Traveling with your beloved pet can be an enriching experience, but it requires meticulous planning, especially when flying with an airline like American Airlines. Their policies are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers, including our furry friends. So, if you're wondering how to add a pet on American Airlines, you've come to the right place!
Let's dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step guide that will help you navigate American Airlines' pet policy with ease.
Step 1: Are You and Your Pet Ready to Fly? (Engage!)
Before you even think about booking that ticket, let's address the most crucial question: Is your pet truly a good candidate for air travel? This isn't just about airline rules; it's about your pet's well-being.
Consider your pet's personality: Is your dog generally calm or prone to anxiety in new environments? Does your cat easily adapt to confinement? An anxious pet will find flying incredibly stressful.
Consult your veterinarian: This is non-negotiable. Your vet can assess your pet's health, discuss potential risks of air travel (especially for brachycephalic or "snub-nosed" breeds), and advise on any necessary vaccinations or health certificates. They might even recommend against air travel if your pet has pre-existing conditions.
Acclimate your pet to their carrier: This is a huge stress reducer. Start weeks, even months, in advance. Make the carrier a comfortable, positive space. Leave it open in your home, put treats and toys inside, and gradually increase the time your pet spends in it.
Take a moment to reflect: Based on these points, do you feel your pet is genuinely prepared for the journey ahead? If so, excellent! Let's move on.
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| How To Add A Pet On American Airlines |
Step 2: Understand American Airlines' Pet Policy – In-Cabin vs. Cargo
American Airlines offers two primary ways for pets to travel: in the cabin with you or as checked cargo. The option available depends heavily on your pet's size, breed, and the destination.
Sub-heading 2.1: In-Cabin Travel (Carry-on Pets)
This is generally the preferred method for smaller pets as they can be with you throughout the flight.
Eligible Pets: Only small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin. They must be able to fit comfortably in an approved carrier that stows under the seat in front of you.
Carrier Requirements:
Hard-sided carriers: Maximum dimensions are typically 19 x 13 x 9 inches (48 x 33 x 22 cm) for American Mainline flights and 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm) for American Eagle flights.
Soft-sided carriers: Maximum dimensions are usually 18 x 11 x 11 inches (46 x 28 x 28 cm). Soft-sided carriers are generally recommended as they offer more flexibility.
Crucially, your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally in the carrier. The carrier must have a waterproof bottom, adequate ventilation (at least three sides for domestic, four for international), and secure fasteners.
The pet must remain completely inside the carrier at all times while in the airport and on the aircraft.
Weight Limit: The combined weight of your pet and the carrier generally should not exceed 20 pounds (9.07 kg).
Fees: As of late 2024/early 2025, the fee for a carry-on pet on American Airlines is typically $150 per kennel, each way. This fee is separate from your baggage allowance, meaning the pet carrier does not count as your personal item or standard carry-on.
Availability: Space for in-cabin pets is limited (usually 7 carriers on American Airlines mainline flights and 5 on American Eagle flights). It's crucial to reserve your pet's spot as early as possible.
Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel.
Health Certificate: Generally, a health certificate is not required for pets traveling in the cabin on flights within the United States, but it's always wise to check for your specific destination.
Sub-heading 2.2: Cargo Travel (Checked Pets via American Airlines Cargo)
For larger pets or if your pet doesn't meet the in-cabin requirements, American Airlines Cargo is the alternative. This is a separate service for shipping live animals.
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
Eligible Pets: Dogs, cats, and some other warm-blooded animals are accepted. Cold-blooded animals are also transported under specific IATA regulations.
Breed Restrictions: American Airlines has restrictions on certain brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds of dogs and cats due to their respiratory issues, as well as historically aggressive breeds. Always check the most current restricted breed list on the American Airlines Cargo website.
Temperature Restrictions: American Airlines Cargo has strict temperature guidelines. Generally, pets will not be transported if ground temperatures are below 45°F (7°C) or above 85°F (29°C) at any point in the itinerary (origin, connection, destination). If temperatures are between 20°F and 44°F, an acclimation letter from your vet is required. They will not transport if temperatures are below 20°F.
Kennel Requirements: Kennels must meet IATA (International Air Transport Association) Live Animal Regulations. This means they must be:
Large enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Well-ventilated with adequate openings on at least four sides.
Made of a sturdy material (wood, metal, or plastic).
Equipped with food and water dishes accessible from the outside.
Clearly labeled with "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers, your name, address, and phone number.
Booking: Cargo bookings are handled separately and generally need to be made between 1 and 10 days before travel (up to 30 days for inbound flights to London Heathrow). You'll typically work with a pet shipper or agent for this.
Fees: Cargo fees are significantly higher and vary based on the size of the kennel and the routing. You'll need to get a specific quote from American Airlines Cargo.
Health Certificates & Documentation: A comprehensive health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, proof of rabies vaccination, and all necessary forms for your destination country are always required for cargo travel.
Step 3: Making the Reservation – The Earlier, The Better!
This is where the rubber meets the road. Do not wait until the last minute!
Sub-heading 3.1: Booking a New Flight with a Pet
If you haven't booked your flight yet, this is the ideal scenario.
Call American Airlines Reservations: While some airlines allow you to add a pet online during the booking process, American Airlines often requires you to call to confirm availability and add your pet. This is crucial due to the limited space for in-cabin pets. Have your desired flight dates and times ready.
Inform the Agent: Clearly state that you intend to travel with a pet in the cabin (or as cargo, if applicable). They will check availability on your specific flight.
Provide Pet Details: Be ready to provide your pet's breed, weight, and carrier dimensions.
Receive Confirmation and Pay Fee: Once space is confirmed, the agent will guide you through the process of adding your pet to your reservation and collecting the pet fee.
Sub-heading 3.2: Adding a Pet to an Existing Reservation
If you've already booked your flight, don't worry, you can still add your pet!
Access Your Trip on AA.com or the American App: Log in and find your existing reservation.
Look for "Add Carry-on Pets" (or similar): In the "Additional Services" section, there might be an option to add a carry-on pet.
Review Requirements and Select Flights: You'll be prompted to review the carry-on pet requirements and select the specific flights your pet will travel on.
*Crucially, if the online option isn't available or you need cargo services, CALL American Airlines Reservations immediately. This is the most reliable way to confirm availability and complete the process. Explain that you need to add a pet to an existing reservation.
Step 4: Gathering Required Documents and Preparing Your Pet
Preparation is key to a smooth travel day for both you and your pet.
Sub-heading 4.1: Essential Documentation
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
Health Certificate (for international or certain domestic travel/cargo): Issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of your travel (and potentially within 60 days of your return for same-ticket travel). This certificate verifies your pet is healthy for travel and free of communicable diseases.
Rabies Vaccination Proof: Necessary for most travel.
Acclimation Letter (for cargo in certain temperatures): If temperatures are between 20°F and 44°F, a veterinarian-signed letter stating the lowest temperature your pet can be exposed to.
Destination-Specific Forms: This is critical for international travel. Many countries have specific import requirements, including additional vaccinations, microchip requirements, import permits, and quarantine periods. Research these well in advance on the embassy/consulate website of your destination country or through the USDA APHIS website if traveling from the U.S.
Identification: Ensure your pet's collar has up-to-date ID tags with your contact information. Place a similar label on the carrier as well, along with a photo of your pet.
Sub-heading 4.2: Preparing Your Pet for the Journey
Crate Training Reinforcement: Continue to make the carrier a positive, safe space.
Exercise Before Travel: Give your pet ample exercise before heading to the airport to help them relax.
Limited Food/Water: Offer a light meal 4-6 hours before travel to prevent an upset stomach. Provide water sparingly to avoid accidents, but ensure they don't dehydrate. You can offer ice chips in the carrier water bowl just before boarding.
Avoid Sedation (unless vet-approved): American Airlines, like many airlines, generally advises against sedating pets due to potential respiratory and cardiovascular problems at altitude. If your vet recommends it, get explicit instructions.
Potty Breaks: Ensure your pet has ample opportunities to relieve themselves before entering the airport and just before boarding. Look for designated pet relief areas at the airport.
Familiar Items: Place a favorite toy, a comfort blanket, or an old t-shirt with your scent in the carrier to provide comfort.
Step 5: Airport Day and Check-in
The big day! Arrive early to allow plenty of time for the pet check-in process.
Sub-heading 5.1: Check-in Process
Proceed to the Ticket Counter: You cannot use curbside or self-service check-in with a pet. You must check in at the airline's main ticket counter.
Present Documents: Have all your pet's documentation ready for inspection.
Carrier Inspection: The airline agent will likely inspect your pet's carrier to ensure it meets all requirements and that your pet fits comfortably.
Final Payment (if not done previously): Confirm and pay the pet fee.
Security (for in-cabin pets): For in-cabin pets, you'll need to remove your pet from the carrier and carry them through the security checkpoint. The empty carrier will go through the X-ray machine.
Sub-heading 5.2: During Layovers and Boarding
Layovers: If you have a layover, consider the length. If it's long enough, try to find a pet relief area for your pet to stretch their legs and use the bathroom.
Boarding: Once on the plane, immediately stow your pet's carrier under the seat in front of you. Ensure it's not blocking the aisle. Remember, your pet must remain in their carrier for the entire flight.
Step 6: Arrival and Reunion
The best part of the journey!
In-Cabin Pets: Once the plane has landed and it's safe to move, you can retrieve your pet's carrier. Do not take your pet out until you are in a designated pet-friendly area or outside the airport.
Cargo Pets: Pick-up times vary but are typically an hour or so after the flight arrives. Head to the American Airlines Cargo facility at your destination airport. Have your air waybill number and identification ready. If traveling internationally, allow extra time for customs clearance.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the stress associated with flying with your pet on American Airlines. Remember, patience and thorough preparation are your best allies!
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to choose the right carrier size for my pet on American Airlines?
The carrier must allow your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally. For hard-sided carriers on American Mainline, the maximum is 19x13x9 inches, and for soft-sided, it's 18x11x11 inches. Always measure your pet and the carrier carefully.
How to add a pet to an existing American Airlines reservation online?
You can try accessing your trip on aa.com or the American Airlines app and looking for an "Add carry-on pets" option in the "Additional Services" section. However, it's often more reliable to call American Airlines Reservations directly to confirm availability and process the addition.
How to calculate the cost of flying my pet on American Airlines?
For in-cabin pets, the fee is typically $150 per kennel, each way. For cargo pets, the cost varies significantly based on kennel size and routing; you'll need to get a quote from American Airlines Cargo.
How to confirm if my flight allows pets on American Airlines?
The most accurate way is to call American Airlines Reservations directly. They can check the specific aircraft type and confirm if there is available space for pets on your desired flight.
Tip: Focus on sections most relevant to you.
How to prepare my pet for a long flight on American Airlines?
Acclimate your pet to their carrier well in advance, provide ample exercise before the flight, offer a light meal several hours prior, and avoid sedation unless explicitly recommended by your vet. Pack familiar items in the carrier to provide comfort.
How to ensure my pet's comfort during an American Airlines flight?
Beyond proper carrier acclimation and pre-flight exercise, try to keep a calm demeanor, as pets can sense your stress. Ensure the carrier has familiar scents (a blanket, toy, or your t-shirt). Do not open the carrier during the flight.
How to obtain the necessary health certificate for my pet to fly on American Airlines?
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. They will examine your pet and issue a health certificate, typically within 10 days of travel, confirming your pet is healthy and has all required vaccinations.
How to check for breed restrictions on American Airlines for pet travel?
American Airlines has a list of restricted brachycephalic (snub-nosed) and historically aggressive breeds that are not accepted for cargo travel. You must check the most current list on the American Airlines Cargo website before planning your trip.
How to find pet relief areas at the airport when traveling with American Airlines?
Most major airports have designated pet relief areas, often located outside the terminal or sometimes within the secure area. Check the airport's website or ask airline staff upon arrival for directions.
How to handle potential temperature restrictions for pet cargo travel on American Airlines?
Monitor the forecasted temperatures at your origin, connection points, and destination. If temperatures fall outside the acceptable range (typically 45-85°F), American Airlines Cargo may refuse transport. If temperatures are between 20-44°F, an acclimation letter from your vet is mandatory.
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