Do Dogs Fly Free On American Airlines?

admin
Chief Editor of - Book USA Airlines

If you’re planning a trip with your furry friend, you may be wondering if they can fly with you on American Airlines. Specifically, you may be wondering if dogs fly free on American Airlines. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t straightforward, but we’ll break it down for you in this article.

While American Airlines does allow dogs to fly with their owners, there are rules and regulations that you’ll need to follow. Understanding these guidelines can help you ensure that your furry friend has a comfortable and safe journey. So, let’s explore whether or not dogs fly free on American Airlines and what you need to know before booking your next flight.

Do Dogs Fly Free on American Airlines?

Do Dogs Fly Free on American Airlines?

If you’re planning a trip with your furry friend on American Airlines, you might be wondering if dogs fly for free. The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on the size of your dog and the type of ticket you purchase. In this article, we’ll explore the guidelines and fees for flying with dogs on American Airlines.

Traveling with Small Dogs

If your dog is small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, you can bring them onboard for a fee. American Airlines charges $125 each way for a pet in the cabin, and you’ll need to make a reservation in advance as there are limits to the number of pets allowed on each flight. You’ll also need to provide a carrier for your dog that meets the airline’s guidelines, such as being leak-proof and well-ventilated.

It’s important to note that some breeds are not allowed in the cabin, such as snub-nosed dogs that are prone to breathing problems. Additionally, if your flight includes a stopover of more than four hours, your pet will not be allowed in the cabin.

Traveling with Large Dogs

If your dog is too large to fit under the seat, they will need to travel in the cargo hold. American Airlines allows pets to travel as cargo, but there are additional restrictions and fees. You’ll need to make a reservation in advance, and your dog will need to be in an airline-approved crate. The cost for this service varies depending on the size of your dog and the distance of the flight.

Read More:  Can I Transfer Jetblue Points To American Airlines?

It’s important to note that not all airports and flights are equipped to handle pets as cargo, so you’ll need to do your research and plan accordingly. Additionally, the cargo hold can be stressful and potentially dangerous for pets, so you’ll want to consider this carefully before deciding to travel with a large dog.

Benefits of Flying with Your Dog

Traveling with your dog can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. It allows you to spend more time together and can reduce the stress and anxiety of leaving your pet behind. Additionally, many airlines, including American Airlines, offer perks such as priority boarding and dedicated check-in lines for passengers traveling with pets.

Drawbacks of Flying with Your Dog

While there are benefits to traveling with your dog, there are also drawbacks to consider. In addition to the fees and restrictions, flying can be stressful for pets, especially if they are not used to being in a carrier or traveling. Additionally, there is always a risk of injury or loss during air travel, and you’ll want to make sure you have proper identification and insurance for your pet.

Traveling with Your Dog on American Airlines vs. Other Airlines

American Airlines is not the only airline that allows pets to travel, but the fees and restrictions can vary widely between carriers. Some airlines, such as Southwest, allow small pets to travel in the cabin for a lower fee, while others, such as Delta, have stricter rules for traveling with pets in the cargo hold. It’s important to research the policies and fees of each airline before booking your trip to ensure you make the best choice for you and your pet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling with your dog on American Airlines is possible, but it comes with additional fees and restrictions. Small dogs can travel in the cabin for a fee, while larger dogs will need to travel as cargo. Before booking your trip, it’s important to research the policies and fees of each airline to ensure you make the best choice for you and your furry friend. Remember to consider the potential drawbacks and benefits of flying with your pet before making your final decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Airlines’ pet policy?

American Airlines has a pet policy that allows certain small pets to travel in the cabin with their owners for a fee. Larger pets can be transported in the cargo hold. However, there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed on each flight and certain breeds are not allowed to travel in the cargo hold.

Pets traveling in the cabin must remain in their carrier under the seat in front of their owner. The carrier must fit under the seat and meet certain size restrictions.

What is the fee for pets traveling on American Airlines?

The fee for pets traveling in the cabin with their owner on American Airlines is $125 per carrier, each way. Only one carrier per passenger is allowed and the pet and carrier count as the passenger’s carry-on item.

For pets traveling in the cargo hold, the fee varies depending on the size and weight of the pet and carrier. The fee can range from $200 to $750 each way.

Do emotional support animals fly free on American Airlines?

No, emotional support animals are not allowed to fly for free on American Airlines. However, they are allowed to travel with their owner in the cabin for no additional fee. The owner must provide proper documentation and give advance notice to the airline.

What are the restrictions on transporting pets on American Airlines?

American Airlines has certain restrictions on transporting pets. Certain breeds of dogs and cats are not allowed to travel in the cargo hold due to respiratory issues. Also, pets are not allowed to travel in the cargo hold if the temperature is below 45°F (7°C) or above 85°F (29°C) at any location on the itinerary.

Additionally, there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed on each flight. Only a certain number of pets are allowed in the cabin and cargo hold on each flight.

Read More:  Does American Airlines Allow Dogs?

What is the process for transporting a pet on American Airlines?

The process for transporting a pet on American Airlines involves making a reservation for the pet and paying the appropriate fee. The owner must provide a carrier that meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions.

For pets traveling in the cabin, the owner must check in at the airport ticket counter and notify the airline that they have a pet. The pet and carrier will be inspected by an airline representative.

For pets traveling in the cargo hold, the owner must drop off the pet and carrier at the designated cargo facility at least 2 hours before the flight. The pet and carrier will be inspected and loaded onto the plane by airline staff.

How To Travel With A Dog On American Airlines


In conclusion, while American Airlines does allow dogs to fly with their owners, they do not fly for free. The fees associated with flying with a dog can vary depending on the size of the dog and the flight route. It is important to check with American Airlines directly before booking a flight to ensure that you are aware of the fees and requirements for traveling with your furry friend.

Despite the fees, many dog owners find that flying with their pets is worth the cost and hassle. Being able to bring your dog with you on a trip can add an extra layer of joy and comfort to your travels. And with American Airlines’ pet-friendly policies, you can rest assured that your dog will be well taken care of during your flight.

Overall, if you are planning to travel with your dog and are considering American Airlines as your carrier, it is important to do your research ahead of time. By understanding the fees and requirements associated with traveling with a dog, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your furry companion.

About The Author

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top