What is the best airline to fly with pets?
Well, of course it is a matter of opinion, but there are several airlines that are known for their pet-friendly policies and services. Check this out: a pet carrier that is FAA approved to carry on board your next flight. (as an amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases – thanks for supporting my small business). While the “best” airline for you may vary depending on your wants and expectations, here are a few airlines that do allow pets and are considered pet friendly:
- Southwest Airlines: Southwest is frequently mentioned as one of the most pet-friendly airlines. They welcome small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs in an appropriate pet carrier in the cabin on domestic flights. Carriers must be stowed under your seat. For Customers traveling to Puerto Rico, specific requirements may apply. Southwest does not accept pets on flights to or from Hawaii. As per Southwest website, the Pet Fare is $95 each way per pet carrier. For more information and specific guidelines, visit Southwest.com
- JetBlue Airways: Only small dogs and cats may travel in the cabin (except in Mint) in an FAA-approved pet carrier that fits comfortably under the seat in front of you. You can book your pet online at jetblue.com or the free JetBlue app. The pet fee is $125 (one hundred and twenty five US dollars) each way and can be added in the Extras section on JetBlue.com during booking. A maximum of two pets per traveler is allowed, each in their own carrier. In order to bring a second pet, a second seat and pet fee must be paid. A total of six pets are allowed on each flight, so it’s best to book early. For more information on restrictions, visit JetBlue.
- Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines has a pet-friendly policy and allows dogs, cats, and household birds to travel in the cabin. Alaska Airlines provides Fur-st Class Care™ for furry friends—because they understand that they’re not just a pet, they’re family. Alaska Airlines pet travel program offers options for transporting your pet safely with top-notch care from just $100. For more information please visit Alaska Airlines.
- American Airlines: American Airlines permits small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin for most domestic flights. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements. 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). They don’t accept cash or checks for payment. Fee for pets in a Carry-on kennel is $125. Please see American Airlines website for more information and restrictions.
- United Airlines: While there are no weight or breed limitations for pets, they must travel in either a hard-sided or soft-sided carrier. This carrier must fit under the seat in front of you or you cannot fly with your pet. There can only be one pet per carrier, and they must be able to stand up and turn around while inside. The only animals allowed on planes without a pet carrier are service animals. There is a $125 fee each way for traveling with your pet. There is also a $125 fee for each layover of more than four hours for flights within the U.S. and more than 24 hours internationally. You cannot use travel credits to pay this fee. Visit United Airlines for a full list of requirements and restrictions.
- Delta Airlines: Small dogs, cats and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee, collected at check-in. They must be able to fit in a small, ventilated pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Your pet must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic travel. Your pet must be 16 weeks old if traveling to the U.S. from another country and must be at least 15 weeks old when traveling to the European Union. The fee is $125 for domestic flights and $200 for International flights. See Delta.com for more information.
- Frontier Airlines: Pets are like family. That’s why Frontier is committed to keeping your dogs, cats, hamsters, and more safe and sound on their trip. If you would like to take your critter on your next trip, there are few things you need to know first. Domesticated dogs and cats must be minimum 8 weeks of age. Domesticated dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, or small household birds may be carried on flights within the United States. The following species are never accepted: Large birds (e.g. parrots, macaws, cockatoos, birds of prey), rodents (including mice, rats, squirrels), beavers, ferrets, reptiles (including snakes), amphibians, spiders, and insects (and please, no lions, tigers, or bears). The charge is $99 per pet per direction. For more information and requirements, visit Frontier Airlines.
So, what is the best airline to fly with pets in tow?
Depends. What is best for you depends completely on your specific needs and requirements. Remember your dog or cat may need to eat while traveling. Check out my gifts page to see this portable dog bowl and water bowl. This is a short list of airlines that DO accept pets. Before making a final decision, it’s important to review each airline’s specific pet policies, including size and weight restrictions, carrier requirements, fees, and any necessary documentation or health certificates. You and your pet can fly together. Just make sure to check routes, layovers, and carrier requirements before your book. Some airlines have a no refund policy. Happy traveling!
Until next time.
