Are you dreaming of taking your beloved canine companion on your next adventure with American Airlines? Flying with your dog can be a wonderful experience, but it requires careful planning and adherence to airline regulations. Don't worry, we're here to guide you through every step of the process!
A Comprehensive Guide to Flying with Your Dog on American Airlines
Flying with a pet involves understanding American Airlines' specific policies, whether your dog will be joining you in the cabin or traveling in the cargo hold. Let's break it down to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your furry friend.
Step 1: Determine Your Dog's Eligibility and Travel Method
Before you even think about booking, the first crucial step is to figure out if your dog can fly and how they'll travel. American Airlines offers two main options for dogs: in-cabin (carry-on) and cargo (checked pet). Service animals have different guidelines, which we'll touch upon briefly.
Sub-heading: In-Cabin Travel Requirements (Carry-On Pets)
This is the most popular option for smaller dogs, allowing them to stay with you in the passenger cabin. However, it comes with strict requirements:
Size and Weight Limits: Your dog must be small enough to fit comfortably in an approved carrier that stows under the seat in front of you. While American Airlines doesn't provide exact dimensions for hard-sided carriers for under-seat storage, they recommend soft-sided collapsible kennels with maximum dimensions of approximately 18" L x 11" W x 11" H. The total weight of your pet and carrier must generally not exceed 20 pounds (9.07 kg).
Breed Restrictions: American Airlines has a list of restricted breeds, particularly brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs, due to potential respiratory issues during flight. Always check their official website for the most current list. Examples of commonly restricted breeds include Bulldogs (all types), Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Boston Terriers.
Age Requirements: Your dog must be at least 8 weeks old to travel in the cabin.
Carrier Requirements:
Must be an approved pet carrier (soft-sided or hard-sided) that is leak-proof and well-ventilated.
Your dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier.
The carrier must remain under the seat in front of you for the entire flight.
Only one pet per passenger is generally allowed in the cabin, unless it's a mother with an unweaned litter (between 8 weeks and 6 months old) or two pets of the same species (2 cats or 2 dogs) between 8 weeks and 6 months old, each weighing less than 20 lbs (9.07 kg) and fitting comfortably in one carrier.
Flight Restrictions: In-cabin pets are generally permitted on flights within the 48 contiguous United States, and between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, and St. Thomas. Hawaii has specific restrictions, generally not allowing carry-on pets. The maximum flight duration for in-cabin pets is typically 12 hours.
Limited Availability: There's a limit to how many pets can travel in the cabin on each flight (typically seven carriers on American Airlines mainline flights and five on American Eagle flights). This is a "first-come, first-served" basis, so booking early is crucial!
Sub-heading: Cargo Travel Requirements (Checked Pets)
For larger dogs, or if your dog doesn't meet the in-cabin requirements, they might travel as checked cargo through American Airlines Cargo's "PetEmbark" program. This is a more complex process and currently has significant limitations:
Restricted to Specific Personnel: As of recent policies, American Airlines only accepts checked pets at the ticket counter for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. For general public pet cargo, you typically need to book through American Airlines Cargo services, which often involves working with a pet relocation broker or agent.
Breed Restrictions: Similar to in-cabin, certain breeds, especially brachycephalic dogs, are restricted due to health concerns.
Age and Health: Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel and 6 months old for international travel as cargo. They must also be healthy enough for air travel, as certified by a veterinarian. Sedation is not allowed.
Kennel Requirements: Cargo kennels have very specific requirements to ensure your pet's safety and comfort:
Rigid plastic, metal, or wood construction with a metal grated door.
Adequate ventilation on at least three sides (four for international flights).
Must be leak-proof with absorbent material.
Sufficient space for the pet to stand, turn around, sit erect, and lie in a natural position.
No wheels or they must be inoperable.
Clean food and water dishes securely attached and accessible from outside.
A clear, one-gallon bag of food taped to the top with feeding instructions.
Temperature Restrictions: American Airlines has strict temperature embargoes for cargo travel. Pets generally cannot travel if the forecasted temperature at any point on the itinerary is 85°F (29°C) or higher, or 45°F (7°C) or lower. A veterinarian's letter can sometimes waive the cold weather restriction if temperatures are above 20°F (-6°C).
Flight Duration: Checked pets are typically accepted on flights up to 12 hours.
Booking Process: Booking cargo travel is separate from your passenger ticket and requires contacting American Airlines Cargo directly or using their PetEmbark online booking portal (if eligible for online booking, e.g., domestic US travel, one animal per kennel, specific routing).
Sub-heading: Service Animals
Fully trained service dogs assisting individuals with disabilities are welcome to fly in the cabin at no charge. They must meet specific requirements:
Definition: A service animal is a dog (regardless of breed) individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability. Emotional support animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized as service animals by American Airlines and must travel as pets.
Documentation: You may be required to provide a U.S. DOT form attesting to the animal's health, behavior, and training. For flights 8 hours or longer, a form attesting to the animal's ability to relieve itself in a sanitary manner may also be required.
Behavior: Service animals must be under the control of their handler at all times (e.g., leashed, harnessed, or via voice commands) and behave appropriately. Disruptive behavior can result in denial of transport.
Placement: The service animal must fit at your feet or on your lap (if small enough) without blocking the aisle or emergency exits.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation and Prepare Your Dog
Once you know how your dog will travel, it's time to get all your ducks (and dog) in a row. This is a critical step to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Sub-heading: Health Certificate and Vaccinations
Health Certificate: A health certificate is mandatory for all pets traveling on American Airlines. This document, issued and signed by a licensed veterinarian, must be dated within 10 days of your travel. For round-trip travel within the U.S. on the same ticket, the original certificate can be used for the return if the return is within 10 days of the certificate's issuance. For separate tickets or longer trips, a new certificate is needed. The certificate must confirm your pet is free of infectious diseases and healthy enough to fly.
Rabies Vaccination: Your dog must have current rabies vaccination. Provide a copy of the rabies vaccination certificate, signed by a licensed veterinarian.
Breed Verification Form: American Airlines also requires a breed verification form for all dogs and cats, signed by a licensed veterinarian, confirming your pet's breed (or predominant breed if mixed). This helps ensure your pet isn't on the restricted breed list.
International Travel: If you're traveling internationally, the requirements are far more extensive. You must research the specific entry requirements for your destination country well in advance. This often includes additional vaccinations, parasite treatments, import permits, and potentially a longer validity period for health certificates. The USDA APHIS website is an excellent resource for international pet travel.
Sub-heading: Acclimation Letter (for Cargo Travel, if applicable)
If you're flying during colder temperatures (between 20°F and 45°F), an acclimation letter from your veterinarian stating your pet is acclimated to these temperatures might be required to waive the temperature embargo.
Sub-heading: Kennel Preparation
Familiarization: Start acclimating your dog to their carrier/kennel well before your travel date. Make it a comfortable and positive space by putting their favorite toys, blankets, and treats inside.
Labeling: Clearly label the kennel with "Live Animal," your name, contact information, and your destination address.
Food and Water: Attach empty food and water dishes to the inside of the kennel door, accessible from the outside. For cargo, tape a clear bag of food to the top of the kennel with feeding instructions.
Absorbent Material: Place absorbent bedding (blankets, towels) at the bottom of the carrier. Straw, hay, or wood shavings are not permitted.
Step 3: Make Your Reservation
This is where you secure your dog's spot on the flight.
Sub-heading: Booking In-Cabin Pet Travel
Book Your Own Flight First: Purchase your human ticket first.
Add Your Pet: After booking your flight, you can add your carry-on pet online through "Manage Trip" on aa.com or the American Airlines app in the "Additional Services" section. If you encounter issues or prefer to speak with someone, call American Airlines Reservations.
Pay the Fee: The fee for a carry-on pet is $150 per kennel, each way. This fee is non-refundable.
Sub-heading: Booking Cargo Pet Travel (PetEmbark)
Separate Booking: Pet cargo is booked separately from your passenger ticket.
Contact American Airlines Cargo: For general public cargo shipments, you'll need to contact American Airlines Cargo directly or use their PetEmbark online booking portal (if your shipment qualifies for online booking). You may need to work with a specialized pet shipper.
Advance Notice: Reservations for pet cargo are generally recommended to be made between 1 and 10 days prior to departure (or up to 30 days for some international destinations like London Heathrow). For bookings less than 10 days out, you might need to call them directly.
Fees: Cargo fees vary depending on the region, weight, and size of the kennel. These fees will be confirmed at the time of booking. Active-duty U.S. Military and State Department Foreign Service personnel may receive discounted rates.
Step 4: Pre-Travel Checklist and Day of Travel
The day of travel can be stressful, so being prepared is key.
Sub-heading: The Day Before
Final Vet Check (if needed): Double-check all documentation, especially health certificates, to ensure they are within the required timeframe.
Hydration: Ensure your dog is well-hydrated.
Light Meal: Give your dog a light meal approximately 4-6 hours before departure.
Exercise: Provide plenty of exercise to tire them out before the flight. A tired dog is a calm dog.
Sub-heading: At the Airport
Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight (at least 2-3 hours for in-cabin, and even earlier for cargo, often 2-4 hours before your flight). This allows ample time for check-in and any unforeseen issues.
Check-in:
In-Cabin: You must check in at the American Airlines ticket counter. You cannot check in curbside with a pet. An agent will verify your pet and carrier meet the requirements.
Cargo: For checked pets (military/foreign service personnel), you will also check in at the ticket counter. For general cargo shipments, you will drop off your pet at the American Airlines Cargo facility.
Avoid Sedation: American Airlines, as recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), does not accept sedated or tranquilized pets. Sedation can have adverse effects on an animal's cardiovascular and respiratory systems at altitude.
Potty Break: Take your dog for a final potty break before heading to security or the cargo facility. Many airports have designated pet relief areas.
Security Check: For in-cabin pets, you'll need to remove your dog from their carrier and carry them through the security checkpoint. The empty carrier will go through the X-ray machine.
Step 5: During the Flight
Once you're on board, there are rules to follow to ensure a comfortable journey for everyone.
Sub-heading: In-Cabin Pets
Under the Seat: Your pet carrier must remain stowed under the seat in front of you for the entire duration of the flight, including boarding and deplaning.
No Removal: You are not permitted to remove your dog from the carrier at any point during the flight.
Quiet and Calm: Ensure your dog remains quiet and does not cause a disturbance to other passengers.
Sub-heading: Cargo Pets
Monitoring: While you won't be with your pet, American Airlines Cargo staff are trained to monitor the animals in the climate-controlled cargo hold.
Tracking: You can often track your pet's journey online using their airway bill number through the American Airlines Cargo website.
Step 6: Arrival and Reunion
The final stretch!
Sub-heading: In-Cabin Pets
Deplaning: Once the aircraft has arrived at the gate and it's safe to move, you can retrieve your carrier from under the seat.
Potty Break: Head directly to a pet relief area once you've exited the plane and cleared the terminal.
Sub-heading: Cargo Pets
Pickup Location: Pets traveling as cargo are typically available for pick-up at the American Airlines Cargo facility, usually about an hour after the flight's arrival. Confirm the exact pickup location and hours.
Documentation: Have your identification and airway bill number ready for pickup.
Customs (International): If arriving internationally, allow extra time to clear customs for your pet.
Important Considerations:
Weather Conditions: Seriously heed the temperature restrictions. Airlines will deny boarding for pets if temperatures are too high or too low, as it can be dangerous for the animal. Have a backup plan in case of weather-related cancellations.
Sedation is a No-Go: Reiterate this point. It's for your dog's safety.
Book Direct: Always book pet travel directly through American Airlines or American Airlines Cargo. Avoid third-party booking sites for pet travel as they may not have the most up-to-date information or direct access to airline systems.
Stay Updated: Airline policies can change. Always check American Airlines' official pet policy page on their website before every trip to ensure you have the most current information.
Patience and Flexibility: Travel with pets can sometimes involve unexpected delays or challenges. Being patient and flexible will make the experience smoother for both you and your dog.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to prepare my dog for a flight on American Airlines?
Prepare your dog by familiarizing them with their carrier, ensuring they are well-exercised before travel, giving them a light meal a few hours prior, and getting all required health certificates and vaccinations from your vet within the valid timeframe.
How to choose the right carrier size for my dog on American Airlines?
For in-cabin travel, choose a carrier (soft-sided recommended) that fits under the seat in front of you (approx. 18" L x 11" W x 11" H) and allows your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For cargo, consult American Airlines Cargo's kennel guidelines for specific dimensions and construction requirements.
How to book my dog as a carry-on pet on American Airlines?
After booking your own flight, you can typically add your carry-on pet through the "Manage Trip" section on aa.com or the American Airlines app, or by calling American Airlines Reservations. Be prepared to pay the $150 fee per kennel, each way.
How to understand American Airlines' restricted dog breeds for flying?
American Airlines restricts certain brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dog breeds from flying due to respiratory risks. Always check the official American Airlines website's pet policy for the most current list of restricted breeds before making travel plans.
How to know if my dog needs a health certificate for American Airlines travel?
Yes, all dogs traveling on American Airlines, whether in-cabin or cargo, require a health certificate issued and signed by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of your travel date.
How to manage my dog's anxiety during the flight on American Airlines?
Ensure your dog is comfortable in their carrier, provide familiar scents (like a favorite blanket), and consult your vet about natural calming aids if needed. American Airlines does not permit sedated or tranquilized pets.
How to deal with temperature restrictions for dog travel on American Airlines?
American Airlines has temperature embargoes for cargo (and sometimes carry-on) travel. If temperatures are forecasted to be too high (above 85°F) or too low (below 45°F, with some waivers down to 20°F with a vet letter), your dog may not be able to fly. Always check weather forecasts and have a backup plan.
How to track my dog when they fly as cargo on American Airlines?
If your dog travels as cargo through American Airlines Cargo's PetEmbark, you can typically track their journey online using the airway bill number provided during booking and drop-off.
How to differentiate between service animals and emotional support animals on American Airlines?
American Airlines, in line with DOT regulations, only recognizes trained service dogs (individually trained to perform tasks for a disability) as service animals, which fly free. Emotional support animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized as service animals and must travel as pets with applicable fees and restrictions.
How to ensure a smooth check-in process with my dog on American Airlines?
Arrive early at the airport (at least 2-3 hours for in-cabin, 2-4 hours for cargo). Have all required documentation (health certificate, vaccination records, breed verification) readily available. Remember to check in at the ticket counter, not curbside.
