Taking your beloved pet on a journey with American Airlines requires careful planning and adherence to their specific policies. While the joy of having your furry companion by your side is immeasurable, understanding the process of paying pet fees and navigating the airline's regulations is crucial for a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Let's embark on this detailed guide together!
Flying with Your Furry Friend: A Step-by-Step Guide to Paying American Airlines Pet Fees
Are you excited to travel with your pet but feeling a little overwhelmed by the airline's pet policies and fees? Don't worry, you're in the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process for paying your pet fee on American Airlines, ensuring you and your companion are ready for your adventure.
Step 1: Determine Your Pet's Eligibility and Travel Method – The First Crucial Decision!
Before you even think about paying, the very first thing you need to do is determine if and how your pet can travel with American Airlines. This is where most of the critical rules come into play, and it dictates everything from the fee to the preparation.
Sub-heading 1.1: Pet in Cabin (Carry-On)
Who is eligible? This option is generally reserved for small cats and dogs that can fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you.
Key Restrictions:
Size Matters: Your pet carrier, with your pet inside, must fit under the seat. American Airlines suggests specific dimensions, which vary slightly depending on the aircraft (e.g., 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 cm for mainline flights). Soft-sided collapsible kennels are often recommended as they offer more flexibility.
Age Requirements: Pets must generally be at least 8 weeks old to travel in the cabin.
Limited Space: There's a limited number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight (e.g., typically 7 carriers on American Airlines flights and 5 on American Eagle flights). This is why early booking is absolutely essential.
One Pet Per Carrier (with exceptions): Generally, only one pet is allowed per carrier. However, two pets of the same species (cats or dogs) that are between 8 weeks and 6 months old and each weigh less than 20 lbs (9.07 kg) may travel in the same kennel.
Your Carry-On Bag: As of a recent policy update, American Airlines allows passengers to bring both a pet carrier and a personal item OR a standard carry-on bag (but not both a carry-on and a personal item in addition to the pet carrier). The pet carrier does not count as your main carry-on item anymore, which is a welcome change for many pet owners!
Sub-heading 1.2: Pet as Checked Pet (Cargo)
Who is eligible? As of recent policy, 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 all other individuals, if your pet is too large for the cabin, they may need to travel via American Airlines Cargo, a separate service.
American Airlines Cargo (American PetEmbark®): If your pet is larger or doesn't meet in-cabin requirements, this is likely your option. This service transports pets in a temperature-controlled, pressurized, and oxygenated compartment.
Contact Early: For cargo travel, you'll need to contact American Airlines Cargo at least 48 hours prior to travel, or up to 10 days in advance for a booking request.
Kennel Requirements: Strict IATA (International Air Transport Association) Live Animal Regulations apply to cargo kennels. They must be escape-proof, well-ventilated on at least three (domestic) or four (international) sides, and provide enough space for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally. Wheels must be removed or inoperable.
Temperature Restrictions: There are strict temperature guidelines. Generally, American Airlines will not transport warm-blooded animals if the actual or forecasted temperature is outside a certain range (e.g., above 85°F/29.4°C or below 45°F/7°C). If temperatures are between 20-44°F, a veterinarian's acclimation letter is required. Always check these restrictions for your specific itinerary.
Breed Restrictions: Certain brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds of dogs and cats, as well as some historically aggressive breeds, are not accepted for travel in cargo due to respiratory risks.
Sub-heading 1.3: Service Animals
Important Distinction: Service animals are not considered pets and are permitted to fly in the cabin at no charge if they meet specific requirements set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).
Documentation: You must submit the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours prior to your flight, attesting to the animal's health, training, and behavior. Bring this form with you.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): As of a policy change, American Airlines no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals. ESAs are now considered pets, and all applicable pet fees and policies apply if you wish to travel with them.
Step 2: Make Your Pet Reservation – Don't Just Book Your Own Ticket!
Once you've determined how your pet will travel, the next critical step is to secure their spot. Remember, space for pets is limited!
Sub-heading 2.1: For In-Cabin Pets
Online or App: The easiest way to add a carry-on pet is online via aa.com or through the American Airlines mobile app.
Find your trip.
In the "Additional Services" or "Special Services" section, look for "Add carry-on pets."
Review and agree to the carry-on pet requirements.
Select the flights where you want your pet to travel.
Confirm your carry-on pet to complete the changes.
Call Reservations: If you encounter any issues online, or prefer speaking to someone, call American Airlines Reservations. It's always a good idea to confirm pet space availability directly with an agent, especially if your travel plans are complex.
Book Early! As mentioned, space is limited. Do not wait until the last minute to add your pet, as you might find all available pet slots are taken.
Sub-heading 2.2: For Cargo Pets (American PetEmbark®)
Contact American Airlines Cargo: This is a separate process from booking passenger tickets. You'll need to contact American Airlines Cargo directly to make a reservation for your pet. Their dedicated animal help desk can be reached at 1-800-227-4622 or by emailing PetEmbark@aa.com.
Booking Request Form: You can also often initiate a booking request via their online Animal Transportation Request form on the American Airlines Cargo website.
Step 3: Understand the Pet Fees – Know What You'll Pay
American Airlines charges a non-refundable fee for pets traveling as carry-ons or via cargo. These fees are per kennel, per way.
Sub-heading 3.1: In-Cabin Pet Fee
Standard Fee: For carry-on pets traveling within and between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, the fee is typically $125 per kennel, each way.
Stopovers: If your trip includes a voluntary stopover/connection of more than 4 hours, fees may apply for each connection segment. This means if you have a long layover, you might be charged an additional fee for the subsequent flight segment.
Note: American Airlines does not collect pet fees for flights operated by partner airlines, even if it has an American flight number. If your itinerary includes a codeshare flight, you'll need to check with the operating airline and pay their respective pet fee at their check-in counter.
Sub-heading 3.2: Checked Pet / Cargo Pet Fee
Varies by Destination and Size: Fees for transporting your pet with American Airlines Cargo (PetEmbark®) vary depending on the trip details, the size of the animal, and the kennel.
Confirmation: The exact fees will be confirmed at the time of booking with American Airlines Cargo. It's important to discuss this during your reservation call or inquiry.
Additional Charges: Be aware that additional charges may apply for comfort stops, kenneling, or customs clearance, especially for international cargo shipments.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents and Your Pet – The Nitty-Gritty Details
This step is arguably the most intensive, requiring careful attention to detail.
Sub-heading 4.1: Required Documentation
Health Certificate: For both in-cabin and cargo pets, you'll need a health certificate issued and signed by a licensed veterinarian.
It must be dated within 10 days from the animal's arrival at the destination.
It should state that your pet is free of infectious or contagious diseases and appears healthy enough for travel.
For international travel, an English translation may be required.
For round-trip domestic travel, the original certificate can be used for the return if the return is within 10 days of issuance. Otherwise, a new one is needed.
Rabies Vaccination Certificate: A copy, signed by a licensed veterinarian, is typically required.
Breed Verification Form: American Airlines requires a breed verification form for all cats and dogs, signed by a licensed veterinarian. If it's a mixed breed, the predominant breed should be noted.
Acknowledgement Forms: You may need to sign acknowledgments related to pet travel.
Acclimation Letter (for cargo, if applicable): If temperatures at any point on your itinerary are between 20-44°F, a signed and dated letter from your vet stating the exact lowest temperature your pet can be exposed to is required.
USDA APHIS Website: For detailed import/export requirements for specific countries, always consult the USDA's APHIS website.
Sub-heading 4.2: Kennel Preparation
In-Cabin Carrier:
Must be secure, padded, made of water-repellent material, and have nylon mesh ventilation on 3 or more sides.
Ensure your pet can stand up and turn around comfortably inside.
Place absorbent material (like a blanket or towel – no hay/straw) at the bottom.
Attach a tag with your name, address, and phone number.
Cargo Kennel:
Must be rigid plastic, metal, or wood with a metal grated door.
Adequate ventilation on 3 sides for domestic and 4 sides for international flights.
Secured with metal bolts or screws (snap closures require additional securing).
Clean with no offensive odors.
Two clean, empty dishes (food and water) must be attached inside, accessible without opening the door.
Do not sedate or tranquilize your pet for cargo travel, as this can be dangerous at altitude.
Sub-heading 4.3: Pet Preparation
Acclimation: Help your pet get comfortable with their carrier in the days or weeks leading up to the flight.
Food and Water: Offer your pet a light meal and water within 4 hours prior to dropping them off (for cargo) or heading to the airport (for in-cabin). Attach a small bag of food to the kennel.
Exercise: Give your pet plenty of exercise before travel to help them relax during the flight.
Identification: Ensure your pet has proper identification on their collar.
Step 5: Paying the Pet Fee – The Final Transaction
The actual payment of the pet fee usually happens at the airport.
Sub-heading 5.1: For In-Cabin Pets
At the Ticket Counter: When you arrive at the airport for your flight, proceed to the American Airlines ticket counter.
Payment Method: You will typically pay the $125 fee there. American Airlines accepts credit cards or paper vouchers. Cash or checks are generally not accepted for pet fees.
Verification: An agent will verify that your pet and kennel meet all the requirements before accepting the payment and allowing your pet to board.
Sub-heading 5.2: For Cargo Pets (American PetEmbark®)
At the Cargo Facility: You will drop off your pet at the American Airlines Cargo facility at the airport.
Payment: The payment for cargo services will be handled at the cargo facility. Fees are confirmed at the time of booking, but the actual payment usually occurs at drop-off.
Documentation Review: The cargo staff will review all your pet's documents and ensure the kennel meets all specifications before accepting the pet for transport and processing the payment.
Step 6: Day of Travel – Staying Calm and Organized
The big day has arrived! Staying organized will make the process smoother for both you and your pet.
Sub-heading 6.1: Arrive Early
Plenty of Time: Arrive at the airport well in advance of your scheduled departure. For in-cabin pets, allow extra time for the check-in process. For cargo pets, American Airlines Cargo specifies drop-off times (e.g., at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight for checked pets).
Sub-heading 6.2: Final Checks and Procedures
In-Cabin: At the ticket counter, present all required documents. The agent will confirm your pet's suitability for in-cabin travel and process your payment. Your pet must remain in their carrier at all times while in the airport and on the aircraft.
Cargo: At the cargo facility, present all health certificates and required documentation. An agent will complete a checklist with you. You'll need to sign a written certification that your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours of drop-off. Releasable cable ties will be attached to the kennel door.
Sub-heading 6.3: During the Flight
In-Cabin: Ensure your pet's carrier is placed securely under the seat in front of you. Your pet must remain inside the carrier for the entire duration of the flight.
Cargo: While you can't be with your pet, you can often track their journey online using the air waybill number provided by American Airlines Cargo.
Step 7: Pet Pickup – Reunion Time!
Upon arrival, reuniting with your pet is the final step.
Sub-heading 7.1: In-Cabin
Your pet will disembark with you.
Sub-heading 7.2: Cargo
Pickup Location: Pets traveling via cargo are typically available for pickup at the American Airlines Cargo facility at your destination, usually about an hour after flight arrival.
Identification: Have your air waybill number and identification ready.
Customs: For international arrivals, allow extra time for customs clearance. Additional handling and customs fees may apply.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about American Airlines pet fees and travel, with quick answers to help you plan!
How to add a carry-on pet to my American Airlines reservation?
You can add a carry-on pet online via aa.com or the American Airlines app by finding your trip and selecting "Add carry-on pets" in the "Additional Services" section, or by calling American Airlines Reservations.
How to find out the exact dimensions for a carry-on pet carrier on American Airlines?
For mainline flights, non-collapsible kennels shouldn't exceed 19 x 13 x 9 inches (48 x 33 x 22 cm). For regional American Eagle flights, it's 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm). Soft-sided carriers are recommended as they can be slightly larger but must still fit under the seat. Always contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions for your specific aircraft.
How to pay the pet fee for American Airlines in-cabin travel?
The pet fee for in-cabin travel (typically $125 each way) is paid at the American Airlines ticket counter at the airport on your day of travel using a credit card or paper voucher.
How to book a pet for cargo travel with American Airlines?
To book a pet for cargo travel (via American PetEmbark®), you must contact American Airlines Cargo directly at 1-800-227-4622 or email PetEmbark@aa.com. It is recommended to book a minimum of 24 hours and a maximum of 10 days prior to travel.
How to know if my pet needs a health certificate for American Airlines travel?
Yes, a health certificate is required for both in-cabin and cargo pets. It must be issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of your pet's arrival at the destination.
How to confirm if my pet's breed is restricted by American Airlines for travel?
American Airlines has a restricted breeds list, especially for cargo travel, due to health and safety concerns (e.g., brachycephalic breeds). You can find this information on the American Airlines Cargo website or by contacting their animal help desk.
How to track my pet's journey if they are traveling via American Airlines Cargo?
If you've booked your pet through American PetEmbark®, you will receive an air waybill number. You can use this number on the American Airlines Cargo website's online tracking tool to monitor your pet's status and receive notifications.
How to handle long layovers when traveling with a pet on American Airlines?
For in-cabin pets, be aware that voluntary stopovers/connections of more than 4 hours may incur additional pet fees for subsequent flight segments. For cargo, American Airlines Cargo may arrange comfort stops or overnight kenneling for longer itineraries, potentially with additional charges.
How to prepare my pet's kennel for American Airlines cargo travel?
The kennel must be rigid (plastic, metal, or wood), escape-proof, well-ventilated on at least 3-4 sides, have a metal door, and be large enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down naturally. All wheels must be removed or inoperable. Attach empty food and water dishes inside.
How to know if my emotional support animal (ESA) can fly for free on American Airlines?
As of recent policy changes, American Airlines no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals. ESAs are now considered pets and are subject to all applicable pet fees and policies for in-cabin travel. Only fully trained service dogs (as defined by DOT regulations) are permitted to fly in the cabin free of charge.
