American Airlines Pet Policy: Your Guide to Flying with Furry Friends

American Airlines lets passengers bring up to two service dogs on board for free under the American Airlines pet policy.

Are you planning to fly with American Airlines and wondering if your furry friend can join you in the cabin? As a pet parent, leaving them behind is not an option, right?

The good news is that American Airlines offers several options for traveling with pets, including in the cabin, as checked baggage, or via cargo. In this guide, we'll cover the key details, including size, breed, and other essential requirements, to ensure your pet can easily accompany you on your journey.

What is the American Airlines pet policy?

American Airlines allows the pets to travel in the cabin, as checked baggage, or through cargo. To travel in the cabin, pets must fit in an approved carrier under the seat.

Here's what you need to know about the American Airlines pet policy:

• You can bring small carry-on pets, such as cats and dogs, that meet standard size, age, and destination requirements.

• An American Airlines cargo travel option for pets that don't meet the carry-on requirements.

• Fully-trained American Airlines service dog requirements includes fly free in the cabin if they meet requirements under the American Airlines dog policy.

• Dogs from screwworm-affected countries must meet entry requirements set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's APHIS.

• Ensure your pet complies with all APHIS guidelines before traveling to the U.S.

• Checked pets are permitted for active-duty U.S. military and State Department Foreign Service personnel on official orders.

• Limit Up to 2 pets per traveler, meeting destination age and health requirements.

• First-come, first-served basis due to limited capacity.

Learn More: American Airlines Check in Policy Guide for 2024!

How are my pets transported on American Airlines?

Traveling with your furry friend? Here's how American Airlines pet carrier guidelines ensures a safe and comfy journey under the America Airlines pet policy:

1. Eligibility Check: Verify your pet meets age, breed, and travel route requirements, and confirm temperatures are within safe limits.
2. Kennel Preparation: Use a sturdy travel kennel that complies with airline size and construction standards.

• Length: C + ½B
• Width: D
• Height: Based on your pet's size

1. Booking: Reserve a spot for your pet 24 hours to 10 days before travel (30 days for arrivals at London Heathrow) under the American pet policy.
2. Drop-Off: Bring necessary documents, ensure your pet is well-fed and hydrated, and deliver them to the designated drop-off location.

• Confirm the drop-off location and hours.
• Reconfirm that temperatures are safe for travel.
• Offer a light meal and water within 4 hours before drop-off.
• Attach a bag of food on top or inside the kennel.
• Bring two forms of ID and the required health certificates.
• Sedated pets are not accepted.

1. Tracking: Stay updated through email notifications or online tracking using your air waybill number.
2. Pick-Up: Retrieve your pet about an hour after the flight lands, factoring in customs clearance for international trips.

FlyO Tip: Always review destination-specific pet travel restrictions and ensure compliance with all guidelines before booking your tickets.

How strict are American Airlines with carry-on pets?

American Airlines enforces strict guidelines for carry-on pets to ensure safety and comfort. Pets must fit in an approved carrier that meets specific size and weight limits. Only small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin. Be sure your American Airlines pet carrier size requirements fits under the seat in front of you, and always check the latest policy before flying with a dog on American Airlines under the American Airlines pet policy.

Let's take a look at the pet travel requirements:

What size pet carrier is allowed on American Airlines?

The following American Airlines pet carrier dimensions for in-cabin travel includes:

1. Soft-sided carriers: Up to 18" L x 11" W x 11" H, suitable for all flights.
2. Hard-sided carriers:

• Marine Flights: 19" L x 13" W x 9" H.
• Regional Flights: 16" L x 12" W x 8" H.

The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you under the American Airlines pet policy.

Read More: American Airlines AAdvantage Program: Tips and Insights!

Is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo?

Yes, American Airlines dog carrier size prioritizes pet safety during cargo travel through its PetEmbark program. Pets are transported in climate-controlled, ventilated areas. However, ensure your pet’s breed and size meet the airline’s specific guidelines for safe travel.

Does American Airlines take pets in cargo?

Yes, American Airlines transports pets in cargo through its PetEmbark program for breeds and sizes that don't meet cabin requirements. Restrictions apply based on temperature and destination.

How much does American Airlines charge for pets?

American Airlines carry on pet fee charges different fees based on your pet's travel method and destination. Here's a clear breakdown:

• Carry-on pets: $150 per kennel for travel within the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
• Checked pets (Active-duty Military & State Department personnel): $200 per kennel for most destinations, $150 for travel to/from Brazil.
• Cargo pets: Fees vary and are confirmed at the time of booking.
• Service animals: No charge for all destinations.

Payments can be quickly made with a credit card or paper voucher at the airport. Cash and checks are not accepted.

FlyO Tip: American Airlines Pet fees apply per kennel each way. Fees apply per segment for stopovers or connections over 4 hours. All fees are non-refundable. Cargo fees vary based on trip details and pet size.

Can emotional support Pets fly American?

American Airlines no longer allows emotional support animals to fly in the cabin under the American Airline pet policy. However, the American Airlines emotional support dogs can be transported as pets in the cabin or cargo, subject to regular pet fees and requirements.

Read More: How Does American Airlines Upgrade Seats?

What documents are required to add pets on American Airlines?

You must fill the American Airlines pet travel forms to travel with a service animal. Complete the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form to verify your animal's health, training, and behavior. Under the American pet policy, additional documentation may be required based on destination or pet type.

How do I add a pet to my American flight?

To add a pet to your American Airlines flight, submit your request at least 48 hours before travel. Allow 2-4 extra hours for check-in. You can book your pet's travel under the American Airlines pet policy:

• Online: Visit the American Airlines website, select your trip, and choose the "Add your pet" option.
• Phone: Call our FlyOfinder reservations at +1-571-378-7016 to add your pet over the phone.

Learn More: A Guide to American Airlines Business Class!

Can I take a cat on an American Airlines flight?

Yes, you can bring your cats to American Airlines. Cats are allowed in the cabin if they meet size and carrier requirements or can be transported as cargo under the American Airlines cat policy.

Can you bring your dog on a flight with American Airlines?

Yes, you can bring your dog on board American Airlines if they meet the size requirements. Dogs can travel in the cabin or as checked pets depending on their size and route under the American Airlines pet policy.

Which destinations are allowed to travel with pets?

You can easily travel with your pet on most flights up to 12 hours, including:

• Within the 48 contiguous United States
• U.S. and Canada
• Alaska
• Mexico
• Puerto Rico
• St. Croix
• St. Thomas

Important Note: Special restrictions may apply for specific destinations.

Conclusion

Flying with your pet under the American Airlines pet policy can be an effortless adventure when you're prepared. Whether your furry companion is joining you in the cabin area, as checked baggage, or in the cargo, understanding the rules ensures their safety and comfort. From selecting the right carrier to navigating pet fees and destination-specific guidelines, staying informed means a stress-free trip for you both. Proper preparation makes your pet's journey as enjoyable as yours. Ready to take off with your four-legged friend?

Need assistance with your pet's travel arrangements? Contact FlyOfinder at +1-571-378-7016 today and ensure a smooth journey for you and your pet!

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