Jet Set Pets: Which Airlines Welcome Them Best? ✈️🦮

🐾 American Airlines

Fee: $125 one-way for in-cabin pets


Pets Allowed: Cats and small dogs


Carrier: Must fit under the seat (max 18" x 8" x 14")


Notes:

• Only one pet carrier allowed per passenger

• Pets count as your carry-on

• Larger dogs must travel as cargo with pre-booking and proper documentation

• Service animals allowed with restrictions (yes, miniature horses are on the list 🤪)

✅ Pro: Cargo option for big dogs


🔴 Con: No carry-on pet + carry-on bag combo allowed

🐾 Delta Air Lines

Fee: $95 one-way (varies internationally)


Pets Allowed: Cats, dogs, household birds (domestic flights)


Carrier: Soft-sided, leak-proof, fits under seat (max 18" x 11" x 11")


Notes:

• No pets on flights to Hawaii, Australia, or the UK

• Pet and kennel are your carry-on item

• Bookings are first-come, first-served—call ahead

• Check in at the Special Services Counter and allow extra time

✅ Pro: Cheapest fee among major airlines

🔴 Con: Strict no-pet policy on some international routes

🐾 United Airlines

Fee: $150 one-way (as of April 2024)


Pets Allowed: Cats and dogs only


Carrier: Must fit under seat. Soft-sided: 18" x 11" x 11" max

Notes:

• No more PetSafe program for non-cabin animals except for military/diplomatic

• You can bring 2 pets if you purchase 2 seats side by side

• Certain aircraft have space limits

• Emotional support animals must fly as regular pets

✅ Pro: Transparent booking and prep process


🔴 Con: $150 fee + no second-pet discount

🐾 Alaska Airlines

Fee: $100 one-way


Pets Allowed: Cats, dogs, rabbits, household birds


Carrier: Must fit under seat. Up to 2 pets in 1 carrier allowed (if compatible and small)

Notes:

• Climate-controlled cargo available for larger animals

• PetConnect cargo program exists

• Additional rules apply for Hawaii and international

✅ Pro: Best overall value, dual pet option


🔴 Con: Limited international routes

🐾 JetBlue

Fee: $125 one-way


Pets Allowed: Small cats and dogs only


Carrier: Must fit under seat (max 17" x 12.5" x 8.5"). Only 1 pet per carrier.


Notes:

• JetPaws program includes carrier tag and travel points

• Max 6 pets per flight

• Must remain in carrier at all times

• Can book online

• No pets in Mint or international interline flights

✅ Pro: Perks via JetPaws, good for small pets


🔴 Con: Carrier counts as personal item

🐾 Southwest Airlines

Fee: $125 one-way (paid at airport only)


Pets Allowed: Vaccinated domestic cats and dogs

Carrier: One carrier per passenger (can contain 2 pets of same species)


Notes:

• No international travel or Hawaii

• Reservation must be made by phone

• Carrier must remain under seat for entire flight

✅ Pro: Affordable and friendly

🔴 Con: No international travel at all

Pet Policy Snapshot

Flying with a pet isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but with the right airline and a little prep, it can be a whole lot less stressful. From cargo options for big pups to carry-on perks for tiny companions, there’s something for every traveler-pet duo. Just remember: check the fine print, book early, and don’t forget the treats. 🐈