delta airlines travel with pet

Pet Policies   

General information, pets in cabin (petc) embargo.

Pets in Cabin (PETC)

Pets in Hold (AVIH) Embargo

Pets in Hold (AVIH)/U.S Military Personnel / Foreign Service Officers

CDC Suspension for Dogs Entering the U.S. From High-Risk Countries 

Documentation requirements.

Ship Your Pet With Delta Cargo

Destination Restrictions

Kennel requirements, seasonal embargoes, animal breed restrictions.

Live Bird Restrictions

Aircraft Restrictions

Delta Connections & Pet Travel

Partner Airlines & Pet Travel

Service and support animals.

At Delta, we take the time and care to ensure every animal travels safely and comfortably. There are several different options available to get a pet to its final destination, including being brought into the cabin , checked as baggage , or shipped as cargo  traveling without their owner. Rest assured no matter how they are traveling, pets will have a safe and comfortable trip.  Please note:  Some states may require a health certificate for a pet. A veterinarian, the U.S. Department of Agriculture  or the Department of Agriculture for the customer’s destination state, may be able to provide more information

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Delta has implemented an embargo for Pets in Cabin (PETC) on flights originating in Brazil and Colombia, effective for tickets purchased on/after June 7, 2021, for travel on/after June 7, 2021.

Travel Originating From: 

Bogotá, Colombia (BOG)

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil (GIG) – When operational

Sao Paulo, Brazil (GRU)

Conditions That Apply to This Embargo: 

• PETC Travel Originating in Brazil or Colombia:

o    For tickets purchased on/after June 7, Delta will not allow PETC travel that originates in Brazil or Colombia.

o    Delta will honor travel with PETC originating in Brazil/Colombia, for tickets purchased prior to June 7, 2021.

• Customers with PETC travel originating in the U.S. going to Brazil/Colombia may return to the U.S. with their pet.
• Additional Information:

o    Tickets that are reissued on/after June 7, 2021 will fall under the original ticket date and rules.

o    Does not apply to trained service animals (SVAN).

o    Applies to Emotional Support Animals; however, Emotional Support Animals (ESAN) confirmed and approved prior to Jan. 11, 2021, will be allowed.

Pets in Cabin (PETC)

Delta Allows dogs, cats and household birds* to travel in the cabin of an aircraft to/from certain destinations for a one-way fee, collected at check in.

*Household birds are only permitted to travel on domestic U.S. flights.

The following restrictions apply to pets traveling as carry-on baggage:

• Only one (1) kennel per customer may be carried on the aircraft.
• There are no military exception for pets in cabin.
• Bulkhead seats
• An emergency exit row
• Seats designated as "no stowage"
• Flat-bed seats
• Rows 30-35 on the A330-200 aircraft
• Rows 30-43 on the A330-300 aircraft
• Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft
• Delta One® seats
• A pet must be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel without touching or protruding from the sides of the kennel and with the ability to move around.
• The kennel must fit under the seat directly in front of the customer.
• Maximum carry-on kennel dimensions are determined by the aircraft type. Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11 ” that fit most aircraft types. Contact Global Sales Support or Delta Reservations  to determine the appropriate kennel size.
• A pet must remain inside the kennel (with door secured) while in a Delta boarding area (during boarding and deplaning), a Delta airport lounge and while onboard the aircraft.
• A pet must be at least 10 weeks old for Domestic travel.
• A pet must be 16 weeks old if traveling to the U.S. from other countries and must be at least 15 weeks old for European Union travel.
• A pet counts as one piece of carry-on baggage. Pet in Cabin fees still apply.
• One female cat/dog may travel with her un-weaned litter if the litter is a minimum of 10 weeks old to 6 months of age.
• There is no limit on the number of animals in the litter.
• Two (2) pets of the same breed and size between the age of 10 weeks and 6 months may be allowed to travel in one (1) kennel, providing they are small enough to fit into one kennel and are compatible. They will be charged as one (1) pet.

Please Note : Delta does not accept pets in the cabin to/from the following locations: 

• Hawaii (See Pets to Hawaii  for additional details)
• Hong Kong (Special permit/import permit or quarantine permit is required for all animals and birds (including dogs & cats) applied before arrival in Hong Kong and they must be shipped as cargo covered by an air bill.)
• Jamaica  
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

Pets are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Delta and its partners limit the number of total pets in cabin per flight. Call Global Sales Support or Delta Reservations  in advance to arrange for a customer to bring a pet on board. 

Pet in Hold (AVIH) Embargo

Delta Cargo has implemented an embargo on all pet in hold (AVIH) bookings for travel on or after April 1, 2020:

• Currently there is no end date to the embargo.  Cargo will continually revisit the restrictions throughout the upcoming days and weeks as there are changes to our network
• The embargo is for pets (AVIH) only and applies to all shipments and all stations globally
• Delta will still accept service (SVAN) and emotional support animals (ESAN) that cannot be accommodated in cabin
• This embargo applies to all shipments; existing bookings will not be honored . Customers will be contacted if their booking on/after April 1 had been previously confirmed

Delta will transport pets in hold(AVIH)  only in the following situations :

• On day of departure, must have ability to produce government-issued active U.S. military ID or active U.S. foreign service personnel ID/official passport
• On day of departure, must have ability to produce change of assignment orders from military; or change of assignment orders from/to U.S. embassy, consulate, or mission
• Only on flights less than 12 hours in duration . (No exceptions for Military on the 12 hour policy)  

Note : Change of gauge flights are considered two separate flights when calculating the 12 hour maximum flight time. 

Pets in Hold (AVIH)   

Pets in Hold (AVIH) is a service offered by Delta to active U.S. military or active U.S. State Department Foreign Service Officers (FSO) and spouses (see requirements below),as well as any trained service or support animal unable to travel in the cabin. All animals not meeting these exceptions may not travel as checked baggage and must travel as freight through Delta Cargo .

U.S Military Personnel / Foreign Service Officers

Delta only accepts animals as checked baggage for active U.S Military or Active U.S State Department Foreign Service Officers (FSO) & their Spouse with active transfer orders for a fee. Pets must comply with federal regulations, including proper documentation based on current policies and procedures. Military Personnel and Foreign Service Officers who meet the outlined exceptions must book pets as checked baggage at least 48 hours before departure.

The following animals are accepted as checked baggage and a customer may transport two kennels per flight. (Giant-sized kennels may only be shipped as cargo; additional restrictions apply according to aircraft and class of service):

• cats (except snub-nosed cats; see list of relevant breeds )
• dogs (except pug or snub-nosed dogs; see list of relevant breeds )
• household birds (domestic U.S. only)
• guinea pigs (domestic U.S. only)
• rabbits (domestic U.S. only)
• hamsters (domestic U.S. only)
• marmots (domestic U.S. only)

All other animals, including reptiles and primates (including lemurs, monkeys, orangutans, gorillas and chimpanzees), must be shipped as cargo.

• Animal fees are charged each time the pet is checked in at the airport. Fees will be assessed at each stopover point.
• Exceptions may apply to routings that require connections greater than 6 hours.
• Animals are not included in the free baggage allowance or for Delta American Express card (AMEX) free baggage allowance.
• No excess size or weight fees apply.

Please note:  Delta and Delta Cargo do not accept warm blooded animals on flights with an average flight time of greater than 12 hours.

Within the U.S. or Between the U.S. /Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico: $200 USD

Between the U.S. and Canada/Caribbean/other International Destinations: $200/USD/CAD/EUR*

Between the U.S. and Brazil: $150 USD

*CAD amount will be charged exit Canada, and EUR amount will be charged exit Europe. Fees established by the contract of carriage in effect at the time of ticket issuance will apply.

Please note: Fees are subject to change.

Pets in Hold and Connecting Flights

• Delta will not accept animals traveling on itineraries with more than one connection.
• Delta will not check animals through on separate tickets as separate fees may apply.
• Customers must collect the animal and re-check the animal with the first operating carrier on the additional ticket.
• An exception may be made for separate tickets if they are issued on DL006 ticket stock and if all flights on the itineraries are Delta-operated.
• Delta cannot check animals through to other airlines (OAL) with the exception of a SkyTeam partner airline. Please contact Global Sales Support or  Delta Reservations  for information regarding the pet in hold requirements if transferring to another SkyTeam partner airline.
• Customers will need to contact the other airline to verify animals as checked baggage acceptance and carrier charges.
• Customers must claim their checked animal from Delta at the connecting point and re-check pet with the other airline. Make sure to add 45 minutes to legal connecting time to make the transfer.

UPDATE: Effective June 10, 2022, there will be a new option offered for dogs being imported from high-risk countries:

• A reservation can be made at a CDC-approved care facility (ATL, JFK, LAX, or MIA). The CDC-approved animal care facility will determine if the dog has a valid foreign-issued RVC and rabies serology titer result. Dogs with a valid titer must be examined by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and re-vaccinated at a CDC-approved animal care facility at the importer's expense. If the dog does not have a valid titer, the dog must be re-vaccinated and quarantined for 28 days at the CDC-approved animal care facility at the owner's expense.

Please note: Dogs still must appear healthy, be microchipped, and be at least 6 months old.

With this new option, there are now three options for importing dogs from high-risk countries:

• Option A: A valid US-issued rabies vaccination certificate (RVC). The dog must enter the United States at one of the  18 airports with a CDC quarantine station .
• Option B: A valid  CDC Dog Import Permit . The dog must enter at one of the 18 airports with a CDC Quarantine Station.
• Option C: A reservation at a CDC-approved care facility (ATL, JFK, LAX, or MIA). The CDC-approved animal care facility will determine if the dog has a valid foreign-issued RVC and rabies serology titer result. Dogs with a valid titer must be examined by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and re-vaccinated at a CDC-approved animal care facility at the importer's expense. If the dog does not have a valid titer, the dog must be re-vaccinated and quarantined for 28 days at the CDC-approved animal care facility at the owner's expense.

On July 14, 2021, the CDC issued a temporary suspension of dogs:

• From  countries  classified by the CDC as high risk for dog rabies; AND
• That have been in high-risk countries in the last 6 months.

Dogs vaccinated in the United States by a U.S.-licensed veterinarian may re-enter the United States from a high-risk country without a CDC Dog Import Permit if the dog:

• Has a valid U.S.-issued rabies vaccination certificate ;
• Has proof of a microchip;
• Is at least 6 months old;
• Is healthy upon arrival; and
• Arrives at an approved port of entry

Dogs vaccinated outside of the United States must still apply for a CDC Dog Import Permit and the requirements for the permit have not changed

These rules apply to:

• All  dogs, including trained service animals and emotional support dogs (confirmed prior to Jan. 11, 2021) and dogs arriving from countries NOT at high risk if the dogs have been in any   high-risk country, during the previous 6 months.
• Service animals (SVAN), pet in cabin (PETC), qualifying military in hold (AVIH) and shipped via Cargo (AVIH).
• Customers who are (1) just visiting the U.S. with their dog, (2) importing dogs into the U.S., or (3) returning to the U.S. with their dog after a temporary visit, such as a vacation or holiday.​​

Please note: The CDC will not issue permits to passengers with three (3) or more dogs. Passengers traveling with three (3) or more dogs must choose options A or C above.

Rules for Bringing 3 or More Dogs from a High-risk Country with Foreign Rabies Vaccination Certificates into the United States

Acceptable Ports of Entry

After July 14, 2021 , dogs coming from  high-risk countries   with CDC Dog Import Permits can enter the United States at one of these 18 approved ports of entry airports: Anchorage (ANC), Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Dallas (DFW), Detroit (DTW), Honolulu (HNL), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Minneapolis (MSP), New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), Philadelphia (PHL), San Francisco (SFO), San Juan (SJU), Seattle (SEA), and Washington, DC (IAD).

Additional Resources

Delta strongly advises Travel Agents to review the  informational page , and  FAQs , provided by the CDC, including eligibility for dog import permits in exceptional circumstances. 

Clear and concise documentation of the pet is required to provide necessary service to our customers. Both pet in cabin (PETC) and pet in hold (AVIH) require the following documentation:

• Appropriate SSR (PETC or AVIH)
• Breed of animal
• Weight of animal
• Kennel dimensions

Please contact your local Delta Reservations office or Delta Sales Support to assist you with the documentation requirements for a reservation that includes a PETC or AVIH.

Ship Your Pet with Delta Cargo

Delta Cargo provides safe, reliable, year-round transportation for pets. Our specially trained ground handlers offer customers' pets personalized care and our Cargo Control Center agents actively track every step of their journey. Temperature-controlled vans and holding areas in select stations prevent exposure to extreme temperatures.   Please review the following information before booking a pet on Delta Cargo .

• A separate booking from the customer’s flight itinerary is required. Go to Delta Cargo or call Delta Cargo at 800-352-2846 for details.
• Additional fees and charges may apply.
• A pet shipped domestically via  Delta Cargo cannot be booked until 14 days prior to departure.
• Pets are not guaranteed to be shipped on a customer’s same flight or flight schedule.
• At least three hours before departure time for domestic travel
• At least five hours before departure time for international travel  
• To accept an animal for shipment, forecasted temperatures must be between 20°F and 80°F at each location in the animal’s journey with Delta, including on the ground at origin, transfer and destination.
• Picking up a pet would also occur at a  Delta Cargo location.
• Delta Cargo only accepts international pet shipments from known shippers. Delta suggests that international customers use a  pet shipper approved by the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association. Customers would then need to follow acceptance procedures set by the shipper. A list of IPATA members near you can be found at www.ipata.org .
• For additional information, please contact Delta Cargo at 800-352-2746. 

Many countries and states have strict regulations regarding international pet travel.  Please see U.S. Domestic & International Pet Travel  for more information.

To transport a pet in cabin (PETC) either soft- or hard-sided kennels must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides. Kennels are not sold at Delta Ticket Counters, but are available at most pet supply stores.

To transport a pet as checked baggage or cargo, use an approved shipping kennel in accordance with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines . The kennel must provide enough room for a pet to stand and sit erect — without the head touching the top of the container — and to turn around and lie down in a natural position.

Approved kennels are available for sale for Delta customers and shippers at most Delta Cargo locations, as well as many pet supply stores. To purchase a kennel from Delta, check with the local cargo facility for availability of the kennel size needed in advance of travel date.

View additional details regarding kennel requirements including kennel type, size and cost.

Due to seasonal weather conditions, to keep pets safe, we do not accept pets as checked baggage during certain times of the year. During those times, customers may ship their pets as cargo .

Year-round Restrictions

Delta will not accept animals as checked baggage during extreme weather, if at any point (origin/transit/destination) during the animal's trip the high temperature for the day is forecast to be:  

Delta also will not accept an animal as checked baggage if the temperature in one or more of the cities in the customer's itinerary is at or near Delta's temperature restrictions, above.

Please note : No exceptions are allowed for the temperature restriction.

Delta reserves the right to refuse live animals as checked baggage and as cargo if the animal's health is in question and/or if the health of the animal may be jeopardized by extreme conditions.

• Delta no longer accepts live animals as checked baggage for travel to/from Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR).

Summer Restrictions - May 15 through September 15

• Delta does not accept pets as checked as baggage on Delta and Aeromexico operated flights.
•   Pets may be shipped as cargo but temperature restrictions apply (see year round temperature restrictions above).

Winter Restrictions - November 1 through March 31

•  Sun Valley, ID (SUN)  
• Twin Falls, ID (TWF)
• Jackson Hole, WY (JAC)  
• For all other scenarios, please see the year-round temperature restrictions above.

Additional Weather Restrictions: Live Birds

Pet birds and tropical birds normally kept indoors are at risk if the temperature, at any point on the planned itinerary, is below 50F (10C). When temperatures are between 50F (10C) and 20F (-6.7C), they are transported at the risk of the shipper. A certificate of acclimation is not required.

Live, wild birds will not be transported unless:

• Shipper, or shipper's agent, certifies in writing on shipper's letterhead and submit with the air waybill, that the birds being shipped were born or bred in captivity or on special farms, or birds are being shipped to or from a zoological garden, wildlife preserve, or government wildlife agency.
• Transportation is restricted to Delta local services.

Delta does not accept snub-nosed or pug-nosed dogs and cats as checked baggage in Cargo. There are no military exceptions for restricted pet breeds.

Live Birds Restrictions

Visit Delta Cargo for complete details regarding transporting live birds.

Delta One™ / Business Class / First Class / Flat Bed Seat Restrictions

Pets in Cabin (PETC) are not allowed in the Delta One, Business Class or First Class cabin on any international flight, regardless of aircraft type, due to insufficient space * . In addition, for the same reason, pets are not allowed on any domestic flight in the Delta One, Business Class or First Class Cabin, that is equipped with a flat-bed seat.

* Exception: Delta is accepting PETC in Business and First Class for International travel when the aircraft is not configurated with flat-bed seats. 

Boeing 767 Aircraft Restriction

Delta does not accept animals as checked baggage or cargo on any Delta operated B767 aircraft systemwide. There are no exceptions to this restriction for any customers, including military customers.

Boeing 757 Aircraft Restriction

Delta does not accept animals as checked baggage or cargo on any Delta operated B757 aircraft to/from Europe. There are no exceptions to this restriction for any customers, including military customers.

Airbus 330-200 Aircraft Restriction

Delta does not accept animals as checked baggage or cargo on any Delta operated A330-200 aircraft systemwide. There are no exceptions to this restriction for any customers, including military customers.

Delta Connections & Pet Travel

If a pet's journey requires it to fly more than one airline, there are some additional considerations to think about in advance. Arrange for a pet's flights to allow for plenty of extra time to change planes.

Prior arrangements are necessary with all the carriers involved, for a pet to receive proper attention. If a pet has to transfer from a Delta flight to a Delta Connection flight, the Delta flight must be confirmed at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure time of the Delta Connection flight. That way we have enough time to make transfer arrangements between the two carriers and ensure the pet is safely delivered.

Delta Connection & Pet Travel have different capabilities and policies concerning pets .

Here is a list of Delta’s partner airlines’ websites outlining pet travel:

●         Air France/KLM 

●         Aeroméxico

●         Korean Air

●         Virgin Atlantic

Additional information is available for transporting service and support animals.

For any additional information or questions regarding Delta's pet policy program, please contact Global Sales Support or Delta Reservations for assistance.

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UponArriving

Delta Airlines Pet Policy Guide [2022]

Traveling with a pet can be complicated if you don’t understand the rules and regulations of the airlines and the countries you are traveling to. In this guide, I will not only take you through all that you need to know about Delta Airlines’ pet policy, but I’ll share the requirements, restrictions, and limitations of traveling to some popular countries as well.

Table of Contents

What is the Delta Airlines pet policy?

Passengers can travel with their pets as a carry-on or ship them via Delta Cargo as long as they provide all the necessary carriers for the pet(s), supply any needed documents, and pay the fees. I’ll take you through all of these requirements in detail below.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

What are the fees for traveling with your pets as a carry-on with Delta Airlines?

Small dogs, cats, and household birds can all travel with you in the cabin for a one-way fee, collected each time you board a Delta Airlines flight. As per Delta Airlines policy, household birds are allowed on domestic U.S. flights only, excluding Hawaii, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Guam. 

All animals must fit in a small, well-ventilated pet carrier that fits under the set in front of you. If your pet is too large to fit then you need to consider shipping through Delta Cargo which I have explained in a separate section later below.

Note: Pets in kennels brought in the cabin count as your one carry-on item. In addition to the kennel, Delta allows you to bring one personal item onboard the aircraft .

The following fees apply to/from the following destinations.

CAD amount will be charged to exit Canada, while EUR amount will be charged to exit Europe. These fees are established by the contract of carriage in effect at the time of ticket issuance.

How to avoid Delta Airline pet fees

One of the simplest ways to avoid pet fees at Delta is to use the right travel rewards credit card . The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great card for general travel expenses and since these expenses will often code as travel points, it can be used to offset airline pet fees. Other cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve have a $300 travel credit that could be used on virtually any type of travel purchase, including pet fees.

Tip: Use WalletFlo for all your credit card needs. It’s free and will help you optimize your rewards and savings!

Carry-on pet exceptions and embargos.

When traveling to or from the following destinations on Delta, pets are only permitted to travel as cargo. There is, however, an exception for service animals. When traveling to Hawaii, pets are strictly not permitted in the cabin and other restrictions may also apply. 

A good idea is to go through the current Delta pet travel restrictions based on your destination and/or connecting flights before you book your seats.

As of the date of publishing this post, there is a temporary suspension for dogs traveling within a 6 month period from countries that the CDC considers high risk for dog rabies . The only way around this is to obtain advance written approval from the CDC. This CDC Dog Import Permit applies to all carry-on pets, those traveling via cargo, and even service animals.

The following countries are on the exception list.

• Brazil – Exit Brazil
• Colombia – Exit Colombia
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

If you have a ticket that was purchased for travel from Brazil or Colombia to the U.S. on or after June 7th, 2021, carry-on pets will no longer be allowed with you. Tickets purchased before this date will be honored, however. This embargo does not apply to trained service animals.

Delta Airlines carry-on pet rules

If your furry friend is going to be accompanying you on a Delta flight then here are the rules you need to keep in mind

Cabin Restrictions

For the safety and comfort of all passengers, Delta Airlines allows a fixed number of pets on their aircraft. This means that acceptance is on a first-come, first-serve basis. You should call Delta in advance at 800-221-1212 to arrange to bring your pet on board.

Also, keep in mind that those traveling with a service animal or an emotional support animal will not be allowed to carry an additional pet in the cabin. For your reference, here is the total fixed number of pets Delta allows on their flights depending on the ticket class and destination .

Additionally, carry-on pets are not permitted in the following areas:

• Bulkhead , emergency exit rows
• Seats designated as “no stowage”
• Flat-bed seats
• Rows 30-35 on the A330-200 aircraft
• Rows 30-43 on the A330 -300 aircraft
• Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft

Emotional support animals and Service Animals

Starting January 11, 2021, Delta Airlines no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals. You can of course still carry them as a regular carry-on pet as per the rules and regulations.

Also starting January 11, 2021, Delta now only recognizes dogs as service animals. Travelers with disabilities who require a service animal must fill out the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form . You can find Delta’s complete guide to service animals here .

Military and Foreign Service Officer’s Pets

As a special policy, pets traveling with active U.S. Military or Active U.S State Department Foreign Service Officers (FSO) or their spouses with active transfer orders are transported as checked baggage. For detailed information on the rules and regulations for this category, you can visit here .

Pet Comfort

All animals must be small enough to comfortably fit in their kennel and they must not touch or protrude from the sides of the kennel. Pets must also be able to move around comfortably in their container. 

Please also note that the hard or soft-sided kennels must be leak-proof and have ventilation on 3 sides (4 sides if you are traveling to an international destination)

Sedation/ Tranquilizers

Sedating your animals is not recommended as the effects of pressurized cabins can be unpredictable. Sedation sometimes causes breathing issues with animals as well. In case you have sedated your pet please inform Delta Airlines crew before you board your flight.

Space and Size

All kennels must fit under the seat directly in front of you. Since the space under the seat in front varies from aircraft to aircraft, Delta recommends a soft-sided Kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” that will fit most aircraft.

Pet must always be in the container

Your pet must never leave the container whether you are at the airport, the Delta boarding area , a Delta airport lounge including Delta Sky Club , or onboard the aircraft. The doors to the kennel must always be secured properly.

Your pet’s age

For domestic travel, the pet must be at least 10 weeks. For travel to and from European countries, the pet must be 15 weeks or older. For all other international destinations, your pet must be at least 16 weeks old.

While there is no maximum age for your animal as it varies greatly from pet to pet, it is advised that aging pets should not be subjected to the stresses of air travel.

Animal breed restrictions

Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats and their mixes are not permitted on Delta or Delta Connection flights. See Delta Cargo , for a full list of embargoed dog and cat breeds.

Counts as a carry-on item

Your pet’s kennel will count as one carry-on item, meaning you will be allowed to bring only one additional personal item onboard the aircraft. Everything else must be checked in.

Exceptions to the single pet per kennel rule

• Exception 1: A female dog or cat is allowed per kennel with her un-weaned litter. The litter must be a minimum of 10 weeks old to 6 months of age. There is no restriction on the number of animals in the litter.
• Exception 2: You are allowed 2 pets of the same breed and size between the age of 10 weeks and 6 months in a kennel, provided that they are small enough to comfortably fit into the kennel and are compatible. In this case, they will be charged as 1 pet.

Delta Sky Club

All the above rules that apply to pets onboard aircraft also apply to any Delta Sky Club. Pets may never leave the container and if required a Delta representative can help you find a pet relief area that is available at most airports.

Delta Airlines cargo policy

Transporting your animal through cargo can be stressful for them. When you are bringing them along as a carry-on, at least you are there to comfort them. With cargo, they no longer have that comfort. 

However, if you are in a situation where you cannot accompany your pet for some reason or if your pet is too large to be carried in the cabin then you will have to use cargo. Please note that the Animal Breed Restriction and tips on Sedation/ Tranquilizers mentioned above in carry-on rules, also apply to sending animals through cargo.

Do visit Delta’s International & Connections Pet Travel Guide for the latest rules and restrictions for all key international and long-haul destinations.

Health certificate

A current health certificate by a licensed veterinarian is required within 10 days of the travel date for your pet. It must have the following details.

• Name and address of the shipper.
• Tag numbers or tattoos assigned to the animal.
• Age of the animal being shipped: USDA regulations require animals to be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned before traveling by cargo domestically, at least 16 weeks old before traveling to the U.S. from other countries, and at least 15 weeks old for European travel.
• A statement declaring the animal to be in good health (all animals that are pregnant must be declared in the statement).
• List of administered inoculations when applicable.
• Your veterinarian’s signature and seal (if applicable).
• Date of issue of the certificate.

Live Animal Checklist/Confirmation of Feeding

You must complete a live animal checklist when you bring your pet in for cargo at Delta Airlines. In it, you must confirm that the animal has been given food and water within four hours of check-in. Additionally, you have to provide feeding instructions and if your pet needs to be fed again during transit, you must provide the food as well.

Weather Requirements

Delta Airlines has a policy of not transporting pets during extreme temperatures for the safety of the animals themselves. This includes temperatures exceeding 80˚F (27˚C) or temperatures falling below 20˚F (-7˚C), at any point during the route. A Certificate of Acclimation is required when temperatures fall between 20˚F (-7˚C) and 45˚F (7˚C).

The Delta Airlines pet travel policies are simple enough to understand. You will be paying between $75 and $200 depending on your destination. You must ensure to follow all the rules and observe the restrictions that we have listed above and you will be set to go.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

One comment

When will delta resume travel for dogs from Palm Springs Ca to AVC which is Wilkes barre pa. Due to extreme weather temperatures? Do you have partners / regional airlines which can accommodate the dog kennels in their cargo areas? There are two smaller planes involved in that trip.

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The Pet Friendly Vacation Guide

Delta Airlines Pet Policy: Everything You Need to Know Before Flying with Your Dog or Cat

posted on March 12, 2023 by James Brockbank | Last updated on March 13, 2023

Traveling with your pets can be pretty tricky and not to mention anxiety-inducing. Finding an airline ready to accommodate you is challenging, but their policies can be confusing, even if they accept pets. 

Luckily Delta’s pet policy is straightforward, and the airline tells you all you need to know about how it works and the requirements. The Delta pet policy allows some animals to travel as carry-ons based on their size and what types of animals they are. On the other hand, some pet passengers can ship as cargo.

Requirements for carry-on kennels

Onboard rules for passengers with carry-on pets, fees for carry-on pets, carry-on pet exceptions, reservations for carry-on pets , checking in with a carry-on pet, delta sky club® with pets, delta cargo requirements , health requirements, weather requirements , hawaii and pets , international pet travel, delta pet policy: carry-on pets.

As per Delta Airlines’ pet policy, small dogs, cats, and household birds can travel as carry-ons in the cabin with their owners. The in-cabin travel for carry-on pets requires a one-way fee that Delta will collect at check-in.

The pets you bring in cabin kennels will count as your carry-on item, meaning you can only bring one personal item onboard the plane. 

Delta Airlines allows passengers to bring only one pet carrier on board, while the pet must be at least ten weeks old for domestic travel. However, if you are traveling to the United States from another country, the pet should be at least 16 weeks old, and when traveling to a country in the European Union, at least 15 weeks old. 

Moreover, you can only bring one inside the carrier for the pet’s comfort, with a few exceptions. 

• One cat or dog of the female gender can travel with their unweaned litter in a kennel, given that the litter is between ten weeks to six months of age. There is no limit on the number of animals in the litter.
• Two pets of the same breed and size can travel in one kennel as long as they are small enough to fit into the same kennel. In this case, they will be charged as one pet. 

You must ensure that your pet can fit in a small and ventilated pet carrier that will fit under the seat in front of you. The pet carrier also must meet the following Delta Airlines requirements: 

• The pet must be small enough and fit comfortably in the carrier without touching or protruding from its sides. The animal should have the ability to move around in the kennel. 
• Both soft or hard-sided kennels must be leak-proof and with ventilation openings on three sides (four sides for international travel).
• The maximum dimensions for the carry-on kennel vary and are determined by your flight, as the space under seats varies by aircraft. Delta Airlines recommends using a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18″ x 11″ x 11″ since it fits most aircraft types. 
• As per Delta’s recommendation, you should check your flight’s aircraft dimensions to ensure the kennel will fit. 
• The pet must remain inside its kennel with the door secured while in a Delta boarding area during boarding and deplaning. Also, the pet must be in the Delta airport lounge kennel and on board the aircraft. 
• Delta requires that you fasten the top and bottom halves of your pet crate together. You should use either metal or plastic threaded nuts and bolts to secure both halves of the crate.

Besides your pet having to remain inside their kennel closed/zipped up for the entire flight, passengers with carry-on pets may not sit in the following areas:

• Bulkhead seats
• An emergency exit row
• Seats designated as “no stowage”
• Flat-bed seats
• Rows 30-35 on the A330-200 aircraft
• Rows 30-43 on the A330-300 aircraft 
• Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft
• Delta One® seats

It is important to note that CAD will be charged for exiting Canada and EUR for exiting Europe. The one-way fee for carry-on pets at Delta Airlines is 

• Fees to/from U.S./Canada/Puerto Rico/ U.S. Virgin Islands – USD/CAD 125
• Fees for international flights are USD/CAD/EUR 200. 
• Fees to/from Brazil are USD 75.

If you plan to travel to any of the destinations we mention next, all pets must travel as cargo and cannot be in the cabin, except for service animals. 

• Barbados 
• Brazil – Exit Brazil
• Colombia – Exit Colombia 
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

Additionally, the CDC has an ongoing, temporary suspension prohibiting the entry of dogs, and trained service animals, from high-risk countries for dog rabies into the United States. Per the CDC guidelines, dogs from high-risk countries must appear healthy, be microchipped, and be at least six months old. 

Pets as carry-ons are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. After you check that your pet meets all the requirements set by Delta Airlines, you should contact Delta Reservations to arrange to bring your pet on board. 

Suppose you take a flight operated by one of Delta’s airline partners. In that case, you should check directly with the operating carrier to find out their policies about bringing the pet into the cabin on international flights. 

When contacting Delta Reservations, Delta Airlines also urges customers to have their kennel dimensions (length, width, and height) ready. With the intent of ensuring their passengers’ comfort, Delta puts a limit on the total number of pets per flight.

Once you get to the airport, you must head to the Special Service Counter to check in with your pet. At the Special Service Counter for check-in, a Delta agent will ensure the pet and kennel meet Delta’s requirements for the trip and collect the set pet fee.

It is important to remember to allow extra time at check-in for Delta to ensure your pet is ready for take-off. After you are checked in and get your cabin pet tag, you can proceed to the security checkpoint. Once you are at the checkpoint, you must take your pet out of the kennel. 

The pet must stay in the kennel in the airports except at the security checkpoint and the designated relief areas. 

If you visit a Delta Sky Club with your carry-on pet, Delta’s policies are the same as on board and aircraft. Your pet must remain in its appropriate kennel with the door secured while inside Delta Sky Club for the safety and discomfort of the animal and the rest of Delta Sky Club guests. 

You can ask one of Delta’s representatives to help you find a pet relief area. Pet relief areas are available at most airports for passengers with pets and trained service animals.

Delta Pet Policy: Shipping Your Pet With Delta Cargo

If your pet does not meet the requirements for carry-on travel, you can ship them with the airline’s special shipping service Delta Cargo. Delta Cargo provides reliable and safe year-round transportation to meet the needs of all pets shipped without their owners. 

• You will need a separate booking from your flight itinerary for your pet. Additional fees and charges may apply. 
• If you ship your pet domestically via Delta Cargo, you cannot book it until 14 days prior to departure. 
• Your pet is not guaranteed to be shipped on the same flight or flight schedule as you. 
• If you are shipping your pet, Delta requires you to drop it off at a Delta Cargo location at least three hours before departure time. The Delta Cargo location is separate from passenger check-in. 
• You will need to pick up your pet at a Delta Cargo location. 
• Delta Cargo accepts international pet shipments only from reputable shipping companies. Delta requires international passengers to use a pet shipper approved by the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association. 

Knowing the risks 

Often, traveling via cargo can be stressful for animals due to exposure to unknown environments, people, and movements. It can impact each animal differently, leading to injury, illness, escape, or death. 

Delta encourages passengers to discuss all the risks of air travel with their pet’s veterinarian when getting its health certificate. The most important things to consider are your pet’s age, medical history of pre-existing conditions, and if it has an anxiety disorder that cargo travel may exacerbate.

• Age – Delta does not have a maximum age for air travel because life expectancy varies among breeds. But do keep in mind that impaired vision or hearing, liver, kidney, or heart disease, cancer, arthritis, senility, diabetes, and weakness can impact older animals more. 
• Breed – Delta does not permit Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs or cats and their mixes on Delta or Delta Connection flights.

Health certificate

If you are shipping your pet, Delta requires you to take out a health certificate for it. A licensed veterinarian must issue the health certificate within ten days of transport and include.

• Your name and address. 
• Tag numbers or tattoos assigned to the pet. 
• The age of the pet you are shipping. According to USDA regulations, animals must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned before traveling domestically. For travel from other countries to the U.S., animals must be at least 16 weeks old, and 15 weeks old for European travel.
• A statement that the pet is in good health. If you know your pet is pregnant, you must include it on the health certificate. 
• List of administered inoculations when applicable. 
• Veterinarian’s signature. 
• Date of the health certificate. 

Live animal checklist 

At check-in, you will be asked to complete a live animal checklist. Signing the checklist confirms that your pet has been offered food and water within four hours of check-in. You must also provide watering and feeding instructions for a 24-hour period, and food in case in-transit feeding is necessary. 

Tranquilizers

Because using pet tranquilizers at high altitudes is unpredictable, you must have written consent from the pet’s veterinarian if you plan to sedate it. Delta requires that you attach the sedation information to your pet’s crate. 

However, sedation of household cats and dogs is not permitted, and you must remember that Delta agents cannot administer any medication.

Delta Airlines observes seasonal restrictions on pet travel to ensure your pet’s safety, meaning it does not ship pets during extreme weather. 

The restrictions include temperatures exceeding 80˚F (27˚C) or if the temperature drops below 20˚F (-7˚C) while your pet is on the ground at any point during the trip. Delta requires a certificate of acclimation when temperatures fall between 20˚F (-7˚C) and 45˚F (7˚C). 

Due to Hawaii’s unique ecosystems, the state takes extra care when bringing in live animals despite being part of the U.S. 

According to Hawaii’s regulations, all live animals shipped or brought into the state must have health and rabies inoculation certificates that date no more than ten days before traveling. For flights to Hawaii, Delta does not accept pets as carry-on baggage.

If you plan to travel internationally with your pet, you should prepare by familiarizing yourself with pet travel’s strict regulations. In order to be fully prepared, you should take the following steps before traveling:

• Determine the pet travel regulations by contacting the embassy or consulate of the destination country. 
• Gather all necessary paperwork for your pet’s travel. 
• Contact your pet’s veterinarian to ensure the animal complies with foreign health regulations. 
• About the importation of pets into the U.S., check with the CDC. 
• For international animal export regulations, check with APHIS. 
• Additional fees and charges may apply, including terminal handling charges, custom clearance fees, veterinarian service, kennel storage fees, and shipping rates upon arrival at the destination airport. You must pay all fees and charges in full before the release of your pet.

There you have all the details about the Delta pet policy if you are planning a trip with your pet. It is important to remember that your pet must be safe and comfortable during your flight to avoid health issues like anxiety. As long as you fully familiarize yourself with and follow Delta’s pet policy, you and your pet will have a comfortable journey to your destination.

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Delta: Pet Policy

• Planes & Seat Maps

What methods of transport does Delta Air Lines provide for my pet?

• Travel in the passenger cabin.
• Checked as baggage in pressurized and temperature controlled area of your aircraft.
• Shipped as cargo in pressurized and temperature controlled area.

Does my pet qualify for travel in the passenger cabin?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel in the passenger cabin:

• Your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel under the seat directly in front of you. Maximum carry-on kennel dimensions are determined by your flight. Contact Delta Reservations (1-800-221-1212) to determine the appropriate kennel size.
• Pet must remain inside the kennel (with door secured) while in a Delta boarding area (during boarding and deplaning), a Delta airport lounge, and while onboard the aircraft.
• Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
• You are traveling within the United States (except Hawaii), Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
• Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel, under the seat for the entire flight.
• Only domesticated dogs, cats, and birds are allowed.
• The kennel is specifically made for animal carriage. Dimensions are determined by aircraft type; contact Delta Air Lines for more information.
• Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).
• You may not carry on more than one pet per journey. EXCEPTION: Two pets of the same type may be allowed in one kennel. They must be small enough to fit in one kennel provided they are compatible, of the same species, size, and must meet the requirements of acceptance.
• For tickets issued on or after February 14,2012, pets are not permitted in Business Class for any international flight.

Does Delta limit the number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight?

Delta limits the number of pets per flight to:

• First Class: 2
• BusinessElite®: 2
• Main Cabin: 4

Does my pet qualify for travel as checked baggage?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel as checked baggage:

• Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel for the entire flight.
• Only cats, dogs, household birds, guinea pigs, rabbits, and hamsters are accepted as checked baggage. No snub nosed dogs or cats are permitted to fly as checked baggage.
• The kennel meets all requirements (see below for more information).
• Travel is not scheduled between May 15 and September 15.

Does my pet qualify to be shipped as cargo?

If your pet does not meet the requirements for travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, or you would like your pet to travel unaccompanied contact Delta Air Lines Pet First at 1-888-SEND-PET (888-736-3738) for more information.

Helpful Guidelines:

• All animal shipments are required to be pre-booked prior to arrival at the origin facility.
• International Pet Shipments must be booked 3-30 days in advance.
• US-based Pet Shipments must be booked a minimum of 24 hours in advance and a maximum of 7 days in advance.
• Upon arrival in the destination city, pets will be delivered to the Delta Cargo facility within 60 minutes.
• Only warm-blooded mammals and birds considered to be personal pets or show/exhibition animals will be accepted.
• Primates will not be permitted.
• Animals must be considered non-offensive and not dangerous to passengers and baggage handlers.

What are the fees associated with pet transport?

• Fee for animal in the passenger cabin for travel within U.S./Canada, and Puerto Rico: $125 USD one way
• Fee for animal in the passenger cabin for travel outside U.S.(including U. S. Virgin Islands): $200 USD/CAD/EUR one way
• Fee for animal in the passenger cabin for travel to/from Brazil: $75.00 USD one way
• Fee for animal shipped as cargo: See Delta's shipping rates

What are the kennel requirements?

In addition to the size and weight maximums, the USDA and Delta Air Lines require that kennels meet the following requirements:

• Made out of rigid plastic, wood, metal, or material of comparable strength with solid roofs. No cardboard kennels.
• Have wheels that can made inoperable [applies to wheeled kennels only]
• Have functional handles on the exterior to prevent tilting and any direct contact with the animals.
• Close securely, but not lock.
• Have labels with the words "Live Animal" in letters at least 1-inch tall on the crate's top and on at least one side.
• Have upright arrow labels indicating kennel's correct position. Delta Cargo can provide these labels.
• Contain some type of absorbing bedding.
• Contain two dishes (one for food and one for water) attached to the inside of the kennel door which must be easily accessible to Delta agents without opening the kennel door.
• Feeding instructions affixed to the top of the kennel, along with shipper and consignee information.
• NOT be made entirely of welded mesh, wire mesh, wicker, cardboard or collapsible materials.

What health documentation is required?

While Delta Air Lines does not require a health certificate for your animal to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, some States and Countries do require health documents. As it is the passenger's responsibility to be aware of all regulations, you should consult your veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture to ensure that your animal will comply with all requirements. A health certificate is required if your animal will be traveling as Cargo. Call Pet First at 1-888-SEND-PET (888-736-3738) for more information.

Are there any other restrictions?

Delta Air Lines can refuse to transport an animal due to illness, aggressive behavior, poor kenneling, or extreme temperatures at origin, transfer, or destination airports.

Pug or snub-nosed dogs and cats will not accepted as checked baggage or as cargo if the temperature on any part of the trip will exceed 70 degrees Farenheit.

Please contact the airline directly for information about traveling with a service animal.

SeatGuru was created to help travelers choose the best seats and in-flight amenities.

The Best Airlines for Pet Travel

So you're ready to travel the world with your pet by your side. But which airline is best for your fur baby? To help you choose the right airline for you and your favorite canine, feline, rabbit or bird, The Points Guy teamed up with Airfarewatchdog.com on a reader survey answered exclusively by traveling pet parents. We also asked TPG Lounge members to weigh in on their favorite airlines for pet travel; sifted through five years of Air Travel Consumer Reports from the Department of Transportation (DOT); and scoured pages of airline pet policies to identify the top (and, frankly, not-so-hot) airlines for pet travel.

According to the TPG and Airfarewatchdog.com reader survey, the most popular reason travelers fly with a pet (40.7%) is because they can't — or simply won't — leave their pet at home. Moving to a new location came in second, with 27.4% of the vote. For 21.9% of travelers, it's the need for emotional support.

A majority of pet owners (78.1%) have traveled with a dog, while 18.8% have traveled with a cat and 3.1% have traveled with another type of animal. To give you some idea of what that "other" might be, Spirit, Alaska and Delta Air Lines all permit birds inside the cabin. One airline even green lights hamsters and guinea pigs! (But we'll get to that later.)

Only about a third (30.3%) of pet owners reported putting their fur baby under the plane in cargo. Though it's rarely the preferred method of transporting pets, it's the only option for some.

Happily, 81% of travelers reported having only positive experiences when traveling with their pet. In fact, 35% of pet parents said they've actually had an exceptional experience while flying, nodding to accommodating and friendly flight attendants.

The Details

So welcome aboard, furry friends! In the back pocket of the seat in front of you, you'll find the airline pet policy cards ranked by the best-rated airlines from the survey. Each card features important information about flying with a pet on that particular carrier. The animals featured on each card represent the species that will be allowed to fly alongside their humans in the cabin. (Additional types of animals may be allowed in the cargo area, depending upon the carrier.) Pet fees apply to carry-on pets only, as animals flying in cargo need to be booked on a separate ticket with a price dependent on the individual flight.

Of course, there are a number of other things animal owners should consider before flying with pets. In addition to the airline, pet parents have to make important decisions about the right type of carrier, where they're staying upon arrival and whether or not it's necessary at all for their pet to fly.

10. Hawaiian Airlines (0.5%)

Hawaiian is one of the most restrictive airlines in terms of pet travel. Animals can only fly in the cabin on inter-island flights, and those departing the Hawaiian Islands. And pets flying from or to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) are completely prohibited. Given the fact that people can't travel with their pet in the cabin unless they're leaving the Aloha State, it's not surprising to see this airline's low survey scores. The state of Hawaii has strict laws regarding incoming pets, including a mandatory quarantine if pet owners do not take the proper steps beforehand. This may be a turn-off for traveling pet parents.

9. Spirit Airlines (2.2%)

Despite the ultra low-cost carrier's notorious baggage restrictions, it actually allows one of the most spacious onboard carriers, compared to other domestic airlines (18 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches). The airline allows the heaviest pet carry-on, too: a combined 40 pounds for both the weight of the pet as well as the carrier. Dogs, cats and small household birds are welcome in the cabin. Bigger dogs are out of luck, however, since pets cannot fly under the plane on Spirit.

8. Frontier Airlines (2.4%)

Though Frontier received only 2.4% of the survey vote, its not all bad news for this regional airline. The fixed fee of $75 per pet, per segment is the most affordable across all the domestic airlines. Frontier also allows for a spacious in-cabin carrier and welcomes the largest variety of pets in the cabin, including dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs and small household birds. Plus, TPG Lounge member Rachel H. said that though she's only traveled with her pet once, her experience with this airline was great. "Frontier let me hold my bird's carrier in my lap the whole way," she said.

7. Allegiant (2.7%)

Good news for young travelers, four-legged and otherwise. Allegiant is the only airline that allows minors (age 15 and up) traveling alone to bring a pet onboard. All other airlines, for reference, require solo passengers to be over the age of 18 to travel with a pet. Allegiant also does not enforce a minimum age for traveling animals, meaning you can start getting your kitten or puppy acclimated to air travel early. Pets can only travel as a carry-on, so leave the big dogs at home.

6. JetBlue (8.6%)

In her experience, Michele C. from the TPG Lounge said "JetBlue is the easiest" airline for pet travel, as it's the only airline with which you can "book and pay the pet travel fee with your itinerary." With other airlines, she explained, "you have to call after you've booked your flight and then pay [the fee] at the airport." This makes JetBlue one of the most straightforward and convenient airlines for travelers with four-legged companions in tow. When booking a JetBlue flight for you and your pet, a Pet Travel designation shows on your boarding pass. The airline also offers a complimentary JetPaws program that includes a guide to pet travel etiquette, a designated bag tag and an additional 300 TrueBlue points per segment for flying with your pet.

5. Alaska Airlines (10.8%)

Donna M. from the TPG Lounge had a great experience flying with her cats on Alaska. "We took our cats on Alaska [from] SFO to DEN when we relocated," she said. "We called and booked the entire row of three and then spoke to the gate agents, who had us preboard to be out of the way and have the cats settled under the seats in front. Such a good experience for all. But allow plenty of time, [and] be polite and grateful when people help you — not entitled!" Lisa V., meanwhile, has flown twice with her dog in the cabin on an Alaska flight with zero issues to report.

4. United (11.3%)

Despite snagging the No. 4 spot in the reader survey, United has a notoriously bad reputation when it comes to pet travel. But this might have something to do with the fact that United is the only airline that will fly brachycephalic dog breeds in cargo. Brachycephalic breeds include dogs with flat faces and short noses, such as pugs, boxers and bulldogs. These breeds are more likely to have respiratory issues in flight, which is the reason all other major US carriers have banned brachycephalic dogs from flying in cargo. According to the Air Travel Consumer Reports from the DOT, six out of the 10 dog deaths reported by United in 2017 included brachycephalic breeds. Although United has its issues, it is frankly the only airline for travelers who need to transport their brachycephalic dog.

3. American (15.6%)

American Airlines offers one of the biggest carrier dimensions (19 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches), so your pup can enjoy a bit more space during the flight, though the total weight limit is half what Spirit allows. The airline allows pets to be transported in the cabin when traveling to and within the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Colombia and the Caribbean. If you're flying in first or business class on an A321T, pets will need to be put in their carrier and stored in a special compartment at the front of the plane during taxi, take-off, landing and turbulence.

2. Southwest (22.6%)

Southwest ranked in second in the pet travel survey, and it also offers the second least expensive pet fee, behind Frontier's $75. The airline also makes it easy for pet owners to pick out an appropriate carrier by offering a branded carrier of their own that will fit under any Southwest seat. The airline allows cats and dogs to travel within the US, but does not offer this service on international flights. Only small cats and dogs will be able to fly on Southwest, as they do not allow pets in cargo. And according to a TPG reader eyewitness report, you may have a lot of freedom on a Southwest flight with your pet. "I don't think [Southwest] enforces keeping dogs in the carriers or under the seat," Connie C. observed . "My last few flights had dogs on laps the entire flight."

1. Delta Air Lines (23.4%)

TPG lounge member Brittani S. said she was "very pleased" with Delta's pet cargo. "It's climate controlled and well-regulated. We flew from Texas to Hawaii [during] the summer and they were able to accommodate us despite the heat because of air conditioned transport between the terminal and plane." Likewise, Lindsey B. was also pleased with her experience flying a pet in Delta's cargo hold. "The crew verified our dog was on board before take off," she reported. If you have to fly with your pet in cargo, Delta may be the best airline for you.

What airline do you like best when traveling with your pet? Sound off in the comments below!

All illustrations by Aida Amer .

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Table of Contents

The official rankings

The best airlines for pets, the challenges of traveling with pets, airlines that allow dogs, cats and other pets, recapped, methodology: how we made our pet-friendly airline rankings.

Traveling with a pet can be stressful and expensive, period. And some airlines make it especially so. Some airlines that used to happily ship your pet in cargo will transport them no more. Your emotional support animal likely can no longer fly for free. COVID-19 upended many facets of the travel industry, and flying with pets is no exception.

We analyzed nine U.S. airlines on 12 variables to find the most pet-friendly airlines. We combed through the fine print, fees and policies of all the major airlines to find which ones charge the lowest fees, are the most flexible in terms of what pets you can bring and how well they handle pet transport.

And the reality is, flying with pets is a bleak undertaking with almost any airline. Of the nine airlines we rated on a five-point scale, only one really stands out as any good — our winner, Alaska Airlines. Only one other option, Frontier, scored higher than a 3. Every other airline fell below that.

Here are the best airlines for traveling with a pet.

We analyzed the same nine U.S. airlines that were reviewed as part of NerdWallet's greater Best Of Airlines rankings . There are certainly other, smaller airlines that can often be better for pets ( JSX is a great air carrier for pets ), but they weren't included in our official rankings because they didn't meet all the criteria for consideration (namely too small of a network to be relevant to most people).

NerdWallet's rankings considered factors including whether pets are allowed, the average pet fee and airline safety records to determine what airline is best for pet travel.

Here are the airlines we reviewed and the overall rankings of each:

Which airlines are pet-friendly? The simple answer is Alaska — and to some extent Frontier — offers the best overall experiences for flyers with pets, according to NerdWallet's analysis.

Here's a snapshot of some of the data we collected to help you plan for flying with dogs, cats and other pets.

Airlines typically charge from $95 to $125 each way per pet, with the average being $118. Across the major airlines, you'll find the lowest pet fees at Delta ($95 each way), Frontier ($99 each way) and Alaska ($100 each way).

1. Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is the best airline for traveling with a pet. While not the absolute lowest, iIt had among the lowest fees and the most flexible pet policy in terms of what types of pets you can bring.

Traveling the main cabin

Alaska has among the lowest pet fees for the main cabin, charging $100 each way per kennel or carrier. Since up to two pets of the same species and similar size may travel in the same carrier, that’s just $50 per pet if traveling with two.

Theoretically, you can fly with up to four pets. The Alaska pet policy lets you bring up to two pet carriers in the main cabin, but that gets pricey as you’ll have to purchase the adjacent seat too. But at least if you’ve got quite a menagerie to transport, it’s possible.

While many airlines restrict main cabin pets to cats and dogs only, Alaska is more flexible, allowing rabbits and household birds, too.

Like most airlines, your pet carrier also counts toward your carry-on bag allotment, so plan to check bags — or pack light.

Traveling in checked baggage or cargo

If your pet is too large to fit under the seat, it can travel in the climate-controlled baggage compartment within the U.S. for $150.

Lounging before your flight

If you’re heading to an Alaska lounge , your pet can come too — as long as it’s well-behaved. The lounges, which are accessible to passengers with certain levels of elite status or people who purchase a separate membership, accept quiet service animals and pets in carry-on kennels.

2. Frontier Airlines

Frontier doesn’t often win many awards, but it does handle pets better than many other airlines. One big reason is that while other airlines will fly cats and dogs only, Frontier accepts rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and small household birds, too (though international flights still limit pets to cats and dogs only).

Pet fees are a nonrefundable $99 per pet, per direction.

The biggest downfall of Frontier’s pet policies is that the airline won’t let your pet fly in the baggage compartment or cargo (main cabin only). That means your pet must be small (and calm) enough to remain underneath your seat. With Frontier, maximum pet container dimensions are 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches.

Read the fine print before attempting to travel with pets on a plane.

Even with the most pet-friendly airlines, there are still many restrictions around a pet’s size and how free (or confined to the kennel) they can be when traveling within the main cabin. Some individual routes or aircraft have their own unique limitations beyond the standard airline pet policy. Rules can even vary by state, so your experience flying with the same airlines to another could differ.

Plus, beyond fees, you’ll likely also incur a bunch of paperwork and phone calls before your pet can fly. Here are a few road bumps to watch out for:

You must reserve a spot in advance — so your pet’s travels aren't guaranteed (even if your seat is booked)

Even on the best airline for flying with pets, Alaska, it’s not a guarantee that your pet can fly. That’s because all airlines limit the overall number of pets allowed in the main cabin and cargo. For example, Alaska’s first-class cabin can accommodate only one pet carrier per flight, and the main cabin accommodates up to five.

You’ll generally need to contact the airline to reserve a space for your pet. Always confirm space is available before booking your own seat, as you don’t want to deal with the headache of canceling should there be no room for your pet.

Most airlines force you to pick up the phone and call to reserve your space, which might entail a long hold time. But Southwest scored some extra points in our rankings because it has many ways to reserve your pet’s spot, including via Facebook and Twitter. Southwest encourages sending a direct message on Twitter to @Southwestair or via Facebook private message your confirmation number to reserve your pet’s spot.

Emotional support animals are no longer recognized as service animals

In past years, you may have traveled with your emotional support animal for free. That’s no longer the case. These days, all pets are subject to pet policies and fees on all of the major airlines we reviewed.

That’s due to a December 2020 ruling from the U.S. Department of Transportation that eliminated a requirement that airlines allow emotional support animals free of charge. By early 2021, all of the major airlines announced that they would no longer recognize emotional support animals as necessary for air travel.

Certified service animals are still permitted at no additional cost under the Air Carrier Access Act.

» Learn more: The latest in travel news

Fewer airlines will transport your pets in cargo or checked baggage

Of the major U.S. airlines, only Alaska, American and Hawaiian will transport pets in checked baggage and/or cargo.

In the early days of the pandemic, United suspended its pet cargo services and has yet to resume them. Other major airlines, including Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines, never accepted pets in cargo.

Other reasons airlines might not let your pet fly

Flying, even on our highly ranked airlines, can be annoyingly uncertain. Other reasons airlines may not let your pet fly include:

It’s the holiday season: Some airlines don’t accept pets in the baggage or cargo compartments during holiday travel periods. Check with your airline.

Your pet is a certain breed: Most airlines won't transport brachycephalic or "short-nosed" dogs and cats in cargo, though they might still be allowed in carry-on.

“Veterinary experts say that short-nosed animals commonly have abnormalities that can compromise their breathing,” according to Alaska. “Stress associated with flight can make those conditions worse.”

If you’re flying with one of those breeds, which includes pit bulls, Boston terriers and many types of bulldogs and pugs, check the airline’s specific policy.

You don’t have proper paperwork: Most airlines require a valid health certificate issued by your vet, certifying that your pet is fit to fly. Most airlines also require proper vaccines.

Some only require it for cargo, but not main cabin flying. Check with your airline before boarding.

Your pet isn’t behaving: Most airlines will deny boarding to misbehaving pets. The definition of a poorly behaved pet can be subjective, but most airlines outline growling, excessive whining or barking, or urinating or defecating in the cabin or gate area as reasons.

Even if your pet is an angel at home, don’t assume it will behave the same way at an airport. Have a backup plan if there’s any chance your pet will be unpredictable on a plane.

» Learn more: Baffled by points and miles? Let the 80/20 rule guide you

Animal air travel is far from a walk in the park. Sometimes, the fee to store your pet under the seat in front of you (while sacrificing your own precious legroom) is pricier than your own airfare. Before arriving at the airport, expect paperwork to sign and phone calls to make. Upon arrival, there’s a chance you’ll be denied boarding if the gate agent hears or sees any disruptive behavior.

If you must fly with a pet, but the restrictions feel burdensome, consider skipping the commercial aircraft entirely. Some private and semi-private jets such as JSX won’t clamp down on breeds or sizes, and won’t make you wrestle your way through security with a pet in tow.

When it comes to air travel with pets, you don’t exactly have your pick of the litter. Alaska was the best of the bunch, but even animal travel on Alaska has limitations. Know what you’re getting into before planning a flight with a pet. And accept that sometimes a road trip (or even a private jet) might be better.

We gave each airline a score from 1 to 5 across 12 categories. Some categories received more weight than others (e.g., we gave more weight to the number of death, loss and accident reports since safety is paramount compared with saving $10 on a lower fee to fly your pet in cargo).

Here are our complete rankings.

Here are the primary factors we considered:

Cost for main cabin: How much does it cost to bring pets in the main cabin?

Refunds, accessibility and ease: Were pet fees refundable? What sorts of limits are there on allowing pets in lounges? How easy is it to book a space for your pet on the flight?

Number of pets allowed per passenger: If pets were allowed in the main cabin, how many you can bring?

Types of animals allowed in the main cabin: Can you fly with a pet bird? We gave higher points when species other than cats and dogs are allowed.

Allow pets in cargo: Whether pets are allowed to travel in cargo, in any capacity.

Cost for cargo, if even possible: Whether pets are allowed in checked baggage or cargo, and, if so, how much it costs.

Injuries, deaths or lost pets: We looked at Department of Transportation data from June 2021 to May 2022 for reports of deaths, injuries or losses of pets shipped via cargo. We normalized the data relative to overall passenger count to avoid penalizing larger airlines that might have more reports because they transport more animals.

We didn't factor in pet-friendly international airlines, as those policies can also vary significantly.

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1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

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Boarding, Baggage & More: A Brief Guide To Delta Air Lines' Military Travel Benefits

• Delta offers perks for US military including free baggage and pre-boarding, benefiting active duty members and veterans.
• Military personnel can bring pets on Delta flights, but there are restrictions and fees based on the destination.
• Delta provides a special discount for military members through Delta Vacations, allowing savings on flight and hotel packages.

Several airlines offer different benefits for active duty US military personnel, veterans, and their families. While the perks may vary during different times of the year, they can be a big help for those currently serving or who have served regarding their travel plans. Some military personnel may fly home after duty or head to duty. Regardless, Delta Air Lines has a plethora of benefits, including through its all-inclusive vacation branch, Delta Vacations.

The Atlanta-based US legacy carrier offers benefits for active members of the US Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. As the airline’s way of expressing gratitude to those who protect and serve the US, Delta has special policies for military personnel, such as pet travel and early boarding. Most checked baggage is also free of charge, whether on travel orders or leisure trips. The benefits also extend beyond the flight, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows members of the US Armed Forces to receive expedited security screenings via TSA PreCheck at the airport.

Honoring those who have served or currently serve

Delta allows active duty US military members with an ID to pre-board flights, meaning they can board the aircraft before Delta One or first-class passengers. The perk is beneficial, especially if the flight is completely full. It allows military personnel to settle into their seats and relax before the hustle and bustle of the other travelers fills the cabin.

Pre-boarding is also available for passengers needing assistance getting on the aircraft or additional boarding time. Active duty members are also “allowed more free bags than civilian customers.” According to Veteran.com , Delta awards as many as five free checked bags with a limit of 100 pounds each to military personnel when on travel orders. This is incredibly accommodating if they bring a lot of equipment or personal belongings should their duty last several months. If they are traveling personally, two free checked bags are allowed with a limit of 50 pounds each.

Delta Air Lines Delays Tel Aviv Return After Extensive Security Assessment

The baggage benefit is undoubtedly a perk, considering Delta recently raised its checked baggage fees to civilian passengers. Following several other airlines increasing their fees, Delta now charges its Comfort+ and main cabin travelers $35 each way for the first standard checked bag under 50 pounds, while one free carry-on bag and a personal item are still allowed.

For passengers checking a second bag under 50 pounds, it will cost them $45 each way. Of course, military personnel, as well as Delta One or first class passengers, are exempt from these charges. Travelers with the Delta SkyMiles American Express Card or Medallion Status are also not subject to baggage fees.

Medical emergency flights

Travel privileges are also extended to war-injured immediate family members or domestic partners. According to Delta, those individuals are classified under its Medical Emergency policy, which offers flight discounts. To book a medical emergency flight, the person must provide their name and relationship to their injured family member or domestic partner. Additionally, they would need to provide the name and phone number of the military hospital where their relative or loved one is recieving care. Delta defines immediate family members as:

• Domestic partners
• Stepsiblings
• Stepchildren
• Grandparents
• Grandchildren
• Father-in-law
• Mother-in-law
• Sister-in-law
• Brother-in-law
• Daughter-in-law

The carrier's website lists more information on the prices of its medical emergency flights. Immediate family members will need to call the airline to book a flight.

Pet travel & Delta Vacations

Military personnel can also travel with their pets. Delta only accepts animals as checked baggage for US military or active duty US State Department Foreign Service Officers and their spouses with active transfer orders. However, checking their pet does come with a fee, and it depends on where the individual is traveling. On flights within the US, US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, the cost is $200 to check their pet. I

t is also $200 for international flights to and from Canada or the Caribbean. Travel to and from Brazil is a $150 checked pet fee. All fees are charged each way. Checked pets are prohibited on flights to Australia, Barbados, Hong Kong, Iceland, Jamaica, Liberia, New Zealand, Senegal, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates.

There is a variety of acceptable pets, but there are some restrictions. According to the airline, military personnel may transport two crates per flight. However, larger crates may only be shipped as cargo, which could result in additional restrictions depending on the aircraft and class of service. Cats are permitted, except for snub-nosed cats. Dogs are allowed as well, minus pug breeds or other snub-nosed dogs. Other acceptable animals only within US domestic flights include household birds, guinea pigs, rabbits, and hamsters.

Other animals are allowed but must be shipped as cargo. These include reptiles and primates – lemurs, monkeys, orangutans, gorillas, and chimpanzees. The fee is charged each time the pet is checked in at the airport and will be assessed at each stopover point. Delta says exceptions may apply to flight itineraries with connections over six hours. However, animals are not included with the free baggage privileges granted to military personnel or eligible Delta SkyMiles members.

Lastly, the airline honors military personnel by offering a special discount on Delta Vacations. This perk can allow individuals to save up to $200 per flight and hotel vacation package to any of its 300+ destinations worldwide. Here are the current discounts offered:

• $25 off vacations that cost up to $1,499
• $75 off vacations priced between $1,500 and $3,999
• $125 off vacations that cost from $4,000 to $6,999
• $200 off vacations priced at $7,000 or more

All eligible personnel are encouraged to contact the airline for more details about all of its military perks.

Which North American Airlines Offer Military Discount Flight Fares?

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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Take a Pet From One U.S. State or Territory to Another (Interstate)

When you travel with a pet, your destination State or Territory may have animal health requirements, such as obtaining a health certificate, updating vaccinations, diagnostic testing, or administering treatments. As soon as you know your travel details, contact your local veterinarian to help with the pet travel process.

Find U.S. State and Territory Requirements

APHIS doesn't regulate the interstate movement of pets. Domestic movement requirements are set by the receiving State or Territory.

Contact the  State animal health official  in your destination State or Territory if you have questions or need clarification on any of the requirements.

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American Airlines Makes Traveling With Pets Cheaper and Easier

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American Airlines Changes Pet Policy

Final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Traveling with pets is already a hassle, let alone the stress that goes into taking them through an airport, past security, and onto a plane. While the brave of heart have done this song and dance for years, it’s always incurred plenty of additional cost.

While American Airlines hasn’t changed the fees they’ll charge for bringing a pet with you, it altered the policy for the luggage you can bring with you while traveling with a pet. As first noted by View From the Wing, those traveling with pets are now able to bring full-size carry-on luggage with them .

Here’s what’s going on.

As it stands, those wanting to travel with their pets have to comply with a variety of policies, including kennel size, pet weight, and, of course, paying actually to bring their pet with them. This is true of all 3 big U.S. airlines, including American Airlines , United Airlines , and Delta Air Lines .

Historically , bringing a pet with you meant that you weren’t able to bring a full-size carry-on as well. Although the pet’s carrier needed to fit (and stay) under the seat in front of you, the kennel counted as your carry-on bag. You could, however, bring a personal item such as a backpack or purse.

Now, American Airlines has updated its policy to allow those traveling with pets to also bring a carry-on bag with them . Why is this such a big deal?

Because those without status or airline credit cards will have needed to pay for any checked luggage. Given the fact that American has recently hiked the cost of a checked bag to $40 within the U.S. (and $35 if paid online), that stings. Combine this with the $150 fee for traveling with a pet, and you can quickly see how the costs add up — on top of airfare.

Delta and United still maintain that a pet counts as a carry-on, so travelers of those airlines are out of luck.

Of course, jury is still out on how uncomfortable it’s going to be to bring both a pet carrier and a rolling suitcase with you at the same time, but those are the sacrifices we make for the ones we love.

Give checked bag fees a miss with our tips in the ultimate guide to avoid paying for baggage fees.

American Airlines has updated its policy to make traveling with pets easier. Rather than needing to check additional luggage, this allows passengers to bring their full-sized carry-on with them onboard.

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About Carissa Rawson

Carissa served in the U.S. Air Force where she developed her love for travel and new cultures. She started her own blog and eventually joined The Points Guy. Since then, she’s contributed to Business Insider, Forbes, and more.

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A big airline is relaxing its pet policy to let owners bring the companion and a rolling carry-on

Gary leff, a travel blogger, says the change will reduce the urge for travelers to falsely claim that their pet is a service animal that flies for free., by the associated press • published march 29, 2024.

American Airlines is relaxing part of its pet policy to let owners bring their companion and a full-size carry-on bag into the cabin.

Until this week, people who carried a pet into the cabin — which involves paying a $150 fee — could only have one other small item that fit under the seat.

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Anything bigger, like a carry-on bag with wheels, needed to be checked — for a $35 fee. Or they could put the pet in the cargo hold.

Now American is letting passengers bring a pet in the cabin and also bring a regular carry-on bag or a personal item — just not both bags.

The old policy struck some pet owners as unfair, since they were already paying a pet fee.

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Gary Leff, a travel blogger who first wrote about the change, recalled traveling years ago with a Yorkshire terrier.

“It was always frustrating that the dog counted as the carry-on even though I was paying the extra (pet) fee that was sometimes more than the ticket for me,” he said Friday.

Leff said he thinks American's change will reduce the urge for travelers to falsely claim that their pet is a service animal that flies for free.

An American spokeswoman confirmed that the rules change took effect Thursday.

“We made the change to provide a more convenient and comfortable experience to customers whose pets fly American," she said.

This article tagged under:

Watch CBS News

American Airlines revises its policy for bringing pets and bags on flights

March 29, 2024 / 7:11 PM EDT / CBS/AP

American Airlines is relaxing part of its pet policy to let owners bring their animal companion and a full-size carry-on bag into the cabin.

Until this week, people who carried a pet into the cabin, which involves paying a $150 fee, could only have one other small item that fit under the seat. Anything bigger, like a carry-on bag with wheels, needed to be checked for a $35 fee. Or they could put the pet in the cargo hold.

Now American is letting passengers bring a pet in the cabin and also bring either a regular carry-on bag or a personal item — just not both bags. The old policy struck some pet owners as unfair, since they were already paying a pet fee. Passengers must still pay a fee, but their pet no longer counts as a carry-on.

An American spokeswoman confirmed that the rules change took effect Thursday. She couldn't explain the reason because the airline's corporate offices were closed for Good Friday, and decision-makers were not available. 

Gary Leff, a travel blogger who first wrote about the change, recalled traveling years ago with a Yorkshire terrier.

"It was always frustrating that the dog counted as the carry-on even though I was paying the extra (pet) fee that was sometimes more than the ticket for me," he said Friday.

Leff said he thinks American Airlines' new policy will reduce the urge for travelers to falsely claim that their pet is a service animal that flies for free, enabling them to bring a carry-on as well.

Even with the new policy, however, traveling with a pet takes a lot of planning and research ahead of time, and many factors could prohibit Fido or Felix from being allowed into the cabin. For one thing, there is a maximum total number of pets allowed per cabin, which varies depending on the type of aircraft.

On United, the total maximum of four pets is allowed in Economy class on the Airbus 319, while Economy on the Airbus 319 allows a total maximum of six pets. In all instances, individual passengers are allowed to bring a maximum of pets in one single carrier. 

Other U.S. airlines that allow pets on board include Delta, American, Southwest, Alaska and Frontier. On most, pet carriers count as carry-ons, according to the American Kennel Club.

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