Tips for a Smooth Flight When Traveling with Your Pet

Taking your pet on a flight involves more than just packing an extra bag. Traveling with your furry friend can be stressful, as they are precious cargo. To ensure a hassle-free journey, it's essential to plan ahead and anticipate any possible challenges. If you prepare well, both you and your pet can relax during the trip.

Understanding Pet Policies of Major Airlines

Pets are becoming common travelers on airlines—dogs are welcome aboard too! However, each airline has its own set of requirements. Read on to find out more.

Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines allows pets to travel in the cabin. It's important to book your spot early, as pet spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The maximum number of pets allowed per flight is two in first class, two in business class, and four in the main cabin.

United Airlines

United Airlines permits pets to fly with their owners in the cabin. They limit cabin travel to two dogs, so it's advisable to secure a reservation for your dog as soon as your travel plans are confirmed. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance and no later than five days before departure for travelers with pets or pets traveling alone.

American Airlines

American Airlines allows your dog to travel in the cabin. A maximum of seven dogs are permitted on American Airlines flights and five on American Eagle flights. To secure a spot for your dog, it's best to contact the airline as soon as your travel plans are confirmed.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines permits small dogs to travel in their cabins only. Each flight allows up to six pets, and spots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure a reservation for your dog, make your pet bookings as soon as you finalize your travel plans. Note that Southwest Airlines does not allow dogs traveling alone or with unaccompanied minors.

JetBlue

JetBlue accepts small pets in their cabins on select flights. Each flight is limited to four pets, so it's essential to reserve your spot as soon as possible. Travelers are restricted to one pet, although exceptions may be considered in some instances.

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines permits small pets to travel either in the cabin or in the hold, while larger pets must fly as cargo. Both cats and dogs are welcome on Hawaiian Airlines flights. There is a cap on the number of pets allowed per flight, so it's important to reserve your spot in advance. Additionally, the airline may restrict pet transport in the cargo hold during extreme weather conditions.

Things to Consider Before Flying with Your Pet in the Cabin

Imagine flying from your pet's viewpoint—the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells can be quite frightening. Even worse, they will be confined in a crate under the seat in front of you without a view. However, following these tips can make their journey more comfortable.

Schedule a Vet Visit

It's advisable to consult your veterinarian about your pet's health prior to flying. Address any concerns related to air travel, and if your vet approves, make sure to book a spot for your pet.

Book Early

As previously mentioned, most airlines have a cap on the number of pets allowed in the cabin. To ensure your pet can fly with you, it's crucial to make your reservation well in advance.

Choose Nonstop Flights

Whenever possible, opt for a direct flight and consider traveling during weekdays when airports tend to be less crowded. This minimizes travel time, allowing your pet to exit their crate sooner upon arrival.

Choose a Pet Carrier

Most airlines require pets to be transported in carriers when flying in the cabin. Make sure to review the airline's carrier size guidelines to ensure it fits under the seat and allows your cat or dog enough room to move comfortably.

Prepare Your Pet for the Crate

Traveling can be stressful for your furry friend, especially if they view their crate as a frightening place. Start crate training your pet well in advance, so they learn to see it as a safe and secure environment.

Airport Travel Tips for Pets

Prepare the Carrier and Help Them Relax

If your carrier isn’t already lined, add an absorbent pad at the bottom. Bring along food and water for your pet, plus extra supplies in case of delays. Engage with your pet and give them plenty of attention before heading to the airport to help ease their nerves during travel.

Arrive Early and Have a Strategy

It's advisable to arrive at least two hours before your flight. This allows your pet to settle in and adapt to the new surroundings. Additionally, have a plan for any delays: where can you take your dog for walks? Where are the pet relief areas? It’s best to sort these details out before your flight.

Don't forget to check in with the airline

Even if you've checked in online, you must still visit the airline counter when traveling with a pet. While your airline should already be aware of your pet from your reservation, it’s wise to confirm this and gather important details like the locations of pet relief areas and your gate number.

Get acquainted with the pet policies at airports

The FAA mandates that your pet remains in its carrier while you navigate through the airport. There are two exceptions to this rule: when you walk through the metal detector and when you visit the pet relief areas. Otherwise, your pet must stay inside their carrier.

Consider your arrival plans

Have a plan ready for your arrival at the destination airport. Research the locations of pet relief areas in advance and arrange for pet-friendly transportation from the airport.