So, you're planning a trip and want to bring your furry best friend along on an American Airlines flight? That's fantastic! Traveling with your dog can create unforgettable memories, 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 to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your canine companion.
Ready to embark on this adventure with your dog? Let's dive in!
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| How To Add Dog To American Airlines Flight |
Step 1: Understanding American Airlines' Pet Policy – Is Your Dog Eligible?
Before you even think about booking, the absolute first thing you need to do is understand American Airlines' comprehensive pet policy. Not all dogs, or even all flights, are eligible for pet travel. This initial assessment is crucial to avoid disappointment later.
Sub-heading: In-Cabin vs. Cargo: Where Will Your Dog Fly?
American Airlines offers two primary options for pet travel:
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In-Cabin (Carry-on Pets): This is generally preferred for smaller dogs, as they can travel with you in the main cabin.
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Eligibility: Your dog must be small enough to fit comfortably in an approved carrier that stows under the seat in front of you. The combined weight of your pet and carrier typically cannot exceed 20 lbs (9.07 kg).
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Carrier Dimensions: American Airlines has specific dimensions for in-cabin carriers. For soft-sided carriers (highly recommended), the maximum dimensions are generally 18 x 11 x 11 inches (46 x 28 x 28 centimeters). For hard-sided carriers, dimensions vary by aircraft type (e.g., American Mainline flights: 19 x 13 x 9 inches; American Eagle flights: 16 x 12 x 8 inches). Always double-check the latest dimensions on the American Airlines website or by calling reservations, as they can vary by aircraft.
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Restrictions: Only a limited number of carry-on pets are allowed per flight (e.g., seven per American Airlines flight, five on American Eagle flights), on a first-come, first-served basis. Your pet must remain in the carrier with the door closed and zipped at all times while in the airport and on the aircraft. Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel.
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Cargo (American Airlines Cargo / PetEmbark): For larger dogs or if your dog doesn't meet the in-cabin requirements, they may travel via American Airlines Cargo, often referred to as PetEmbark.
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Eligibility: Dogs that are too large for in-cabin travel, or those traveling internationally to certain destinations, will likely need to go as cargo.
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Weight & Kennel Restrictions: Your dog and its kennel must meet specific size and weight requirements, with a combined weight typically not exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) for domestic flights. The kennel must be IATA-compliant, escape-proof, well-ventilated (at least three sides for domestic, four for international), and have proper food and water dishes accessible from the outside. Wheels must be inoperable or removed.
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Temperature Restrictions: American Airlines Cargo has strict temperature restrictions for animal transport. They generally will not transport warm-blooded animals when ground temperatures (at origin, connection, and destination) are outside the range of 45°F (7.2°C) and 85°F (29.4°C). If temperatures are between 20°F and 44°F (-6.6°C and 6.6°C), a veterinarian-signed acclimation letter is required. They will not transport if temperatures are below 20°F or above 85°F, even with an acclimation letter.
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Breed Restrictions: American Airlines has a list of brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds and historically aggressive breeds that are not accepted for travel due to health risks. This includes breeds like Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, and certain bulldog and pug breeds. Always check the restricted breeds list before making plans.
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Age Requirements: Dogs must typically be at least 8 weeks old to travel domestically.
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Comfort Stops: For longer itineraries (e.g., first leg 7+ hours with connection, connection time 7+ hours, itinerary longer than 24 hours), comfort stops where your pet can eat, drink, and stretch may be required.
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Sub-heading: Service Animals
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Service Dogs: Fully trained service dogs (dogs specifically trained to perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability) are permitted to fly in the cabin at no charge, provided they meet American Airlines' requirements. This generally means they must fit at your feet or on your lap if smaller than a 2-year-old child, without blocking aisles or exit rows. You will need to complete a U.S. DOT form attesting to the animal's health, behavior, and training, submitted at least 48 hours in advance.
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Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): As of February 1, 2021, American Airlines, in line with new U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, no longer recognizes Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals. ESAs are now considered pets and are subject to all applicable pet fees and restrictions (in-cabin or cargo, depending on size and breed).
Step 2: Preparing Your Dog and Documentation
Once you've confirmed your dog's eligibility, it's time to get them ready for their journey. This involves veterinary visits, proper documentation, and acclimating them to their travel kennel.
QuickTip: Don’t just consume — reflect.
Sub-heading: Veterinary Check-up and Health Certificate
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Visit Your Vet: Schedule a visit with your veterinarian well in advance of your travel date. Discuss your travel plans, including the mode of transport (in-cabin or cargo), to ensure your dog is fit to fly.
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Health Certificate: For all pets traveling as checked baggage (for active-duty military/State Department personnel) or cargo, American Airlines requires a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.
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For domestic travel within the U.S. and Puerto Rico, the health certificate must be dated within 10 days of your travel.
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If your return trip is on the same ticket, the certificate must be valid for 60 days from your return. If on a separate ticket, it's 10 days from your return.
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Vaccinations: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on all required vaccinations, especially rabies. While American Airlines generally requires a rabies certificate, specific vaccination requirements can vary by destination (domestic vs. international). For international travel, consult the USDA-APHIS Pet Travel website and the embassy/consulate of your destination country for specific entry requirements. Common recommended vaccinations include canine parvovirus, distemper, and canine hepatitis.
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Acclimation Letter (if applicable): If you're traveling with your dog in cargo and ground temperatures are forecasted to be between 20°F and 44°F, your veterinarian must provide an acclimation letter stating the exact lowest temperature your animal can be exposed to within that range.
Sub-heading: Kennel Acclimation and Preparation
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Choose the Right Kennel: As discussed in Step 1, select a carrier that meets American Airlines' specific size and construction requirements for either in-cabin or cargo travel. Soft-sided carriers are generally recommended for in-cabin travel as they offer more flexibility. For cargo, the kennel must be sturdy (rigid plastic, metal, or wood with a metal grated door), leak-proof, and have proper ventilation.
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Acclimate Your Dog: This is crucial for your dog's comfort and reduced stress during travel.
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Start Early: Begin acclimating your dog to the kennel weeks or even months before the flight. Make it a positive experience by placing familiar toys, blankets, and treats inside.
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Positive Reinforcement: Feed your dog meals inside the kennel. Leave the door open initially, then gradually close it for short periods, increasing the duration over time.
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Comfort Items: Place an absorbent pad (like a "puppy pad" or a soft, familiar blanket) at the bottom of the kennel. Do not include any items that could pose a choking hazard, such as collars, harnesses, or leashes, inside the kennel during the flight.
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Food and Water: Attach two dishes (food and water) to the inside of the kennel, accessible from the outside without opening the door. For cargo travel, it's recommended to offer food and water to your dog within four hours of drop-off and to attach a note with the time they were last fed/watered. Do not feed your dog a large meal right before the flight.
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Identification: Securely attach clear identification to the outside of the kennel with your name, contact information, and your dog's name.
Step 3: Booking Your Flight and Adding Your Dog
This is where the rubber meets the road! American Airlines has specific procedures for adding a pet to your reservation.
Sub-heading: Booking Your Own Ticket First
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Book Your Human Ticket: Purchase your flight ticket first. It's often recommended to book direct flights if possible, especially for cargo travel, to minimize stress for your pet.
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Consider Timing: If traveling with cargo, aim for flights during cooler parts of the day in summer and warmer parts in winter, to align with the temperature restrictions mentioned earlier. Avoid peak travel times if possible.
Sub-heading: Adding Your Pet (This is Key!)
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Call American Airlines Reservations: This is the most critical step. Unlike human tickets, you cannot add a pet online. You must call American Airlines Reservations directly to add your dog to your itinerary. They will confirm availability for pet slots on your desired flight, as these are limited.
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For in-cabin pets, call as soon as possible after booking your flight, given the limited space.
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For cargo pets, contact American Airlines Cargo (PetEmbark) to discuss booking options.
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Provide Pet Details: Be prepared to provide details about your dog, including breed, weight, and carrier dimensions.
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Confirm Fees: American Airlines charges a fee for pet travel.
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Carry-on Pet Fee: Typically $150 per kennel for travel within and between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
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Checked Pet/Cargo Pet Fee: Varies by destination and other factors. Fees will be confirmed at the time of booking with American Airlines Cargo.
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Receive Confirmation: Ensure you receive a confirmation that your pet has been added to your reservation. Keep this confirmation readily available.
Step 4: Day of Travel Logistics
The day of travel requires careful execution to ensure a smooth experience for your dog.
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Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
Sub-heading: Arriving at the Airport
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Allow Extra Time: Arrive at the airport significantly earlier than you normally would.
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For in-cabin pets, allow at least 2 hours.
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For cargo pets, plan to arrive between 2 and 4 hours before your flight, as there's a more involved check-in process at the cargo facility.
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Check-in Procedures:
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In-Cabin Pets: Proceed to the ticket counter. You will pay the carry-on pet fee and receive a tag for your carrier. Your pet must remain in their carrier at all times while at the airport, including security. You will walk your pet through the security checkpoint.
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Cargo Pets: You will typically drop off your dog at the American Airlines Cargo facility, which is separate from the passenger terminal. You will need to complete a checklist with an agent and present all required documentation (health certificate, rabies vaccination, acclimation letter if needed, etc.).
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Last Minute Comfort:
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Potty Break: Take your dog for a final potty break just before heading into the airport. Look for designated pet relief areas at the airport.
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Food and Water: Offer your dog a small amount of water before check-in. Avoid giving a large meal right before the flight to prevent an upset stomach.
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Sub-heading: During the Flight
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In-Cabin Pets: Your pet carrier must remain under the seat in front of you for the entire flight. You are not permitted to remove your dog from the carrier at any time during the flight.
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Cargo Pets: American Airlines Cargo strives to ensure your pet's comfort. Animals are generally the last to be loaded onto the plane and the first to be unloaded. They are transported in a climate-controlled area of the cargo hold.
Sub-heading: Upon Arrival
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In-Cabin Pets: Once the plane lands and it's safe to do so, you can retrieve your carrier from under the seat. Remember to keep your pet in the carrier until you are in a designated pet relief area outside the terminal.
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Cargo Pets: You will pick up your dog from the American Airlines Cargo facility at your destination airport. Be prepared with your air waybill number and identification.
Step 5: Post-Flight Care and Monitoring
After the flight, your dog might be a little disoriented or stressed.
Sub-heading: Settling In
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Immediate Comfort: As soon as you can, give your dog a long drink of water and offer a small amount of food if they seem interested.
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Potty Break: Find a pet relief area as soon as possible.
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Observation: Monitor your dog closely for any signs of stress, dehydration, or illness in the hours and days following the flight. If you have any concerns, contact a local veterinarian.
Sub-heading: Re-establishing Routine
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Familiarity: Help your dog re-establish their routine as quickly as possible. Provide familiar food, water bowls, and bedding.
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Exercise and Affection: Offer plenty of opportunities for exercise and give them extra love and attention to help them adjust to their new surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
How to choose the right carrier for my dog?
Choose a carrier that allows your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For in-cabin, soft-sided carriers are often recommended due to flexibility. For cargo, it must be IATA-compliant, made of rigid material (plastic, metal, or wood), leak-proof, and have proper ventilation on at least three sides (four for international).
How to make my dog comfortable in the carrier?
Start kennel training weeks or months in advance, making the kennel a positive space with treats and toys. Place familiar bedding inside, but ensure it's not too thick (max 3 inches for cargo).
How to prepare my dog for the flight day?
Ensure your dog is well-hydrated but avoid a large meal right before. Take them for a long walk and a final potty break just before heading to the airport. Remove collars, leashes, and harnesses before placing them in the kennel for the flight.
How to check my dog's eligibility for American Airlines flight?
Refer to American Airlines' official pet policy on their website, paying close attention to in-cabin size/weight limits, cargo temperature and breed restrictions, and age requirements. Calling their reservations or cargo department is highly recommended for clarification.
How to book a flight for my dog on American Airlines?
Tip: Each paragraph has one main idea — find it.
After booking your own flight, you must call American Airlines Reservations to add your in-cabin pet or contact American Airlines Cargo (PetEmbark) for larger dogs traveling as cargo. You cannot add a pet online.
How to get a health certificate for my dog to fly?
Schedule an appointment with your licensed veterinarian within 10 days of your domestic travel date (or as otherwise specified for international travel/return trips) to obtain the required health certificate.
How to handle temperature restrictions for cargo travel?
Monitor the forecasted temperatures at your origin, connection, and destination cities. If temperatures are outside the 45°F to 85°F range, your dog may not be permitted to fly, or an acclimation letter from your vet might be required for temperatures between 20°F and 44°F.
How to know if my dog is a service animal or an ESA?
A service animal is a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability. Emotional Support Animals are no longer recognized as service animals by American Airlines and will travel as pets.
How to find pet relief areas at the airport?
Most major airports have designated pet relief areas, often located outside the terminal or sometimes inside past security. Check the airport's website or ask airport staff upon arrival.
How to ensure my dog's safety during the flight?
By adhering to all airline requirements for kennel size, ventilation, and proper preparation, and ensuring all required documentation is in order, you significantly contribute to your dog's safety and comfort during air travel.
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