Bringing your beloved pet along on your American Airlines flight can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and adherence to specific guidelines. American Airlines offers different options for pet travel: in the cabin (for small pets), as checked baggage (for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel on official orders only), or as cargo. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step to ensure a smooth journey for your furry friend.
Embarking on a Pet-Friendly Journey: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Pet to Your American Airlines Flight
Hello, fellow pet parent! Are you ready to embark on an adventure with your cherished companion? Planning a trip with your pet can feel overwhelming, but with American Airlines, it's certainly achievable. Let's break down the process into easy, manageable steps.
Step 1: Determine Your Pet's Eligibility & Travel Method
This is the absolute first and most crucial step. American Airlines has strict rules about which pets can travel and how. Understanding these rules from the outset will save you a lot of time and potential heartache.
Sub-heading: In-Cabin Travel (Carry-on Pet)
Who is eligible? Small dogs and cats are generally eligible to travel in the cabin. They must be at least 8 weeks old and weaned.
Weight & Size Restrictions: Your pet and its carrier combined must typically weigh no more than 20 lbs (9.07 kg). The carrier itself must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. American Airlines recommends soft-sided carriers for more flexibility.
Soft-sided carrier dimensions (recommended for all flights): 18 x 11 x 11 inches (46 x 28 x 28 cm)
Hard-sided carrier dimensions (American Mainline flights): 19 x 13 x 9 inches (48 x 33 x 22 cm)
Hard-sided carrier dimensions (American Eagle flights): 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Important Note: Your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier without any part of their body touching or sticking out.
Number of Pets: Generally, one pet carrier per customer is allowed. However, two pets of the same species (two cats or two dogs), between 8 weeks and 6 months old, and each weighing less than 20 lbs (9.07 kg), may be allowed in a single carrier if they fit comfortably.
Aircraft Restrictions: Not all aircraft types can accommodate pets in the cabin due to varying under-seat dimensions. It's essential to check with American Airlines Reservations to verify that your specific flight's aircraft type can accommodate your pet's carrier. Certain aircraft, like some Airbus A319, A320, and A321 models (excluding specific JFK/LAX/SFO routes), may not be equipped for pet travel.
Booking Limit: There's a maximum number of pets allowed per cabin, which varies by aircraft type. It's highly recommended to book your pet's space as early as possible after booking your own ticket, as space is limited.
Sub-heading: Checked Baggage (for Eligible Personnel Only)
Strict Limitations: 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. This option is not available for general travelers.
Requirements: If you fall into this category, you'll need to contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel, check in at the ticket counter with your official orders, allow extra check-in time (2-4 hours before your flight), and complete a checklist with an agent. A health certificate is also required.
Sub-heading: Cargo Travel (American Airlines Cargo / PetEmbark)
For Larger Pets & International Travel: If your pet is too large to fit in the cabin, or if you're traveling internationally (outside of specific carry-on exceptions), your pet will likely need to travel via American Airlines Cargo, often referred to as "PetEmbark."
Weight & Kennel Restrictions: Pets and their kennels combined can typically weigh up to 100 lbs (45 kg) for domestic travel as Priority Parcel Service (PPS). For larger pets or international travel, they may fall under ExpediteFS. Kennels must be IATA-approved, rigid, well-ventilated, leak-proof, and secure. They must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie comfortably. All wheels must be removed or inoperable.
Breed Restrictions: American Airlines Cargo has breed restrictions, especially for brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds of dogs and cats (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) due to respiratory risks, and historically aggressive breeds. Always check their specific list.
Temperature Restrictions: This is a major factor for cargo travel. American Airlines will NOT transport warm-blooded animals when ground temperatures (at origin, connection, and destination cities) are higher than 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees Celsius) or less than 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 degrees Celsius). If temperatures are between 20 and 44 degrees Fahrenheit, a veterinarian-signed acclimation letter is required. Be prepared for potential re-routing or delays if temperatures are outside the acceptable range.
Booking Cargo: Cargo bookings are separate from your passenger ticket. You can generally book up to 10 days in advance online via
aacargo.com/AACargo/ua/forms/pet
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation & Health Requirements
Preparation is key to a stress-free travel experience for both you and your pet. This step involves a visit to your veterinarian and ensuring all paperwork is in order.
Sub-heading: Health Certificate
Mandatory Requirement: For all pet travel (in-cabin, checked, or cargo), a health certificate is generally required.
Issuance: This certificate must be issued by a licensed veterinarian within specific timeframes:
Within 10 days of your initial travel date.
Within 60 days of your return (if traveling on the same ticket).
Within 10 days of your return (if traveling on a separate ticket).
Content: The health certificate must state that your pet is fit for air travel and free of infectious diseases. For international travel, it often requires endorsement by the USDA.
Pro Tip: Discuss your travel plans with your vet well in advance. They can advise on specific vaccinations, tests, or treatments your pet may need for your destination, especially for international travel where requirements can be complex (e.g., rabies titer tests for some EU countries).
Sub-heading: Vaccination Records
Rabies Vaccination: Your pet must be up-to-date on its rabies vaccination. The certificate should be securely attached to the outside of the kennel for cargo travel.
Other Vaccinations: Depending on your destination, other vaccinations might be required. Always check the specific entry requirements for your destination state or country.
Sub-heading: Other Potential Forms
Customer Acknowledgement Form: American Airlines may require you to complete a Customer Acknowledgment Form, especially for cargo travel, confirming your understanding of the risks and responsibilities.
Acclimation Letter: If temperatures at any point of your pet's journey (origin, connection, destination) are forecasted to be between 20 and 44 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 to 7.2 degrees Celsius), you'll need a letter of acclimation from your veterinarian stating the exact lowest temperature your pet can be exposed to.
Breed Verification Form: For certain breeds, especially those with restrictions, American Airlines might request a breed verification form from your veterinarian.
USDA Endorsement (for International Travel): Many countries require health certificates to be endorsed by the USDA. This process can take time, so factor it into your planning. The APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) website is an excellent resource for international pet travel requirements.
Step 3: Choose and Prepare the Right Pet Carrier
Your pet's comfort and safety largely depend on the carrier you select and how you prepare it.
Sub-heading: Carrier Type & Size
In-Cabin: As mentioned in Step 1, soft-sided carriers are generally preferred for in-cabin travel due to their flexibility in fitting under the seat. Ensure it's secure, padded, made of water-repellent material, and has nylon mesh ventilation on at least three sides.
Cargo: For cargo, a hard-sided, IATA-compliant kennel is mandatory. It must be escape-proof, made of rigid plastic, metal, or wood, with a metal grated door. Ventilation on at least three sides for domestic and four sides for international flights is essential. The kennel door must be made of metal and secured with metal nuts, bolts, or screws (snap closure kennels only accepted if reinforced).
Sub-heading: Comfort & Labeling
Absorbent Bedding: Place absorbent material like blankets or towels at the bottom of the carrier. Avoid hay, wood shavings, or straw.
Food & Water Dishes: Attach two empty food and water dishes to the inside of the kennel, accessible without opening the door.
Identification: Securely attach a "Live Animal" label to the carrier. Include your name, address, phone number, and destination contact information. Attach a copy of your pet's health certificate and rabies vaccination record to the outside of the kennel in a waterproof pouch.
"Feed and Water Instructions": For cargo, you must provide written certification, securely and visibly attached to the outside of the kennel, stating that your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours before drop-off, along with the specific time and your signature.
Step 4: Book Your Pet's Travel
This step is critical for securing a spot for your pet, as space is limited.
Sub-heading: In-Cabin Pet Booking
Online Booking: For carry-on pets, American Airlines allows you to add your pet to your existing trip online via aa.com or the American Airlines app. Look for the "Add carry-on pets" option in the "Additional Services" section.
Follow Prompts: Review and agree to the requirements, select the flights for your pet, and confirm to complete the changes.
Fee: Be prepared to pay the non-refundable carry-on pet fee, which is typically $150 per kennel for travel within and between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Sub-heading: Cargo Pet Booking
Separate Booking: Remember, cargo pet bookings are separate from your passenger ticket.
Contact American Airlines Cargo (PetEmbark):
For bookings up to 10 days prior to departure, you can book online at
aacargo.com/AACargo/ua/forms/pet For bookings less than 10 days prior to departure, call their dedicated animal desk at 1-800-227-4622.
Provide Details: Be ready to provide your pet's breed, weight, kennel dimensions, and your itinerary details.
Fees: Cargo fees vary depending on the region and the size/weight of your pet. Fees will be confirmed at the time of booking. Active military personnel may receive a discount.
Step 5: Day of Travel Preparation & Airport Procedures
The big day! Careful attention to detail on travel day will make a big difference.
Sub-heading: Before Heading to the Airport
Acclimate Your Pet: If your pet is traveling in a carrier, try to get them accustomed to it in the days leading up to the flight. Make it a positive space with treats and familiar toys.
Exercise Your Pet: Give your pet plenty of exercise and a chance to relieve themselves before arriving at the airport. A tired pet is generally a calmer pet.
Limit Food & Water: While you must offer water within 4 hours of drop-off (for cargo), consider limiting food a few hours before travel to prevent upset stomachs. Consult your vet on this.
Medication (Use with Caution): Do NOT sedate your pet unless specifically advised and prescribed by your veterinarian. Sedation can have adverse effects on pets at altitude.
Packing Essentials: Bring a leash, collar, small bag of food, a familiar blanket or toy, and any necessary medications.
Sub-heading: At the Airport
Arrive Early:
In-Cabin Pets: Arrive at the airport with ample time, typically 2-3 hours before your flight, especially since you'll need to go to the ticket counter.
Cargo Pets: For cargo, you'll need to drop off your pet at the American Airlines Cargo facility, typically 4 to 6 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. Confirm the exact drop-off window with cargo staff.
Ticket Counter Check-in: You cannot check in a pet at curbside. You must go to the main ticket counter for in-cabin pets or the Cargo facility for cargo pets.
Final Checks: An American Airlines agent will verify your documentation, carrier size, and your pet's well-being.
Security: For in-cabin pets, you will need to remove your pet from its carrier at the security checkpoint and carry it through the metal detector. The empty carrier will go through the X-ray machine.
Sub-heading: During the Flight
In-Cabin Pets: Your pet must remain in its carrier under the seat in front of you for the entire duration of the flight, including boarding and deplaning. You are not allowed to open the carrier or take your pet out.
Cargo Pets: American Airlines Cargo staff are trained in animal handling. They monitor temperature conditions and provide comfort stops for longer layovers, including watering and feeding if necessary. You can track your pet's journey using the air waybill number provided at booking.
Step 6: Arrival at Your Destination
The journey isn't over until your pet is safely with you.
Sub-heading: In-Cabin Pets
Simply retrieve your pet from under the seat and exit the aircraft as usual.
Sub-heading: Cargo Pets
Pick-up: You will need to pick up your pet at the American Airlines Cargo facility at your destination airport.
Identification: Be prepared to show identification and your air waybill number.
Customs & Quarantine: For international arrivals, be aware of and prepared for any customs or quarantine procedures for your pet. This can involve additional paperwork or inspections.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to choose the right pet carrier for an American Airlines flight?
Choose a carrier that is IATA-compliant, large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For in-cabin travel, soft-sided carriers are recommended to fit under the seat, while cargo requires a hard-sided, well-ventilated carrier.
How to ensure my pet is comfortable during the flight?
Acclimate your pet to its carrier beforehand, provide absorbent bedding, attach empty food/water dishes, and ensure they have ample exercise before the flight. Avoid sedating your pet unless specifically advised by a vet.
How to find out if my pet's breed is restricted by American Airlines?
Check the American Airlines Cargo website (aacargo.com) under "Policies & Restrictions - Pets & Animals" for a detailed list of restricted brachycephalic (snub-nosed) and aggressive breeds. You can also email PetEmbark@aa.com or call 1-800-227-4622.
How to get a health certificate for my pet for an American Airlines flight?
Schedule an appointment with your licensed veterinarian within 10 days of your travel date (or within specific return windows) to obtain a health certificate stating your pet is fit for air travel.
How to track my pet if it's traveling via American Airlines Cargo?
Once you book your pet's cargo travel, you'll receive an air waybill number. You can use this number on the American Airlines Cargo website's online tracking tool or call their 24-hour animal desk at 1-800-227-4622 for updates.
How to handle temperature restrictions for pet cargo on American Airlines?
Be aware that American Airlines will not transport pets if ground temperatures (at origin, connection, or destination) are above 85°F (29.4°C) or below 20°F (-6.6°C). For temperatures between 20°F and 44°F, a veterinarian-signed acclimation letter is required. Monitor forecasts closely and be prepared for potential delays or re-routing.
How to add an in-cabin pet to an existing American Airlines booking?
You can add a carry-on pet to your trip online via aa.com or the American Airlines app by finding your trip and selecting "Add carry-on pets" in the "Additional Services" section.
How to pay for my pet's travel on American Airlines?
For in-cabin pets, you pay the $150 fee when adding the pet to your booking online or at the ticket counter. For cargo pets, fees vary and are confirmed at the time of booking, payable at the Cargo terminal at drop-off.
How to contact American Airlines for specific pet travel questions?
For general pet travel inquiries, check the "Pets − Travel information" section on aa.com. For detailed cargo-related questions, email PetEmbark@aa.com or call their dedicated animal desk at 1-800-227-4622.
How to prepare my pet for security screening at the airport?
If your pet is traveling in the cabin, you will need to remove your pet from its carrier at the security checkpoint and carry it through the metal detector. The empty carrier will be sent through the X-ray machine.