Are you planning to travel with your furry friend and wondering which are the best pet-friendly airlines for your journey? Look no further. In this section, we will provide a pet-friendly airlines comparison and examine the top pet-friendly airlines, including their services, fees, and policies. It’s essential to choose the right airline that prioritizes your pet’s comfort and safety. Let’s explore your pet-friendly airline options together.
Understanding Pet-Friendly Airline Policies
Traveling with your furry companion can be a stressful affair, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding pet-friendly airline policies is the first step to a successful trip. Policies vary between airlines, so it’s important to research each one before booking your ticket.
The general requirements for in-cabin pet travel are as follows:
| Airline | Pet Type | Price | Weight Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Airlines | Dogs and Cats | $95 | 20 lbs. |
| American Airlines | Dogs and Cats | $125-200 (depending on flight length) | 20 lbs. |
| Delta Air Lines | Dogs and Cats | $125-200 (depending on flight length) | 20 lbs. |
| United Airlines | Dogs, Cats, and Rabbits | $125 | 18 lbs. |
Some airlines have additional requirements, such as needing a specific carrier or health certificate for your pet. It’s important to check the individual airline’s pet policies to ensure you meet all the requirements.
Consider accommodations for your pet’s comfort. Ask if the airline provides any special services, such as pet relief areas or temperature-controlled cargo holds. If you’re unsure about your pet’s ability to cope with flying, consult with your veterinarian before making your travel plans.
Remember, it’s your responsibility to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during the flight.
Now that you have a better understanding of pet-friendly airline policies, let’s explore the top pet-friendly airlines in detail.
Southwest Airlines: A Pet-Friendly Option
If you are looking for a pet-friendly airline, Southwest Airlines is an excellent option. They have a reputation for providing great services, fees, and restrictions for pet travelers.
First, Southwest Airlines welcomes small vaccinated cats and dogs onboard for a one-way fee of $95 per pet carrier. They prioritize pet safety by allowing one pet per passenger and limiting the number of pets per flight. Additionally, pets must stay in their carriers and under the owner’s seat throughout the journey to ensure optimal safety.
Southwest Airlines also offers a Pet Fare option that allows pet owners to fly with their furry friends in-cabin. This option is available on all domestic flights and only allows six pets per flight. The Pet Fare is currently priced at $95 per pet carrier each way.
Lastly, Southwest Airlines does not allow pets to travel alone and does not offer pet travel services for international flights.
Pet-Friendly Policies: Southwest Airlines
| Pet Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $95 one-way fee per pet carrier. Pet Fare is also priced at $95 per pet carrier one-way. |
| Restrictions | One pet per passenger and six pets per flight. |
| Travel | Pets must travel in an approved carrier under the owner’s seat. |
| Routes | Pet Fare is only applicable on domestic flights. Pets are not allowed on international flights. |
If you are looking for a pet-friendly airline for your next flight, Southwest Airlines’ policies make it a great choice.
American Airlines: Pet-Friendly Travel Options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet and are considering American Airlines, rest assured that they also welcome your furry friend onboard. American Airlines offers a variety of pet travel options, including carry-ons, checked baggage, and cargo services so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Let’s take a closer look at American Airlines’ pet travel policies:
| Pet Type | Allowed | Travel Options | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs and Cats | Yes | Carry-on, Checked, Cargo | Carry-on: $125 each way Checked: $200 each way Cargo: Varies by destination and weight |
It’s essential to note that American Airlines has specific requirements for pet travel, such as proper documentation and a suitable carrier or crate. Make sure to check their website for the full details and restrictions before booking your flight.
American Airlines aims to provide a comfortable and safe experience for both you and your pet while traveling. They also offer additional services, such as Priority Parcel Service for pets in cargo, to ensure timely and reliable pet transport.
If you plan to travel with your pet frequently, you can earn points through their AAdvantage program by purchasing their pet travel services and other eligible products and services. It’s a great way to save on future travels.
Choose American Airlines for a stress-free travel experience with your furry companion.
Delta Air Lines: Taking Your Pets to New Heights
Delta Air Lines recognizes the importance of pets in your life and offers comprehensive pet travel options for your furry companions. Delta’s pet travel program allows for cats, dogs, and household birds to travel both domestically and internationally.
Delta Air Lines offers a range of options to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during your journey. Delta Pet First is a unique service that offers priority handling for your pet, ensuring that it is one of the first to be loaded and unloaded from the plane for extra, valuable peace of mind.
Delta Air Lines’ pet travel fees vary based on the weight of your pet and the flight route. Each passenger can bring a maximum of two pets in the cabin, with the exception of Delta One, where only one pet is allowed.
Delta Air Lines Pet Fees
| Pet Type | Fee (One Way) |
|---|---|
| Dogs and Cats | $125 USD |
| Birds (Pets Only) | $125 USD |
| Birds (Service Animals) | No Charge |
Delta Air Lines requires all pets to have a health certificate along with proof of vaccination. The health certificate must be issued within ten days of travel and should be presented at the check-in counter. Additionally, pets must be kept in an approved carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you.
If you’re traveling internationally, Delta Air Lines provides specialized pet travel services, including assistance with import and export documentation and quarantine procedures.
“Delta Air Lines’ commitment to pet-friendly policies ensures a smooth travel experience for both you and your furry friend.”
Delta Air Lines’ pet travel program is a standout option for pet owners looking to fly with their pooch or kitty. With its comprehensive services and commitment to safety and comfort, Delta Air Lines is an excellent option for pet-friendly air travel.
United Airlines: Flying with Your Furry Friends
If you’re looking for pet-friendly airline options, United Airlines is a great choice. United Airlines allows small dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds to fly in the cabin with their owners on most flights within the U.S. and between the U.S. and Canada. Larger pets can travel in the cargo area.
United Airlines provides a range of pet-related services and amenities for a comfortable and safe journey for both you and your pet. These include:
| Service/Amenity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pet travel in the cabin | $125 each way |
| Pet travel in the cargo area | Varies by destination and weight of pet |
| Pet relief areas | Complimentary |
| Pet-friendly hotels | Varies by hotel |
Note that United Airlines also has specific requirements for pet travel, such as proper carrier types, size, and weight restrictions, and health documents. It’s important to review these policies before booking your flight.
Choose United Airlines for a pet-friendly travel experience with your furry companion by your side.
Frontier Airlines: Pet Travel Made Easy
If you are planning a flight with your furry friend, you might want to consider Frontier Airlines, one of the best pet-friendly airlines in the United States. Frontier Airlines offers a variety of pet travel services to ensure that you and your pet have a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Their pet policies, fees, and requirements are outlined below to help you prepare for your travels.
Frontier Airlines Pet Policy
Frontier Airlines allows small pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and ferrets to travel in the cabin. The pet must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 18″ length x 14″ width x 8″ height and must have proper ventilation. Only one pet is allowed per carrier.
For larger pets that cannot travel in the cabin, Frontier Airlines also offers an affordable option for transporting your pet as checked baggage. The pet must be in an airline-approved carrier with proper ventilation and labeling and must meet specific weight and size requirements. Frontier Airlines does not allow pets to travel as cargo.
Frontier Airlines Pet Fees
The fees for traveling with a pet on Frontier Airlines vary depending on the type of travel, destination, and the weight of the pet. The fees for in-cabin pets are $99 each way, while the fees for pets traveling as checked baggage are $150 each way. It is important to note that these fees are nonrefundable.
Additional Requirements
Prior to traveling with your pet on Frontier Airlines, you must contact the airline to reserve space for your pet on the flight. You must also provide a health certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel for both in-cabin and checked baggage pets. Additionally, you must have all the necessary documentation required by your final destination, including quarantine restrictions and vaccination records.
Remember to book your flight in advance and prepare your pet for travel to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. With Frontier Airlines’ pet-friendly policies and services, you can rest assured that both you and your furry friend will travel in comfort and style.
JetBlue Airways: Jet-Setting with Your Pets
If you’re looking for a pet-friendly airline, JetBlue Airways should be at the top of your list. They prioritize the comfort and safety of your furry companions, making travel stress-free for both you and your pet.
JetBlue has several policies in place to ensure that your pet has a seamless journey. They accept cats and dogs for travel and even allow emotional support animals, so long as they meet the required size and weight criteria. Your pet will travel in the cabin with you, so you won’t have to worry about them being stowed away in the cargo hold.
When flying with JetBlue, there’s a non-refundable pet fee of $125 each way, which is relatively cheaper than most other pet-friendly airlines. Only one pet is allowed per customer, so make sure to book ahead of time to secure your pet’s spot. JetBlue also offers a pet travel kit, which includes a bag of treats, a leash, and a collapsible water bowl, so your pets can stay comfortable throughout their flight.
JetBlue Airways Pet Policy
| Policy | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pet Types Allowed | Dogs and cats |
| Pet Size and Weight | Combined weight of pet and carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds |
| Cost | $125 each way |
| Pet Travel Kit | Included |
Overall, JetBlue Airways is a fantastic option for pet owners looking for a budget-friendly, pet-friendly airline. Their policies and fees are straightforward, so you won’t have to worry about any hidden surprises.
Alaska Airlines: A Friendly Environment for Pets
If you want to travel with your furry friend, Alaska Airlines is a pet-friendly airline option worth considering. Their pet travel policy demonstrates their commitment to providing a comfortable journey for both you and your pet.
For starters, Alaska Airlines allows both cats and dogs, as well as household birds and rabbits, to travel in the cabin with their owners as long as they meet specific requirements. The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 150 pounds, and the carrier must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Alaska Airlines also lets guests bring up to two pets in one carrier for a single fee.
If your pet does not meet the cabin pet requirements, Alaska Airlines provides pet travel in cargo through their PetConnect program. They prioritize pet safety and comfort by providing a climate-controlled environment and expert handling from trained and caring staff. Alaska Airlines also offers a 24/7 hotline for updates on your pet’s travels.
When traveling with Alaska Airlines, keep in mind their pet fees. For cabin pets, Alaska Airlines charges $100 per pet, per way. For cargo pets, fees range from $100-$200 per pet, per way, with fees increasing for international travel.
Overall, Alaska Airlines sets a high standard for pet-friendly airline options. Their commitment to pet safety and comfort, combined with their reasonable fees and efficient PetConnect program, make them a top choice for pet-friendly air travel.
Conclusion
Now that you have evaluated the pet-friendly airline options, it is essential to choose the right airline for your furry friend. Whether you’re planning a cross-country trip or a quick getaway, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Alaska Airlines offer excellent services and policies for traveling with your pet.
Before booking your flight, consider the specific requirements, fees, and restrictions of each airline. Some airlines may require a health certificate or specific pet carrier dimensions, so make sure you’re well-informed before making a reservation. Remember, choosing the right pet-friendly airline will ensure a stress-free trip for both you and your furry friend.
