one way for a domestic flight that covers both them and their dog.

For now, routes will serve the New York City metro area via Westchester County Airport (HPN), with flights to the Los Angeles area via Van Nuys (VNY) and London, England via Biggin Hill (BQH), according to BARK Air's website.

What to expect flying BARK Air

The company says that it has taken the “white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches.”

Meeker said that the airlines caters everything to the dog, "trying to lower their anxiety and their stress, so they have the most comfortable, fear-free experience on an airplane."

Food and water are provided for the pooches, and there's "even a spa treatment that happens in air," Meeker said.

BARK Air says that a concierge will learn a dog's temperament and sensitivities before the flight for the best placement on the plane. Dogs will not be caged or on leashes but will be free to sit on the seat, their human, a bed or wherever comfortable, the company says.

There are designated areas before flights for dogs to go potty and emergency pads will be available during flights.

How many dogs can fit on a flight?

Each flight fits 15 dogs and their humans, according to BARK AIR's website, but it never sells more than 10 tickets per flight. Space while flying is important to how animals roam, the company says.

Though there are additional tickets available if more than one human needs to accompany a dog, kids are not allowed to fly BARK Air. Each passenger must be at least 18 years old.

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Air travel has gone to the dogs — literally. Here’s what to know about BARK Air

Rachel Treisman

BARK Air officially launched this week, completing its first flight from New York to Los Angeles on Thursday. It also flies to London and aims to add more routes in the coming months. Joe Gall/BARK hide caption

Flying with your dog in first class may sound like a far-fetched dream for many pet lovers. But a new boutique airline launching this week aims to make the “white paw experience” a reality.

BARK Air describes itself as “the world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second.”

“BARK Air has taken the white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches – from booking to arrival, to in-flight services and disembarkation, dogs will truly be the VIPs and treated to a positively luxurious, curated experience,” it said in an announcement last month .

Grounded: Emotional Support Animals No Longer Guaranteed Free Flights

BARK Air officially got off the ground on Wednesday afternoon, when its inaugural flight ferried six dogs of varying breeds — from Chihuahuas to a Golden Retriever — and 11 humans (both passengers and crew) from New York to Los Angeles.

The Very Important Pups were treated to chicken-flavored puppuccinos, special cupcakes and a shoe — on a platter — to snack on, according to BARK Chief of Staff Katharine Enos. She told NPR over email that there was “no drama on board.”

“Brooklyn (dachshund) and Eddy (golden) [were] friends and played and the little dogs took nice long naps most of the way,” she added. “After lunch it was nap time for everyone. No potty accidents on board or stolen food either! Everyone felt connected in the way we were obsessed with our dogs.”

Introducing BARK Air: A 100% totally real airline for dogs. We're dog people, and we are tired of there being no truly dog-friendly options when it comes to air travel. Now booking the best-in-class dog focused flight imaginable at https://t.co/eZqVYMC5W3 pic.twitter.com/bzcY2rSO4h — BARK (@bark) April 11, 2024

The airline is a subsidiary of BARK, the company behind dog-focused brands like the subscription service BarkBox. Co-founder and CEO Matt Meeker says he’s been working towards this idea for over a decade.

He was inspired by his late Great Dane Hugo, who traveled with him often but could never fit on a plane — like many non-lap dogs, Hugo would have had to fly in the cargo area rather than the cabin. (Meeker even flew from Florida to New York in a cargo crate to show how disorienting that experience can be, as part of Bark Air’s promotional campaign.)

Many airlines have tightened restrictions for emotional support animals on board in recent years. The logistics and cost of travel can be a highly emotional issue for many families who don’t want to leave their dogs behind when relocating, let alone vacationing, Meeker says.

“We don't think of ourselves as selling dog toys or seats on an airline,” Meeker told NPR in a phone interview. “We think of ourselves as selling awesome emotional experiences with your dog.”

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It’s also an expensive one: BARK Air flights between New York and LA cost $6,000 for one dog and one human (or one human and two dogs collectively under 50 pounds) in each direction, and one-way flights between New York and London go for $8,000.

Potential customers were quick to bemoan the cost, with one social media user joking that her pup would need to start selling “paw pics” to make it work.

Meeker acknowledged that “the price is high, and it’s too high.” But he said innovations, especially related to transportation, often become less expensive over time — and he hopes that will be the case with BARK Air, too.

“We have pretty clear ways of bringing those prices down if the demand is there, and that’s what we aim to do,” he added. “We want to make this affordable and accessible for as many dogs as possible.”

The airline aims to pamper passengers, both pups and people

The airline doesn't have dog size or breed restrictions but only allows humans over age 18 (or 126 in dog years). Joe Gall/BARK hide caption

On BARK Air, the drinks come in bowls, leashes replace seat belts, champagne is made of chicken broth and the bathroom is, well, anywhere.

“When they feel they need to go, they go,” Meeker said of the dog. “And then we clean up after them. And then we clean the plane between every turn.”

It’s one of the many unique perks — and logistical challenges — of an airline for dogs. BARK has partnered with a New York-based charter company called Talon Air, which provides the pilots, flight crew and plane, a Gulfstream V.

The jets accommodate 14 human passengers, but BARK is capping them at 10 to offer extra space. Meeker says it aims to make the experience as comfortable as possible for dogs, starting “even before the flight.”

BARK Air will do a “pup intake” to learn about the dogs’ temperament and preferences. On the day of the flight, humans are advised to show up an hour early to the terminal, where they’ll present their ID and walk straight onto the plane.

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“And so what we've bypassed there is a busy commercial airport and a very rigid TSA environment, and treating the dog as just another piece of luggage,” Meeker said.

Dogs and humans get served their meals — and stow away their toys — before the flight takes off to avoid potential territorial disputes. Once in the air, dogs are offered perks like a spa treatment and blankets covered with pheromones for extra comfort. Meeker says the in-flight crew is trained in dog CPR and “fear-free behavioral practices.”

The airline has no dog size or breed restrictions, but humans must be over 18 (aka 126 in dog years). Once on board, humans are advised to keep their dogs leashed as much as possible and ask before approaching others’.

Meeker, who traveled with his dog on two recent test flights between Florida and New York, says people hoped the dogs would misbehave for purposes of the experiment — but they did anything but, even during moments of “pretty significant turbulence.”

“They calmed everyone down, they floated around, they'd take someone’s seat,” he said. “A strange dog, like, not your dog, would wander up, sit on the couch next to you, put their head in your lap, and it’s like, ‘Oh, that’s great.’ ”

He added, “I don’t know why I’m surprised by this, but the dogs made it magical.”

Demand already appears to be taking off

BARK Air is partnering with charter company Talon Air to offer several flights per month. Some are already sold out for June and July. BARK hide caption

Meeker said the initial reaction to BARK Air’s launch has been “really overwhelming and positive.”

BARK Air is offering about four round-trip cross-country flights a month, with several already sold out for June and July. It’s already planning to expand its routes, starting with a New York to Paris trip beginning in the fall.

“About a third of people apparently buy their air travel six months in advance,” he said. “So we just published our schedule through the end of the year in order to serve that crowd better.”

The airline is soliciting requests for additional destinations, and Meeker said it received over 15,000 in the first week alone.

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They’ve heard from military families who are moving, people who travel for business and New Yorkers spending summers outside the city — all of whom want their dogs there too. Meeker also noted significant demand from snowbirds who want to go south with their dogs for the winter and many requests for flights in and out of Chicago.

“We're just processing that information and choosing the dates, and we're learning a lot,” he added.

He hopes the forthcoming data will allow the company to make more cost-effective decisions soon.

“We’re probably doing this the most expensive way we could, which is chartering a private plane from a private owner,” he explained.

The next step would be to make a longer commitment with the charter company, leasing the plane for a month or even a year to bring down costs. Even better would be buying and outfitting a plane. Meeker has his eye on a Boeing 747 model with a back half dedicated to cargo that could serve as an additional source of revenue.

He says this team already has a design that would feature private cabins with lay-flat beds, a central “dog park” and a bar, for dog and human socializing, respectively.

“That’s the dream,” he added. “But it’ll take a little bit of time to get there.”

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Bark air, airline for dogs, takes first flight departing from new york.

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Dogs can now em- bark on a new adventure.

BARK Air , the first airline catered to dogs, has officially taken off.

The airline’s first-ever flight departed from New York at 4 p.m. EST Thursday and touched down in Los Angeles.

According to BARK Air’s booking site , the inaugural flight was completely sold out.

One ticket cost $6,000, and each ticket includes one dog and one human companion. If two humans want to travel, two tickets will need to be purchased.

Bark, the pet company founded in 2011, announced the launch of the dog-centered plane experience in April as a way “to revolutionize flying for dogs.”

The company shared details of the first flight in an Instagram post , writing, “Right now, at an altitude of 30,000 feet, there is a flight filled with dogs. Unlike any flight before it, these dogs are not merely an afterthought, nor are they treated as cargo or a burden to the crew and fellow travelers. Here, dogs are the foremost priority.”

“Every single detail of this flight experience has been crafted with a ‘dogs-first’ mindset. It has taken 10 years, but we are finally confident that we can provide all dogs with the air travel experience they deserve: one that puts them first.”

One person commented how exciting it was to see the first flight happen, adding that “as a veterinarian,” she “would never” put her dog in cargo.

“This really is the pawfect flight!” another wrote. “Thank you for creating a happy place in the sky where dogs of all breeds and sizes can fly peacefully with their adult humans.”

As of now, BARK Air offers one-way and round-trip flights between New York via Westchester County Airport (HPN) and Los Angeles via Van Nuys (VNY), as well as New York and London via Biggin Hill (BQH).

The May 30 flight from New York to Los Angeles has just three seats left, and both May flights from Los Angeles to New York (May 24 and 31) are sold out.

Flying internationally costs $8,000 per ticket on BARK Air — and both flights to and from London this month are already sold out.

The airline operates Gulfstream G5s, and the website says they never book to their full capacity “to ensure you and your dog have enough room to spread out comfortably.”

Each flight fits 15 dogs plus their humans, but it never sells more than 10 tickets per flight. Children are not allowed to fly BARK Air and all human passengers must be at least 18 years old.

“When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans,” Matt Meeker, co-founder and CEO at BARK, said in an April press release .

“We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies.”

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